One day Jesus faced a huge problem. More than 5000 people were before him and they were tired and hungry and the only resources available were five small loaves (probably bun sized pita bread) and a couple of small fish. As they were currently gathered in a remote area the disciples told Jesus to send the crowd away so they could find food and lodging for the night in the nearby villages and farms.
In other words the disciples saw the need of the crowd but, due to physical circumstances, wanted them to meet their own need as the disciples were unable to see how it could be met otherwise.
In other words the disciples saw the need of the crowd but, due to physical circumstances, wanted them to meet their own need as the disciples were unable to see how it could be met otherwise.
What was Jesus response to this impossible situation? “Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.” (Luke 9:16-17 NIV)
God knows who we are, what resources we have available, and the true nature of the need before us. God has promised to supply all our needs so we can share generously with others. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19 NIV) Why give thanks? It’s one way to acknowledge the truth about God’s provision for us, and God has promised that if we know the truth, the truth will set us free. As we practice an attitude of gratitude, we find contentment in the day before us, we find peace with God, and we grow in stability and security as we recognize that the life we’ve always wanted has been there all along, right within our grasp. God has always been with us, offering to protect us and to provide for us.
When we focus on how wonderful God actually is, and how generously and lovingly He has been present with us, working on our behalf, we will experience more joy and satisfaction in life than we ever thought possible. We will join with people who through thousands of years have learned the benefit of giving thanks. Whether they were the people of God in the Old Testament, Pilgrims in North America, or old timers in AA, they are those who have practiced an attitude of gratitude and have shown us a known and safe way forward. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT)
©2014 Partners in Hope
More information on this and other related topics @ www.partnersinhope.ca resources
Audio for Thanksgiving Impossible Situations
Recent Meditations
Giving Hope
Partners in Hope is supported wholly by our friends and community. We are thankful to everyone who partners with us to help bring hope to the discouraged, hurting, and hopeless.