“GIVING THANKS”
EXPERIENCING UNUSUAL MIRACLES: Learning from the
Miracle of the Five Loaves and Two Fish
Part 2 of 3
After receiving
the five loaves and two fish from the boy that would be used to feed the
multitude who followed HIM, what did Jesus do?
“And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given
thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting
down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted.” (John 6:11, NKJV)
There are 2 valuable lessons that we can learn through
this incident:
1. No matter how much we have, give thanks to God.
Jesus teaches us to have the right response for all the blessings
that come from God. Though Andrew said, “What are the five loaves and two fish
among so many?” In fact, Jesus with all that was, took the loaves and fish,
gave thanks, and then He distributed them.
Sometimes we think, ‘Lord, my income is so little! What is it
compared to my great need? Let’s respond correctly! Don’t grumble; instead,
give thanks often. When we give thanks for all the blessings that HE gives us,
we will be amazed to see how HE multiplies and supplies our needs, even
abundantly.
“In everything give thanks;
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18,
NKJV)
2. Hope in God with thanksgiving.
Giving thanks to God is one of the evidences that we surrender our
lives to Him; it is the evidence that we hope in God alone.
Psalms 42:5, NIV: “Why, my
soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I
will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
When we begin to experience the pressure of needs, problems,
struggles, put our hope in God by giving thanks to Him. Because He is our
Savior and our God.
“Be anxious for nothing,
but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your
requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all
understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
(Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV)
Action:
Do you want to
experience unusual miracles? Give thanks! Stop grumbling and complaining;
instead, hope and depend on the LORD, our Savior and our God.
