How Indeed?

Daily Reading:  Mark 8

His disciples answered him, "How can one feed these people with bread here in this desolate place?" (Mark 8.4)

Devotional Thought: “How?” indeed!  Even after they had witnessed Jesus feeding more people (5000 men),  was this question legitimate?  Yes, and for several reasons:

First, they did not assume that Jesus would always work the same way.  They said, “How in this place…”  They recognized that this situation was new and different and might require that Jesus do something new and different.  We should always be open to God doing a new thing.  Assuming he is going to solve today’s problems with yesterday's solutions is a sure way to miss out on the power and blessings of God.

Also, they did not presume upon the grace of Jesus.  Instead of demanding, they humbled themselves and asked for help.  Just because God has helped us in the past does not mean that he will now.  Yes, God’s work on our behalf yesterday will build our faith, but that simply leads us to be bold in asking God for help today.  Never presume upon the grace of God but maintain a humble approach to God. Then, ask as a child.

Third, their question made room for them to work with Jesus in accomplishing it. "How…"  In essence they were saying, “OK, Jesus, tell us how and we will go do it.”  While it did have an element of desperation in it, at least it was not a flat out statement of disbelief.  Their question seems to at least probe the mind of Jesus to discover his will and partner with him.

So, when you are faced with finding a solution to a problem – better yet, when Jesus tells you to solve a problem: look for God to do a new thing, humble yourself and ask, work with Jesus in solving the problem!

Prayer: Lord, I am needy, and I am surrounded by needy people.  Help me not to assume I know the answers or presume upon your grace.  Rather, help me to make room for you and I to work together in meeting these needs.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: 6.1-5

1 O LORD, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath.

2 Be gracious to me, O LORD, for I am languishing; heal me, O LORD, for my bones are troubled.

3 My soul also is greatly troubled. But you, O LORD--how long?

4 Turn, O LORD, deliver my life; save me for the sake of your steadfast love.

5 For in death there is no remembrance of you; in Sheol who will give you praise?