Read: John 6:1-14
Have the people sit down. (v. 10)
I tend to be more like Philip than Andrew. As I look over the tasks on my to-do list or consider the responsibilities of my leadership role, I can be overcome with inadequacy and see the impossibility of accomplishing what needs to be done. When Jesus asked Philip where they could buy bread to feed the multitudes, Philip’s quick math didn’t add up: “Two hundred denarii would not buy enough” (John 6:7). He froze in the face of what seemed impossible.
Jesus, of course, was not flustered. He had a plan all along. He wanted to teach Philip that he was able to supply all that was needed, even more. Andrew didn’t have much more confidence in the little boy’s lunch, but he did bring what meager resources he had to Jesus. Together, Andrew and Philip learned the truth, as the apostle Paul prayed, that God is “able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think” (Eph. 3:20). The resources of Jesus are without limit.
I take three things from this passage as I look over my to-do list. First, God is not surprised by the overwhelming nature of the mission he calls us to. Second, our work is not to get lost in the anxiety of what we think is impossible but to look for what God has already provided. Finally, offer thanks to God and do the next thing. —Jon Opgenorth
As you pray, ask God to show you his provision for what concerns you today.
About the Author
Rev. Jon Opgenorth serves as president of Words of Hope. Previously, he served for 18 years as senior pastor at Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, Iowa. In preparation for ministry, he received a BA in Religion from Northwestern College, and an MDiv from Fuller Theological Seminary.
