Feeding The Five Thousand

FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND

Matt. 14:13-21; Selected Scriptures

1.      Removing ourselves from life-threatening situations is necessary in order to be used effectively by God (v. 13; 1 Sam. 19:10; Prov. 27:12; Jn. 10:17-18).

2.      Sympathy for others displays the character of Christ (v. 14; Heb. 4:15; Jn. 11:33).

3.      God sometimes will put us in situations to test our faith & dependence on Him (vv. 15-17; Jn. 6:5-6).

4.      God providentially blesses people through people (v. 17; Jn. 6:9).

5.      God uses the seemingly insignificant for His glory (v. 17; Jn. 6:9).

6.      God uses what we bring to Him by faith (v. 18; 1 Kgs. 17:9-16).

7.      Serving others requires preparation & order (v. 19a; Lk. 9:14; 1 Cor. 14:33, 40).

8.      We are to be thankful for whatever God provides (v. 19b; Mk. 6:41a; Lk. 9:16a; Jn. 6:11;   1 Thes. 5:18).

9.      Serving others requires care, compassion & commitment (v. 19c).

10.  When God satisfies our needs, He satisfies completely & perfectly (v. 20a; Psa. 107:9; 147:14b; Jn. 6:11b-12).

11.  God provides for us as we provide for others (vv. 20-21b; Mk. 6:43).

Application

1.      Thank God for the “little” you have & trust Him to provide the rest (Prov. 3:5-6).

2.      Praise God for blessing people to be a blessing to you (Acts 28:10).

3.      Never limit God’s power to work on your behalf (Mk. 9:23b; Lk. 1:37).