What Jesus Did! 'Resources?' — Mark 8:4

Friday, May 10, 2024

[After Jesus said the large crowd needed something to eat, his] disciples replied, "How are we supposed to find enough food to feed them out here in the wilderness?"
— Mark 8:4 NLT

Key Thought

Jesus' followers were basically saying that they didn't have the resources to meet the needs of the people around them. Sound familiar? So often, we don't pursue opportunities to serve others because we lack the resources. Clearly, we should count the cost before we begin a ministry so we won't have to pull back half way through our commitment. However, we must minister in situations that extend beyond our ability to meet people's needs. Doing so allows us the opportunity to see the Lord at work as he displays his power where our strength, resources, and insight are so limited. In our time of weakness and insufficiency, we should realize that all effective service is done by the Lord's power and grace.

Today's Prayer

Father, please forgive me for having such small dreams of serving others. Open my eyes to the needs around me. Please show me the proper balance between responsible planning and having the courage to step out in faith trusting in you to provide the resources that are needed to bless those in need. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 2 Corinthians 3:4-6
  • 2 Corinthians 12:6-10
  • Ephesians 3:20-21

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 8:4 NLT — [After Jesus said the large crowd needed something to eat, his] disciples replied, "How are we supposed to find enough food to feed them out here in the wilderness?"

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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