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When the disciples reached the other side of the sea, they realized that they had forgotten to bring bread. Jesus said to them, ‘Watch out and be on your guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ They began to discuss this among themselves, saying, ‘He said that because we did not bring bread.’ But Jesus, aware of this, said, ‘You men of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves that you have no bread? Do you still not understand or remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you picked up? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many large baskets you picked up? How is it that you fail to understand that I was not talking to you about bread?’”
(Matthew 16:5-11a Amplified Bible, AMP).
The apostles’ minds are set on the earthly bread. Jesus is wanting to teach them spiritual things -- to turn their attention to the Kingdom of God, but the apostles’ minds are set on their earthly circumstances, their earthly needs, their bellies. Jesus reminds them of how He had taken care of the needs of thousands supernaturally, on multiple occasions, in abundance, and remarked on their lack of faith. They had seen with their own eyes the loving care of the all-powerful and living God, yet they fretted about what they would eat!
Have you ever been so focused on your earthly circumstances or needs that you have forgotten about the supernatural, loving, faithful God we serve? There are moments I have been so focused on my concerns, weaknesses, and emotions that I have completely taken my focus off Jesus. We are not alone in this struggle! Even the apostles battled with being overly concerned with the things of this world.
Remember that Jesus will take care of every need and circumstance of your life. Refocus your attention back on the Bread of Life. Let Him remind you of times He has taken care of you in the past -- times of provision, protection, healing, an end to suffering, joy, hope, and blessing. Choose to trust in Him completely in all things and allow Him to show you the deeper things of His glorious kingdom where you can rest in His love. He awaits you!
- Gina Westlake
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