Multiplying The Loaves And Fish In Your Life

“I can’t do this!”

Hardly a day goes by when I don’t feel the urge to say these words. Sometimes I’ll say it verbally and other times I’ll just think it, but the feeling is the same. I often feel so inadequate as a husband, father, writer, speaker, disciple and human being. There are so many things I struggle with – making decisions, controlling my tongue, dealing with crises, being kind to others, etc. For the most part, I feel unequipped to deal with just about everything life throws at me.

The disciples understood this feeling. One day when Jesus was ministering to five thousand people, they were concerned that the crowd was getting hungry and told Jesus to dismiss them so they could get something to eat. Surprisingly, Jesus told them to give the people some food. Their response is totally understandable:

They said to him, “We only have five loaves here and two fish.” (Matthew 14:17)

I’m sure you won’t be surprised by what happened next. Jesus asked for the five loaves and two fish, multiplied them and gave the food to the disciples. There was more than enough to feed five thousand people.

It’s absolutely true that we don’t have what it takes to be a good spouse or even a decent person. On our own, we can’t break free from sinful habits or remain faithful to Christ. We aren’t strong enough to deal with an extended illness, job loss or the sudden death of a family member. The disciples didn’t have what they needed either, but look at what happened when they did their best and let Jesus do the rest.

Let’s pray together…

Jesus, I am reminded constantly of just how weak I am. It seems that I struggle to do almost anything. Even though the world tells me that I should be strong and self-sufficient, I can’t handle it. Without your help, I can do nothing. Please help me to deal with my daily problems. Just like you fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish, you can multiply my small works and do great things. Thank you, Lord. In your powerful name I pray. Amen.