Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked, “You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered" (Matthew 16:8-10)?
Our Father in heaven, You are the giver of all, the supplier of every need. Forgive us for our "little faith" that keeps us preoccupied with" having no bread" in spite of ample evidence of Your provision. Teach us to be thankful, and to focus on what You provide instead of what we "lack." Give us the trust and the patience to gratefully accept from You our daily bread.
As You bless us, turn our eyes to the needs of others. Teach us how to willingly entrust our loaves and fish to Your powerful hands with full confidence in Your perfect economy—Your multiplier blessings. Teach us how to be good stewards of Your resources. Teach us how to follow the example of Jesus. "Nor wanting, nor wasting", Lord, You rule in might.
Lead us away from the temptation to any kind of...greed—Your word tells us that this is "improper for God's holy people" (Ephesians 5:3). Help us to minister to the needs of others from a heart of love and compassion, trusting in Your unfailing word that "good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice" (Psalm 112:5).
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