Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- June 28, 2010
“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?” Matthew 16:8-9
Temporary amnesia over Almighty God’s faithfulness can strike even the most faithful. Jesus can heal and provide one day, and by the next day those who witnessed His miraculous provision act like He is unable to repeat His resourcefulness. The spiritual nature of Christ’s work can easily be forgotten or dismissed by human nature’s frail and finicky faith.
“But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel” (Psalm 106:13).
We can see Him answer prayer one day and by the next day grow impatient in our need for more prayer. The Lord led our troubled teenager through their selfish season and then we stress out when their younger sibling starts to show signs of self-centeredness. God provided when our financial fatigue almost caused us to collapse, so He can provide again.
“They forgot the God who saved them, who had done great things in Egypt, miracles in the land of Ham and awesome deeds by the Red Sea” (Psalm 106:21-22).
God’s track record of faithfulness can be trusted. His recurring acts of righteousness show up at just the right time. There is no need for you to strive or stress over the next steps He has for you. Yes, seek godly advice and receive daily the counsel of Christ through His holy word, the Bible. But rest in and be reassured that the Lord is faithful.
When you forget—He reminds you. When you are weak—He is strong. When you fall down—He lifts you up. When you are afraid—He reassures you. When you are hungry—He feeds you. When you are tired—He gives you rest. When you are in trouble—He forgives and loves you. When you are in doubt—He reminds you that Christ is in you. Thus, teach and tell others of His provisions. Trust His track record of faithfulness.
“He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands” (Psalm 78:5-7)
How has the Lord shown His faithful provision in my life, my work and my family?
Related Readings: Psalm 86:2; Isaiah 12:2; John 14:1; Romans 15:13
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
