A Provocative Question

After seeing Jesus healing the sick, a large crowd had followed Him to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. Desiring to spend time with His disciples, Jesus “went up on the mountain” (v. 3). Still the crowds followed, seemingly unconcerned for their practical need for food. But Jesus had not forgotten.

He turned to Philip and asked, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?” Here we see how Jesus wanted Philip (and the other disciples) to face the situation and think through the options. We’re told that Jesus asked this question “to test him, for He Himself knew what He was intending to do” (v. 6).

This was a test to evaluate his maturity and discernment, and Philip’s response revealed that he still was dominated by human reasoning: “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, for everyone to receive a little” (v. 7).

The real miracle only began to take shape after Andrew reported to Jesus, “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish.” Even so, Andrew was not convinced that this would make a difference: “What are these for so many people?” (vs. 8-9)

But this simple act was all that Jesus needed to perform the miracle. He blessed the loaves and fish, and then the disciples distributed them among the people. Everyone was fully satisfied, and there was an abundant supply left over (vs. 10-14).

Today, remember that Jesus wants to work in the same way in your life. As you face challenges, realize that He may be giving you a test. Are you spiritually mature? What is your frame of reference? Are you primarily guided by the flesh or by the Spirit? Are you walking by faith or by sight? Are you willing to step out in faith and trust Him, recognizing that He can do anything? He wants to do miracles in your life!