There is a well-known quote that says, “When times are tough, friends are few.”
The last few years have seen an increase in difficult circumstances and we can either respond with a survival, self preservation mindset or we can see the opportunity presented to us to trust God.
There is a powerful story in the New Testament that highlights the simple faith of someone with seemingly little and the response of a faithful and generous God.
The setting takes place where there are thousands of people who came to hear Jesus speak. They were there because they were looking for hope, for a solution, or simply to get their immediate needs met.
The atmosphere called for intervention. A community of people awaiting, anticipating something from Jesus created a setting for disaster or opportunity.
So when the disciples realised that people were hungry X you can just imagine the crying children X they asked Jesus for a solution. His response is probably not what they wanted to hear: You feed them! (Mark 6:37).
We know that a young boy offered what he had: five loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus then steps in and the rest is a lesson in trusting God.
What can we take away from this? Jesus highlighted the fact that we were designed to find solutions (Proverbs 25:2). When God is invited into any situation, miracles are possible. Our generosity, our willingness in a difficult or impossible situation attracts the provision and power of God.
You might think that you do not have much to offer. But that is not true!
It is during times like these that we are forced to take who we are and what we have, and entrust it to God. Whether you are a widow with your last flour and oil, a boy with just enough lunch for himself, a family who is struggling just to get through the month, or someone who just feels they have nothing to give. Your life counts.
I am not just talking about finances. Your love, your time and your talents count.
Give yourself to God and see what is possible with a life surrendered to Him.
- Past Emmanuel Archontakis is of the Kingdom Ministries of Christ.
