Mark 8: 5 And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? And they said, Seven.6 And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people. 7 And they had a few small fishes: and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. 8 So they did eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken meat that was left seven baskets. 9 And they that had eaten were about four thousand: and he sent them away.
Before Jesus fed the 5,000 men, probably a crowd of 15-20 thousand counting women and children, he fed the 4,000 in this passage here. The multitude has to be commended. They wanted to hear the Master. They believed who Jesus was by his teaching and wanted to follow him and learn. They left their homes and followed him through the vicinity for 3 days. It was too far for them to go back home, so they stayed all night. When Jesus began teaching again the next morning they listened and followed again. Oh that we’d believe and follow Jesus like that!
The people didn’t pack food. The disciples had loaves and a few small fish. Jesus saw how hungry the people were but they weren’t going anywhere. Lord help us stick with the Lord like they did. Stick with Jesus and he’ll take care of us. We can’t go more than a few hours without eating; these people had gone 3 days. Jesus knew if he sent them away they would faint along the way. We will too if we don’t stick with Jesus. Whatever your needs, remember Jesus cares.
Jesus asked the disciples how many loaves they had and was told 7. He took them and gave one command. Everyone was to sit down. Sometimes the Lord has to sit us down for us to understand what it is to serve the Lord. Jesus was thankful for something to give, something to be used to feed the people. All Jesus wants is someone ready to give something. Are you ready? Jesus gave thanks and broke it. He then gave it to his disciples to give to the people. They all ate and were filled.
It wouldn’t be long until he would break bread again and go to Calvary. He’d give his all for us so that a Savior would be provided and our souls fed. Give. Yield. Turn your little bit over to the Lord. He’ll bless and use you. Are you hungry? Give your little bit to Jesus. You will be filled.
Adwolfe Freewill Baptist Church 