Manna for Your Morning

They began to discuss this among themselves, saying, “He said that because we did not bring any bread.” But Jesus, aware of this, said, “You men of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves the fact that you have no bread?” — Matthew 16:7-8 (NASB1995) It takes little faith to look at and discuss what we don’t have. Instead of focusing on current external conditions, remember the goodness of Yahweh and His faithfulness to provide for His children. Understand the depth and breadth of the love and compassion the Lord has for us. Jesus asked His disciples: “Do you not yet understand nor remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets you picked up? Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many large baskets you picked up?” (Matthew 16:9-10 NASB1995) Recall the good things our great God has already done. May we be people of great faith, like the centurion (Roman officer), in Matthew 8:7-9. When Jesus said He would go and heal his servant, the centur...

Jesus’ disciples went with him as he left in a boat. Suddenly, a severe storm came across the sea. The waves were covering the boat. Yet, Jesus was sleeping. — Matthew 8:23-24 (GW) The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. (Matthew 8:25-26 NIV) The disciples were fearful because they were focusing on the conditions of the storm. Jesus was sleeping because He trusted the Father. If we are in the boat with Jesus, we too can have perfect peace when severe storms come our way, by trusting God. His Presence is our protection. Instead of looking at the winds and the waves (circumstances), keep your eyes on Jesus, the Champion who initiates and perfects our faith. (Hebrews 12:2 NLT)

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?” — Luke 12:27-28 (NLT) “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.” (Luke 12:29-30 NLT)

“…Stop doubting and believe.” — John 20:27 (NIV) In Exodus 15:1-21, the Israelites were dancing and singing praises to God because He led them through the sea on dry ground and drowned their enemies. In Exodus 15:24, just three days into the wilderness they were complaining, then in Exodus 17:7 (NKJV) the children of Israel were saying, “ Is the LORD among us or not? ” Wow! How quickly can we see God do a mighty work in one situation and then when faced with another difficulty retreat back to a place of little faith? May we never doubt. It is a tool of the enemy. Doubt is deadly. It is a slow leak in the balloon of hope. With doubt, dreams die and hope fades away. Doubt paralyzes faith. James 1:6 (NIV) says, the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. If you are constantly blown and tossed by the wind, it will be difficult to reach your desired destination. Know that God is with you and He is for you. He intentionally knit you together in your mot...

Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? — 2 Corinthians 13:5a (NKJV) Let us examine our hearts. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified (Romans 10:10a). Do you have great faith like the centurion who said to Jesus, “…but only speak a word, and my servant will be healed.” (Matthew 8:8). Or are you more like the disciples who panicked and awoke Jesus, in the midst of a storm. He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” (Matthew 8:26). Jesus, in His compassion took care of both. Even if you had little faith in the past, it's not too late, faith is now. Faith is for the present time, today. “Do not be afraid; only believe.” (Mark 5:26). “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” (Mark 9:23).