Today’s Reading: John 6:1-13
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“Jesus said to Philip, ‘Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?’ He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do.”
* * * * *
Jesus went away with his followers for some time alone. We all need that. If you don’t come apart, you’ll come apart. From Jesus’ human perspective, it was true for him too.
As Jesus and the disciples tried to rest, the masses figured out where they were. More than 10,000 men, women, and children came. This happened miles away from any place to secure food. Jesus and the disciples knew they’d eventually need to feed the crowd.
That’s what prompted Jesus to ask Philip about where to buy food. He was from the area. He was the appropriate person to ask.
But Jesus had an ulterior motive when he asked this question. He already knew the answer. He already knew the solution to the problem. His resources are limitless.
Jesus asked this question to test Philip’s faith. It was not yet fully developed. There were lessons he needed to learn.
Yes, Philip had seen Jesus perform multiple miracles. But he still didn’t possess a fully orbed faith. That’s why he needed to take the test. It was the only way he would realize faith truly existed in his heart.
Jesus does the same with you. It’s not because he enjoys placing you in difficult situations. It’s because he wants to develop your faith. You may say with your words that you believe in him. But it’s only in difficult situations that you can discover if you really trust him.
Teachers know this truth. They give tests to make sure their students know the material. Similarly, Jesus gives his disciples (the word means “pupils”) tests to help them grow in their faith. Without faith it is impossible to please him. He loves great faith.
Do you have great faith today? When his tests come to you, do you pass them with flying colors?
Are those words of whining and complaining he hears pouring forth from you during this time of testing? Are you suggesting he doesn’t really care for you? Your words show what’s in your heart. They mirror a heart of unbelief.
Receive the Lord’s tests of faith with great joy—even when they are of the “pop quiz” variety. Though he is silent when giving the tests (as all teachers are), he is administering all of them. They will help mature your heart of faith.
When the test comes, speak to the impossible situation in your life. Tell it to be lifted up and thrown into the heart of the sea. Really believe it. Don’t doubt. And see it happen.
His heart’s desire is that you pass the test.
That’s what’s most important to him.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]