Point of Inspiration: Devotionals for Personal and Corporate Worship
Robert D. Pace
Jesus knew the solution before asking the question: “Philip, where can we find enough bread to feed this crowd” (John 6:5)? How would Philip answer? Although he had watched Christ work many miracles, the challenge to feed 5000 hungry men (“besides the women and children) seemed beyond belief. Thus, Philip lamented: “[Lord,] Eight month’s wages would not buy enough bread for each one to have a bite” (7). Isn’t it strange that a mighty Apostle perceived the problem being greater than his Omnipotent Lord? But don’t be too judgmental because few people can plead exemption from doubting God.
Moments later, Andrew stumbled into the scene. He found a boy with five loaves and two fish, but even while presenting this youngster to the Master Andrew seems embarrassed and blurts out: “But . . . what is this . . . for so many people” (9)? Questions mounted; answers faded. But from the start, this scene shows the significance of questions. You see, crisis creates questions. But doesn’t much of life do the same?
The Bible records 3,294 questions. The Four Gospels contain 522 and, by far, Jesus asked the most. It’s not coincidental that the monumental moments of Christ’s life emerged with monumental questions. And there’s an obvious reason God has permitted this. It’s because Jesus is the Answer! This wondrous event climaxes with Jesus taking, blessing, and distributing the loaves and fish and having plenty left over! Thank God, that in every situation Christ is sufficient! He answers lack with plenty; sorrow with gladness; sickness with health; blindness with sight; and death with a resurrection. But remember, as the Bible discloses, answers are often preceded with questions: “Why do the nations rage and the people imagine a vain thing” (Psalm 2:1)? “Why are you downcast, O my soul” (Psalm 43:5)? “How long, O Lord” (Psalm 6:3)? “Teacher, do You not care that we perish” (Mark 4:38)? Back and forth the questions flow throughout the Bible and throughout our lives. Thus, if you are sincere about getting an answer from “The Answer,” dare to question him! That’s because your questions don’t push God away they pull you in!
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