How can we apply Jesus' example of gratitude in Matthew 15:35 to our lives? The Scene in Matthew 15:35–36 • “And He instructed the crowd to sit down on the ground.” (Matthew 15:35) • “Taking the seven loaves and the fish, He gave thanks and broke them…” (Matthew 15:36) Jesus pauses before the miracle to thank the Father, teaching that gratitude is never optional, even when surrounded by pressing needs. Why Jesus’ Gratitude Matters • Confirms His continual fellowship with the Father (John 11:41) • Models obedience to God’s will (“give thanks in every circumstance,” 1 Thessalonians 5:18) • Shows trust that the Father has already provided, though the provision has not yet multiplied Principles for Today • Gratitude precedes provision—faith thanks God before the answer arrives • Gratitude redirects focus from shortage to the Source • Gratitude opens the door for God’s power to work through ordinary resources Practical Ways to Mirror His Thankfulness 1. Pause before meals, projects, or meetings to thank God specifically for what is in hand 2. Keep a written record of daily blessings—small or large 3. Vocalize thanks with family or friends, multiplying faith the way bread was multiplied 4. Replace complaints with praise; when tempted to grumble, quote Psalm 103:2: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His kind deeds.” 5. Incorporate thanksgiving into prayer (Philippians 4:6) rather than listing requests only 6. Treat every provision as sanctified by thanksgiving (1 Timothy 4:4-5) Benefits of Cultivating Gratitude • Deepened awareness of God’s presence • Strengthened faith to face future needs • Increased joy and contentment (Colossians 3:17) • Testimony to others that God is faithful Closing Thoughts Jesus’ simple act of giving thanks amid scarcity invites us to view every resource through the lens of divine sufficiency. When we consistently echo His gratitude, we position ourselves to witness God multiply what we place in His hands. |
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