What can we learn about gratitude from Jesus giving thanks in Matthew 15:36? The Setting: Matthew 15:36 “Then He took the seven loaves and the fish, and after giving thanks, He broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people.” Key Observations • A real, historical moment where Jesus tangibly feeds four thousand men, plus women and children (Matthew 15:38). • Jesus pauses to give thanks before the miracle unfolds, underscoring gratitude as an intentional act, not an afterthought. • The text presents a literal sequence—take, thank, break, give—revealing the rhythm of thankful living. • Gratitude is directed to the Father, showing proper order: acknowledgment precedes provision. What Jesus’ Thanksgiving Teaches Us • Gratitude precedes God’s provision – Jesus thanks before the bread multiplies (cf. John 11:41). • Gratitude recognizes the Source – Seven loaves and a few fish look insignificant, yet Jesus treats them as gifts from the Father (James 1:17). • Gratitude unlocks participation in God’s work – After giving thanks, He involves the disciples in distribution; thanksgiving becomes the doorway to ministry involvement. • Gratitude anchors faith in God’s sufficiency – By thanking first, Jesus models confidence that the Father will supply more than enough (Philippians 4:19). • Gratitude magnifies God, not the need – The crowd’s hunger is real, yet focus shifts from scarcity to the Giver (Psalm 107:1). Supporting Scriptures • John 6:11—Jesus “gave thanks” before feeding five thousand. • 1 Thessalonians 5:18—“Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” • Colossians 3:17—Do everything “giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” • Psalm 136:1—“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.” Daily Applications • Begin tasks with intentional thanks, entrusting outcomes to God. • Thank God for resources at hand, however small; watch Him multiply impact. • Involve others after expressing gratitude—thankfulness fosters teamwork and generosity. • Shift conversations from what is lacking to who God is; gratitude reframes perspective. • Record daily provisions in a journal, echoing Jesus’ example, to cultivate ongoing praise. Living It Out Practicing gratitude the way Jesus does in Matthew 15:36 transforms ordinary moments into opportunities for God’s extraordinary provision. A thankful heart recognizes every loaf and fish as a gift, trusts the Father’s faithfulness, and invites others to share in the blessing. |
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