How can we trust God for our needs, as shown in Matthew 17:27? Setting the Scene: Matthew 17:27 Matthew 17:27 says, “Go to the sea, cast a hook, and take the first fish… in its mouth is a coin.” A tax is due, the disciples have no money, and Jesus meets the need in a way no one could predict. What the Miracle Shows about God’s Provision • He knows every need before we voice it. • He commands creation itself to serve His purposes. • He provides right on time—neither early nor late. • He supplies specifically for “Me and you,” meeting personal as well as shared obligations. • He preserves our witness; paying the tax removed any stumbling block (cf. v. 27 “so that we may not offend them”). Principles for Trusting God with Our Needs • Expect the unexpected—God is free to use means we could never invent. • Obedience positions us to receive; Peter still had to go, cast, and open the fish’s mouth. • God’s provision is sufficient, not excessive; one coin met the exact amount. • Material needs matter to Him because they affect our ability to serve unhindered. • Trust grows from remembering past faithfulness—each answered need is a fresh reminder. Supporting Scriptures • Philippians 4:19—“My God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory.” • Psalm 37:25—“I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” • Matthew 6:26—“Look at the birds… your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more?” • 2 Corinthians 9:8—“God is able to make all grace abound to you, so you have all sufficiency.” Practical Takeaways for Today • List current needs and thank Him in advance for meeting each one. • Act in faith on clear instructions (work, give, plan) while relying on His outcome. • Recall specific times He provided before; rehearse them aloud to strengthen trust. • Refuse anxiety; needs are His responsibility when we seek His kingdom first (Matthew 6:33). • Share testimonies of provision—Peter surely told others about the coin, and our stories encourage the church. |
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