Steps to Problem Solving

Matthew 14:13–21
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For more than 20 years Professor Edwin R. Keedy of the of Pennsylvania Law School used to start his first class by putting two figures on the blackboard 4 & 2.Then would ask, “What’s the solution?” One student would call out, “Six.” Another would say “ … More

Problem Solving

When Jesus heard the news of John’s murder He quickly withdrew from that area and went by ship to a lonely place (v. 13). The people watched where Jesus and His disciples were going and a great crowd walked along the shore and met Him when He landed (v. 14). Although Jesus desperately needed rest the multitudes touched His heart. Compassion is God’s natural response to human suffering. Jesus had gone to a remote place to get alone, but when the crowds followed Him, He ministered to them and refused to send them away.

When evening came the disciples wanted to send the crowds away because they were in a remote place and had nothing to feed so many people (v. 15). Certainly they knew He was powerful enough to meet the need and yet they did not turn to Him for help. This is so much like many of God’s people today. For some reason, it is never the right time or place for God to work. Note the steps that Jesus taught His disciples that we need to take in solving problems (vv. 16-21):

Start with what you have - Andrew found a lad who had a small lunch.
Give what you have to Jesus - The boy was willing to give up his lunch to Jesus.
Obey what He commands - The disciples had the people sit down and they took the pieces and distributed them. As His servants, we are “distributors”, not “manufacturers”.
Conserve the results - After the people were fed all they wanted, the left over pieces were carefully collected so that nothing was wasted.

Application

What do I have to offer to the Lord? Is there any conflict between what I want to do in life and what the Lord wants me to do in life? If so how can this be resolved?

Matthew 14:13-21 (English Standard Version)

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