Feelings of Faltering: Strengthening our Faith –by Marc MacArthur

Our faith is a journey filled with highs and lows, moments of unwavering trust, and times of doubt. It’s something that many, if not all, who are saved can relate to, where we may find ourselves questioning if we are truly holding onto our faith or if we are faltering in our trust in the Lord. This doubt can sometimes stem from feeling unworthy of the incredible gift offered by God, by troubles in our personal lives, or any number of reasons.

What is important to acknowledge is that these feelings, that our faltering is a universal feeling; they are part of our human experience of faith. It does not diminish our devotion, doubt is not a sign of weakness but it is an opportunity for growth. Even the most devoted of believers have grappled with these uncertainties. 

These moments of faltering can be a step towards a deeper, more authentic version of our faith. Embracing our doubts with honesty and seeking to overcome them leads to a stronger relationship with God. The Bible itself is a testament to this, portraying individuals who faced challenges to their faith and yet still found strength and renewal through God.

One way to navigate through these doubtful moments is by turning to the Scriptures. The Bible offers words of wisdom, comfort, and reassurance (among other things) that can serve as an anchor for our faith. For instance, the following reminds us of God’s steadfast presence:

Psalm 46:1
[46] God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

This verse is a comforting reminder that God is with us, offering support and strength in all our times of need, even those times of doubt and faltering.

Prayer, a powerful tool at our disposal, is another way of strengthening our faith. Through prayer, we can express our doubts, fears, and struggles to God, knowing that He hears and understands that which is in our hearts.

Philippians 4:6-7
[6] Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
[7] And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

This passage highlights, and encourages, the peace that comes from entrusting our concerns to God through prayer.

Community, Fellowship and the Assembly, also plays a large vital role in our spiritual journey. Connecting with fellow believers helps to provide support, encouragement, and accountability.

Hebrews 10:24-25
[24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
[25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

This emphasizes the importance of fellowship. Engaging in our community helps remind us that we are not alone in our struggles and strengthens our faith through our shared experiences.

Lastly, gratitude and reflection both can help bring a deeper trust in God. Taking time to count our blessings and reflect on God’s faithfulness in our lives can shift our perspective and help to foster a greater sense of gratitude and trust in His plan.

Our faith is a journey of many paths, with moments of doubt, faltering, and trust all intertwined. It’s a journey we all navigate, drawing strength from the Word, prayer, community, and gratitude. These elements remind us that while doubt may arise, and we feel like we might be faltering, that our faith can be strengthened through intentional practices and deepening our relationship with God.

Hebrews 11:6
[6] But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ – Part 3: Wrestling with Our Sinful Nature — by Marc MacArthur

As Christians, our journey involves not only an external battle but also a deeply personal struggle against our own flesh. This internal conflict is rooted in what the Bible calls our sinful nature, encompassing the inherent desire within us that stands opposed to God’s divine will.

Romans 7:21-23
[21] I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
[22] For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 
[23] but I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

The apostle Paul describes this internal struggle in Romans, where he speaks of the presence of evil within himself despite his desire to do good. He describes the tension between delighting in God’s law within him and feeling the opposing pull of sinful desires within his flesh.

These fleshly desires can manifest in various ways. Pride surfaces as an inflated sense of self-importance, leading to arrogance and disobedience against God. Lust represents uncontrolled sexual desires that can drive individuals toward adultery, pornography, or other immoral acts. Greed an insatiable craving for material wealth and possessions, distracting away from spiritual growth. Anger, an unbridled rage and bitterness, damaging to relationships and hindering spiritual development. Laziness is seen as a lack of motivation to pursue spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and serving others.

Despite the powerful nature of these tendencies of the flesh, the message of Scripture is one of hope and encouragement. It assures us that we are not enslaved to our sinful nature but can, through Christ, overcome its influence. No matter how much we grow spiritually, the flesh itself does not improve; instead, as we become more guided by the Holy Spirit, we are less dominated by the desires of the flesh.

Galatians 5:16
[16] This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Central to this victory is the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 urges believers to “walk in the Spirit” to “not fulfil,” or avoid, the lusts of the flesh. Surrendering to the Holy Spirit’s guidance provides the strength and discernment needed to resist temptation and to help align our lives with God’s will. It empowers us to make choices that align with God’s will and gradually transform our desires into a reflection of His character.

Galatians 5:24
[24] And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

Romans 8:13
[13] For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

The concept of crucifying the flesh highlights the active role we must play in subduing our sinful desires. It involves a deliberate effort to align our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with God’s word, with the teachings of Scripture, continually putting to death the deeds of the flesh: “For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.”

Romans 12:2
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

In Romans 12:2 it emphasizes the transformation that occurs as our minds are renewed, enabling us to discern God’s will and help to reject the impulses of the flesh.  Immersing ourselves in scripture allows us to develop a Christ-centered perspective.

Philippians 4:8
[8] Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

This verse instructs us on what the focus of our thoughts should be on, highlighting the importance of directing our minds toward positive and godly thoughts, which helps in overcoming the sinful inclinations of the flesh.

The battle against the flesh is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. By continually surrendering to God’s will and actively resisting the temptations of the flesh, we are gradually transformed from within, becoming more like Christ each day. This journey will lead to a deeper relationship with God and a life that increasingly mirrors His holiness and love.


Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ
Part 1: Foundations
Part 2: The World a Subtle Threat to Our Faith
Part 3: Wrestling with Our Sinful Nature
Part 4: Exposing the Devil’s Lies


Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ – Part 2: The World a Subtle Threat to Our Faith — by Marc MacArthur

In our journey as Christians, we confront a profound challenge known as spiritual warfare. This battleground encompasses not only direct assaults from demonic forces but also internal struggles within ourselves. Yet, among these well-recognized adversaries, there exists an often underestimated foe: the world. The world stands as a cunning and deceptive adversary. Unlike the devil’s overt attacks or the flesh’s internal struggles, the world’s influence is often subtle and deceptive.

Ephesians 2:2
[2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

The term “world” carries a weighty significance in biblical context, as articulated in Ephesians 2:2. Here, it signifies not the physical planet but rather the prevailing attitudes, values, and systems that stand in opposition to God’s teachings. At the core of the world’s allure are its promises, Its enticement, of fleeting pleasures, material possessions, and worldly success, most often at the expense of our spiritual well-being, as it weaves temptations into the fabric of our daily life.

It whispers seductively, enticing us to prioritize these transient gains over our spiritual well-being. The allure it offers is powerful, drawing us away from prayer, scriptural study, and meaningful fellowship with fellow believers. In doing this, it creates a chasm between us and God, which leaves us overly vulnerable to its deceptive charms.

One of the world’s strategies is to divert our focus from spiritual growth to worldly pursuits. Careers, possessions, social status, these become the benchmarks of success, overshadowing the importance of nurturing our relationship with God. We risk becoming ensnared in a cycle of materialism, where the pursuit of temporal pleasures eclipses the pursuit of eternal truths.

Moreover, societal norms often clash with God’s principles, pressuring us to compromise our morals and engage in behaviors that contradict our faith. Engaging in gossip, dishonesty, selfish ambition, and other activities that displease God; these are just a few examples of the moral compromises the world encourages. Standing firm in our Christian values among such pressures is a daunting task, which demands an unwavering commitment and courage. It is crucial that we remember our ultimate allegiance lies with God, that our actions should reflect a commitment to Him.

1 John 2:15
[15] Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

Here the apostle John warns us sternly. This serves as a poignant reminder of the dichotomy between worldly allure and spiritual devotion. The materialistic mindset of the world’s fleeting pleasures can cause us to lose sight of the eternal rewards that await those who remain faithful to God and prioritize our spiritual growth over material pursuits. 

Overcoming the world’s influence requires a conscious effort on our part to realign our priorities with God’s will. This process involves several key strategies:

Romans 12:2
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Firstly, renewing our minds through immersion in God’s Word. Romans 12:2 urges us to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind,” emphasizing the pivotal role of scripture in shaping our worldview and discernment, allowing us to distinguish between the values of the world and the principles laid out in the Bible. As we internalize God’s word, we gain the strength to resist the allure of the world and remain committed to our faith.

Secondly, seeking and surrounding ourselves with a fellowship of like-minded Believers provides crucial support and accountability. A strong Christian community bolsters our resolve and encourages us to stay steadfast in our faith, even in the face of worldly pressures. A strong Christian community can uplift us during challenging times. Sharing experiences, offering prayers, and participating in acts of service together can remind us of the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God.

Lastly, setting clear boundaries and priorities is paramount. This includes managing our time and resources in a manner that reflects our commitment to spiritual growth, how much time we dedicate to work or entertainment, selecting carefully what media we consume, and choosing friends who share our Christian values. With clear boundaries, we can create an environment of spiritual growth that protects us from the world’s temptations. 

Matthew 5:13-16
[13] Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
[14] Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
[15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

However, it’s vital to note that we are not called to withdraw entirely from the world but rather engage with it as ambassadors of Christ. Matthew 5:13-16 illustrates this beautifully, describing believers as salt and light, influencing the world with the love and grace of Christ while remaining distinct from its values.

In essence, navigating the challenges posed by the world requires vigilance, discernment, and unwavering faith. By prioritizing our relationship with God, cultivating a supportive Christian community, and setting clear boundaries, we can navigate the complexities of spiritual warfare and emerge as beacons of light in a world fraught with darkness. We can live in the world without being conformed to it, influencing those around us through our actions and exemplifying the love and grace of Christ.


Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ
Part 1: Foundations
Part 2: The World a Subtle Threat to Our Faith
Part 3: Wrestling with Our Sinful Nature
Part 4: Exposing the Devil’s Lies


Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ – Part 1: Foundations — by Marc MacArthur

The journey of faith is often portrayed as a smooth path paved with blessings. However, many believers encounter unexpected challenges after accepting Christ. This can be confusing and discouraging. The truth is, this is not a sign of weakness or even a lack of faith, they are the consequence of entering a spiritual ‘battlefield’ we weren’t aware of before.

This series, “Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ,” will dive into the nature of this warfare and how we can overcome it through our faith in Jesus Christ. We will explore various forces that oppose us all, covering the world, the flesh, and the devil.

Before accepting Christ, life might have seemed easier, devoid of the spiritual turmoil and conflict. The Bible describes this state in Ephesians 2:2, stating:

Ephesians 2:2
[2] Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

Essentially, we were unknowingly being influenced by the devil, who operated in the shadows, subtly leading us astray and manipulating our desires. He steered us away from God’s abundant grace. However, the moment we surrender our lives to Christ, a profound shift occurs. The adversary, recognizing the threat posed by our newfound faith in Christ, intensifies his efforts to derail our journey. 

1 Peter 5:8
[8] Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

As the apostle Peter warns in 1 Peter 5:8, the devil, now a “roaring lion,” actively seeks “whom he may devour.” Being no longer content to let us aimlessly wander, he launches relentless assaults, seeking to undermine our faith, sowing seeds of doubt in our hearts, and trying to hinder our love for Christ.

The trials and tribulations we face as Christians are not mere coincidences or random occurrences though. They are strategic attacks orchestrated by the enemy. 

Ephesians 6:12
[12] For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

This shows us that every setback, every temptation, and every hardship we encounter in our Christian life is but an aspect of the spiritual conflict raging around us. Yet, amidst these challenges and trials, there is hope. For we are not left to fend for ourselves in this spiritual warfare. Through Christ, we have been equipped with the mighty armor of God, which enables us to stand up firmly against the schemes of the devil.

Ephesians 6:13
[13] Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

As we hold to God’s promises and remain firm in our prayer, we can overcome every obstacle and emerge the victors in the journey of our faith. The hardships we face as Christians can serve to refine and strengthen our faith, eventually bringing us closer to God. 

James 1:2-4
[2] My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
[3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
[4] But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

In the battlefield of our adversity, our faith is tested, purified, and made resilient, enabling us to be able to walk boldly on the path that Christ has set us on. The Christian life is not exempt from trials and tribulations, embracing Christ invites greater challenges as we grapple with an adversary who seeks to undermine our faith. 

1 John 4:4
[4] Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

In the midst of the spiritual battle however we can find our strength, our hope, in Christ, knowing that He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world. Let us stand firm in our faith.

Romans 8:37
[37] Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.


Forged by Faith: Trials After Embracing Christ
Part 1: Foundations
Part 2: The World a Subtle Threat to Our Faith
Part 3: Wrestling with Our Sinful Nature
Part 4: Exposing the Devil’s Lies


A Personal Communion: Walking with God — by Marc MacArthur

This article is inspired by a Ministry message delivered by Peter Ramsay
in the O’Leary Gospel Hall on September 14, 2023

Genesis 5:24
[24] And Enoch walked with God…

Enoch’s extraordinary walk with God, told in the pages of Genesis, continues to resonate across the ages, leaving a mark on the hearts of believers. As we delve into the profound implications of walking with God, we embark on a journey that unfolds beyond that of public displays, calling us into the quiet, intimate spaces of personal communion with the Lord.

The apostle Paul’s address in Philippians 2:12 takes on a profound significance when contemplating the essence of walking with God. He urges believers to:

Philippians 2:12
[12] …work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

This is more than a mere call to action; it is an invitation to engage in a deeply personal and intentional relationship with the divine. Walking with God becomes a commitment that extends beyond that of religious gatherings and practices.

We must examine the potential mechanization that can enter our spiritual endeavors. Like the poetic wisdom found in Psalm 1:2, which paints a vivid picture of the blessedness. 

Psalm 1:2
[2] But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

The call to meditate implies not just casual contemplation but a deliberate and continuous communion with God, through His Word.

In the ebb and flow of spiritual experiences we find the changing reality of the Christian journey. Romans 12:11 encapsulates this truth as it encourages believers to:

Romans 12:11
[11] …fervent in spirit; serving the Lord

This fervency is a constant, whether we soar in the heights of love for the Lord or navigating the routine of spiritual exercises. It underlines the necessity of persistence in devotion, reminding us that our journey of walking with God is not defined just by its highs but also the steady rhythm of our commitment.

The heart of walking with God lies in our personal communion.

James 4:8
[8] Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you…

This sentiment beckons believers to “draw near to God,” with the promise that He will reciprocate. This reciprocal relationship requires intentional effort, an acknowledgment that walking with God is an interaction that demands our dedication. It calls us to cultivate a continuous awareness of God’s presence in our lives, whether in moments of solitude or in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Psalm 19:14
[14] Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

Here the psalmist’s words extend beyond formal prayers. It encapsulates the idea that every moment, whether on a tranquil beach or during a leisurely stroll, can be a backdrop for our communion with the divine. Walking with God becomes a fluid, continuous conversation rather than a compartmentalized aspect of our lives.

Hebrews 13:15
[15] By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

The sacrifice of praise becomes a poignant expression of walking with God. This sacrifice is not confined to the praise of public gatherings; it extends into the private areas of our hearts. As we reflect on God’s goodness, acknowledging His presence and expressing gratitude, we engage in an act of communion. Hebrews 13:15 reinforces the idea that our praise is not contingent on circumstances but is a continual offering from our lips, giving thanks to His name.

Each believer’s walk is a unique experience of personal encounters, struggles, and victories. The Bible, our guide on this journey, provides stories and teachings that show various facets of walking with God.

Consider Abraham, referred to as the “friend of God”. His journey was marked by a profound trust. Abraham’s walk with God was characterized by unwavering faith, and it serves as inspiration for believers navigating the unpredictable paths of life.

David, described as a man after God’s own heart, offers a poetic expression of walking with God. His writings cover a range of human emotions, from deep despair to exuberant praise.

Psalm 23:1,4
[1] The Lord is my shepherd…
[4] …for thou art with me…

David paints a picture of God as the Shepherd guiding him through the valleys and pastures of life. This highlights the comforting companionship of walking with God.

1 John 1:3
[3] That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.

The apostle John shares insights into the nature of fellowship with God. John emphasizes the communal aspect of walking with God, inviting believers into a shared experience of fellowship.

Walking with God involves trust, obedience, and a willingness to navigate the landscapes of life in companionship with the Creator. The potential mechanization of our spiritual practices requires careful consideration. It is too easy to slip into routines that lack a genuine connection with God. The Bible warns against mere outward rituals devoid of heartfelt devotion.

Isaiah 29:13
[13] …this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me…

These words serve as a reminder that walking with God is not just a performance; it requires the engagement of our hearts.

Enoch’s walk with God, Abraham’s journey of faith, David’s poetic expressions, and John’s emphasis on fellowship all expand our understanding of what it means to walk with God. It is an invitation to personal communion, a dedication to the daily seeking of His presence, meditating on His Word, and offering a sacrifice of praise. May our hearts be stirred by each moment of communion with the Lord, a journey that turns the routine into an intimate walk. A walk not confined to specific moments but spreads through every aspect of our lives, shaping our thoughts, words, and actions.

The Pathway to True Greatness — Timothy MacKenzie

Isaiah 52:13-15 (KJV)
[13] Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.
[14] As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:
[15] So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider.

I was speaking on the phone with a good friend of mine the other day, and he was telling me how he was imagining what the sufferings of the Lord Jesus were really like. He thought about especially the scourging, and the wounds on the back of his Saviour. My friend said he came to the conclusion that he wasn’t worthy for the Lord Jesus to suffer that much for him.

If we were honest, we would all have to come to that conclusion, in fact we are far less than worthy to have Him suffer so in our place. That day my mind went to this passage, in which we see the sufferings of our Lord Jesus, and His corresponding glory.

This is the first three verses of one of the greatest prophecies concerning our Lord Jesus Christ. It continues through the whole of the following chapter. This prophecy so vividly and accurately describes the life and sufferings of Jesus of Nazareth that the modern day Jew is strongly discouraged from reading this chapter (https://israelmyglory.org/article/the-forbidden-chapter/), in case he will be “led astray” and believe on Jesus as the Messiah.

Verse 13 gives an overview of the whole prophecy, using three different words and ideas to describe the ultimate exaltation of the greatest man in history, the servant of Jehovah. It also tells of how He will eventually prosper, and have the first place in all things.

Colossians 1:18 (KJV)
[18] And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Verse 14 gives us an overview of the depth of His physical disfigurement and sufferings. His face was beaten and bruised, so that He hardly looked like a human being. Many were astonished to see Israel so ill-treated in this world (as many were astonied at Thee), so in the same way they were amazed to see such a spectacle, the Servant of Jehovah so mistreated.

But in verse 15, in the first word, so, we have the corresponding and the equally astounding fact of His exaltation and glory in the midst of the nations of the world.

As many were astonished at His suffering, so will He sprinkle many nations with blessings, and astonish many kings with His power and authority.

They will shut their mouths in the presence and the glorious majesty of the “King of kings,” and see and consider what they had not known before. The beautiful words of Centra Thompson’s hymn are very appropriate here:

Ev’ry mark of dark dishonor
Heaped upon Thy thorn-crowned brow,
All the depths of Thy heart’s sorrow
Told in answering glory now!

“Gazing on Thee, Lord, in Glory” Verse 2 – Centra Thompson

Our response to such a prophecy of the sufferings and glory of our Lord Jesus Christ should be heartfelt and genuine worship, and acknowledge Him as Lord of all.

Philippians 2:9-11 (KJV)
[9] Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
[10] That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
[11] And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Acts 10:36 (KJV)
[36] The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

Bring Your Loaves and Fishes and Trust in God’s Provision — by Marc MacArthur

In the Gospel, we find this story of provision and faith, a story that resonates with the mission we share as believers. Starting with the feeding of the 5000, we uncover valuable insights that relate to our calling to spread the gospel to a hungry world, and to place our trust in God’s abundant provision.

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭14:17‭-‬20a ‭KJV‬‬
[17] And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes.
[18] He said, Bring them hither to me. 
‭[19] And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. 
[20] And they did all eat, and were filled: …

This story is not just about physical hunger but also a spiritual hunger for the Word of God. Just like the disciples, we are entrusted with a mission to feed the spiritual hunger of those around us. However, we often feel inadequate, even as the disciples with all their provisions.

But remember our role is not to convert or save people. Our role is to bring the message of Christ to the world, to offer the loaves and fishes of His teachings. The outcome is in God’s hands, not ours.

In Corinthians the Apostle Paul tells us:

1 Corinthians‬ ‭3:6‭-‬7‬ ‭KJV‬‬
[6] I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
[7] So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 

We are merely planters and waterers of the seeds of faith. It is God who brings the increase, who feeds the spiritual hunger, and who changes hearts. We must trust in Him and His divine timing.

Our duty is to share the message of salvation, the love of Christ, and His teachings. Just as the disciples brought their small offering to Jesus, we must faithfully bring the gospel to those we encounter.

In Mark Jesus instructs us:

Mark‬ ‭16:15‬ ‭KJV‬‬
[15] And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 

As we heed this divine command, let us remember that our role is to bring the gospel, not to guarantee its acceptance. We might face rejection, indifference, or even hostility, but our faithfulness lies in our obedience to share the good news.

Be encouraged by the story of the feeding of the 5000. You just need to bring the loaves and fishes of the gospel; it’s up to God to feed the hearts and souls of people. Trust in His wisdom, His timing, and His grace.

May we be faithful stewards of the gospel message, leaving the results in the hands of our God. It is He who changes lives, and it is He who will bring the increase. Trust in God’s ability to perform the miraculous. 

Amen.