Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year’s wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!” John 6:7 NIV

This scripture comes to us as part of the miraculous feeding of the five thousand. The bible records five thousand men in attendance on the far shore of the Sea of Galilee. The actual number of people is likely far greater when we consider the women and children present at the time. 

The crowd was so large because of the healing ministry of Christ. Having witnessed many miracles as proof of the divinity of Christ, masses of people followed Jesus to hear his message and see what he might do next. What followed was another of Jesus’ famous miracles and further proof of his divine nature. 

Where Do We Buy Bread?

With so many people following him and no food to give, Jesus asked his disciple Phillip a rhetorical question. The Lord says in John 6:5, ‘Where are we to buy bread, that these may eat?  WEB” Of course, Christ already had in mind what he would do, but Phillip’s answer indicated that it would take a half a year’s wages to feed the multitude.

At that time, another disciple, Andrew, shares with the Lord that a boy in attendance has five small loaves of barely bread and two small fish. After having the people sit down on the grassy ground, Jesus has his disciples distribute these meager rations among the multitude of people. 

Twelve Baskets

When the leftovers were gathered, they filled twelve baskets and the entire congregation of followers had eaten. This is another example of God’s ability to perform what to man seems impossible. The lesson here is to rely on God rather than trust in our own assessments and understanding. Also, the miracle is further proof of the divinity of Christ. 

The God of creation who brought the world into existence with his word is able to provide for our needs. Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the five thousand plus people, demonstrates his power and control over the physical world. It shows his divine ability to multiply resources and to bring the nonexistent into existence. What would cost man half a year’s wages, God can provide in an instant with abundance leftover. 

Yesterday’s Devotional: Filled With the Spirit