August 11, 2021: SOAP #4269:  Rework of #3173:  Jeremiah 7-9; John 13

Scripture:  John (NIV) 13:4 … [Jesus] got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel round his waist. 5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped round him. …                                     
15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. …

Observation:   All Jesus needed to serve His disciples that night was a basin with water and a towel—simple items that were readily available.  Jesus did not send one of his disciples out to the market to get a plush towel, a fancy basis, and some bottled water; He used what was available. 

As I think on this, it seems Jesus usually followed that same pattern of using what was readily available.  He did send his disciples to get a donkey and to look for food to feed the five thousand, but He only used what was available.  There was no pleading for money or worrying about supplies.

Application:  Does this mean that Jesus will never have me go out looking for what I need to serve Him?  No.  But I believe it honors Him when I start with what I have available.  If I am faithful in using what is available, I have found Him faithful to supply what is needed.  I believe I should put my focus on using what I already have and let Him focus on providing what I lack.  God can miraculously multiply what I have or add to it from another source. 

I must remember that the many promises in the Bible were not placed there because someone twisted God’s arm until He gave in.  They are there because He wants us to depend on Him and trust Him for what we need. 

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, I want you to be able to count on me to go where you want me to go and do what you want me to do.  I want you to know that I count on you to provide what is needed for me to fulfill your will.  I will obey your command and trust what you provide. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!