Read John 6:1-14

Tell Jesus About Your Problems

A couple of weeks ago, we studied the occasion of Andrew bringing his brother Peter to Jesus, recorded in John 1:35-42. That was on “Day 204,” if you need to refresh your memory. The thrust of those thoughts was the importance of bringing someone to Jesus. In today’s text, Andrew again brings someone to Jesus. This time, it was because of a problem that faced the disciples.

Mark, Luke, and John all indicate that there were about five thousand men present on this occasion. Matthew adds that this number was “besides women and children” (Matthew 14:21), indicating the actual number of the multitude was much greater. To feed such a great number would have been a monumental task, and Philip acknowledged that. “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may have a little” (John 6:7).

Despite the problem they faced, Andrew brought a boy to Jesus who had “five barley loaves and two small fish” (John 6:9). Understand that these are not the loaves of bread you might purchase at the grocery store or bakery, but very small, flat cakes, and the fish were likely very small as well, used as a relish with the bread.

Andrew asked, “What are they among so many?” (John 6:9). Sure, it was food, but there were thousands of people there. The apostles didn’t have enough food for everyone, nor did they have enough money to buy food for everyone. But they brought the problem to the One who could provide an answer. They brought it to Jesus.

Just as important as bringing people to Jesus is bringing problems to Jesus. He wants to help us with our struggles. That is why He said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).

Have you brought your problems to Jesus lately? “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6-7). Take a moment now to thank Him for His love, and seek His answers to your troubles today.