Title: Reward for Giving.

John 6:13 KJV “Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.”

Devotion: Today, I continue the discussion on giving that we began yesterday. In John 6:12, we learn about a young lad who had only five loaves of bread and two small pieces of fish. It was just enough for him to eat once or, at best, twice in a day. Yet, he willingly offered it without hesitation or complaint.

  Jesus, the miracle worker, accepted the offering and gave thanks to God for it. Then, in an astounding display of divine provision, He fed five thousand men—not even counting the women and children. We know that in gatherings of this nature, there are usually more women than men (as women tend to participate in church programs more actively). In total, Jesus may have fed a minimum of ten thousand people, yet there were still twelve baskets of leftovers.

  I boldly assert that these leftovers were most likely returned to the boy, meaning that he received twelve baskets full of bread in exchange for his simple donation of five loaves. What an extraordinary return on investment! 

  As Luke 6:38 reminds us, _“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.”_ When we joyfully offer what we have for the work of Christ, God blesses us abundantly in ways we cannot imagine.

  The ultimate gift is surrendering your life to Christ. As a living sacrifice, you'll find new life and purpose in Him. When you share His love with others you will experience the richness of God's blessings. If you haven't already, consider giving your life to Christ Jesus today and start embracing the fullness of His goodness.

  So, this weekend, as you visit the village or your neighborhood, take time to lend a helping hand to a weak elderly lady, assist someone in need, and give even in small ways to the poor around you. Remember what Proverbs 11:25 says: _“The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.”_ Your kindness will not go unnoticed—God will replenish and multiply your blessings in Jesus’ name.

Shalom!  

© Dr. Joel Olanrewaju, gbemide09@gmail.com

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