Giving Thanks

He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. (Mark 8:6, 7)


I had a question for Jesus sometime back when my salary was delayed. I had been praying regularly regarding my salary and tithing and giving to the poor and needy. I had not withheld what I was to give others lawfully. Then why was my salary being delayed? Not once but every month for several months. And he answered me through the verses given above.

Giving thanks for what little was available was what Jesus did when he had to provide for more than 4000 people. And he did the same when he had to feed more than 5000.
The latter miracle is mentioned by all 4 gospel writers. Mark writes,
"Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to set before the people. He also divided the two fish among them all." (Mark 6:41)

Of course, we may give thanks when we get what we ask for, but God expects a heart full of gratitude when we have little too. The little that Jesus was given in his hands (7 loaves and a few fish) (5 loaves and 2 fish) were multiplied when Jesus gave thanks to the father in heaven. And the best part of the miracles were that.......
Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. (Mark 8:8)
They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. (Mark 6:42, 43).......The people ate and were satisfied.

Satisfaction & some left overs......May God be glorified.