Mark 8
May 11, 2022
“During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat.’” (v1-2)
The people are so hungry for Jesus that their hunger for food takes a backseat. They’re willing to endure a three day fast for the sake of “being with Jesus” (v2). And yet, before they leave, Jesus makes sure that they all eat and are “satisfied” (v8). As C.S. Lewis says, “Put first things first and second things are thrown in. Put second things first and you lose both first things and second things.”
Lord, I praise You because You are the true Bread of Life. Everything I need is found in You and comes from You. You are the ultimate “First Thing” in life. It’s why You call me to “Seek FIRST You, Your Kingdom and Your righteousness,” and that when I do, “everything else I need will be added” (Matt 6). Forgive me for the times I pursue my appetites, desires and wants more than pursuing You. Transform my appetites, desires and wants - so that I hunger more and more for You. Open my eyes to see You as the One who is worthy to pursue first, and trustworthy to give me everything else I need.
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
