Matthew 15:31. “Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel.”
MEETING NEEDS. [vs.1-20] When they are right, they are valuable; when they are wrong, they are dangerous. When they have been practiced for years, they are still not laws. When they have added rich meaning to life, still they are not elevated to being sacred. When they help us understand God’s laws, they do not become laws themselves.
Traditions of men are not the commandments of God. Traditions of men are not always good. Traditions of men are not divinely inspired. Traditions of men must be tested and tried.
[vs.21-31] Nagging persistence: again, and again the desire is expressed. Compassion is needed: when satisfaction is beyond reach. Sensitivity longs for the healing touch of concern and consideration. Helpless to meet a need or expectation leads to desperation.
Desperation because of prejudice, and you feel so alone. Desperation because of inconvenience when you can’t get home. Desperation because of need that is impossible to fill. Desperation because of difference, yet Jesus is able still.
[vs.32-39] Hunger returns because by its very nature, it is never satisfied. Body, soul and spirit have needs that must be continually met. Young, middle-aged and old all need what can only be supplied by others. All of us, in almost every way have to look elsewhere for provision.
In the wilderness journey of God’s people in the past; He made full provision that for forty years did last. In times of despair and personal need today; He still, in all His faithfulness, gives us full provision that stays.
“O God of all ages and Giver of every good and perfect gift: in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, I honor Thee now for all the ways of communicating Thy truth to me that Thou hast used over these many years. I am so very thankful for all the provision Thou hast made to meet my every need. Amen.”