God’s Work, God’s Supply

Bible Reading: Matthew 9:35–10:15

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 

therefore ask the Lord of the harvest

 to send out laborers into his harvest.

Matthew 9:37–38

As Jesus traveled through the towns and villages, teaching, preaching, and healing, He was moved with compassion for the crowds because they were “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” His response was not frustration or indifference, but the tender mercy of the Good Shepherd. Seeing their need, He declared that the harvest was plentiful and called His followers to pray for workers. The harvest belongs to God, and so does the mission. Before He sends His disciples, Jesus teaches them to look upon people with His compassion and to depend upon the Lord of the harvest.

Jesus then called twelve ordinary men and entrusted them with an extraordinary task. Fishermen, a tax collector, and a zealot hardly seemed likely candidates to change the world. Yet their effectiveness rested not on their abilities but on the One who called them. God often chooses ordinary people so that His power may be clearly seen. The call of Christ is not reserved for the gifted few; it is extended to all who are willing to follow Him.

Jesus instructed His disciples to travel lightly and depend on God’s care. The missionary Hudson Taylor learned this truth during his years in China. Faced with overwhelming needs and limited resources, he discovered repeatedly that God supplied what was necessary for the work. He later wrote, “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” Whether we are serving others, facing challenges, or making difficult decisions, the same Lord calls and provides. He gives wisdom for the task, strength for the day, and daily bread for the journey. Having heard His voice, we can move forward in faith, trusting that the One who sends us will also sustain us.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Give us compassionate hearts, willing hands, and faith to trust Your provision. Lead us wherever You send us, and go with us, Lord, for we cannot make the journey alone. 

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.