Listen to today’s devo!

When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. (Mark 8:19)

Why is it so easy to forget the good things that others have done for us? A friend or a spouse can do numerous kind and selfless actions, but one harsh word or darkened mood seems to erase the former. Too often this happens in our closest relationships. The ones who we spend the most time with, who we have seen do amazing and sacrificial acts, often get the least benefit of the doubt from us.

The disciples had traveled with Jesus long enough at this point to know that he was not someone who needed to be concerned with a lack of bread. Jesus rightly reminded them that he had the power to make food if needed. Imagine how the disciples must have felt when he reminded them of how many basketfuls they collected—on two separate occasions mind you.

Perhaps we forget the good that others do because we are much better at keeping long and detailed records of the wrongs they have committed against us rather than of the good things they have done. And if we so easily forget the good things that those closest to us do, the ones we live with day in and day out, how much easier is it for us to forget all the good things that God has done?

Remind yourself of all the blessings of God you have received.

Mark A. Moore is an associate professor of theology at William Jessup University and the spiritual formation pastor at Faith Legacy [Wesleyan] Church in Sacramento.

© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.