There are two miracles of multiplication in close proximity here in 2 Kings 4. The multiplication of the widow’s oil and the multiplication of the loaves. This multiplication miracle is replicated by Jesus in Matthew 14:13-21 and again in 15:29-39. When an act of God like this is repeated, we do well to inquire into the meaning of it. Miracles were never intended as just impressive displays of power. They always say something about God and what God wants. The idea of multiplication is also at work in Jesus’ descriptions of his kingdom. The mustard seed becomes the great tree. The yeast spreads throughout the dough (Matthew 13:31-33). God is committed to multiplication. We see multiplication at work in descriptions of the growth of the early church in Acts. The ministry of the apostles was made miraculously fruitful. This principle of multiplication means that God takes the small things we offer to him and multiplies them into great effects. The humble acts of sharing our faith can change a person’s life forever. A word of encouragement spoken at the right time can give a new lease of life to a person. God wants you to experience the miracle of multiplication. Multiplication, however, begins with something to multiply. It doesn’t have to be much, and it doesn’t even have to be of the best quality. It just has to be something. God takes small regular acts of love and faith and uses them to change the world. The kingdom does not advance by the great deeds of man but by the great deeds of God who multiplies what we give to him.
What ‘seeds’ have you planted lately? What ‘seeds’ can you plant today?
Read 2 Kings 4:38-44
