And they discussed it and reasoned with one another, It is because we have no bread.
Today’s scripture is part of a story in which Jesus’ disciples did not understand something He said. When the Bible says they “reasoned with one another,” it simply means they tried to figure out what He meant. To reason, in this sense, means to use natural, human effort to try to understand or figure out something. It steals our peace and keeps our minds and emotions in turmoil.
The disciples often became involved in reasoning when what they really needed was revelation from the Holy Spirit. He is able to give us the insight and understanding we need in any situation, no matter how confusing it may seem.
I was once addicted to reasoning. No matter what happened, I did not discipline my mind and spent too much time trying to figure it out. The Holy Spirit eventually helped me understand that as long as I was caught up in reasoning, I couldn’t walk in discernment.
Discernment starts in the heart and enlightens the mind. It’s spiritual, not natural. The Holy Spirit doesn’t help us reason, but He does help us discern.
When we need to understand something, God certainly wants us to use the good minds He’s given us and to employ common sense. But when our thoughts get tangled up and we lose our peace because we can- not figure something out, we have gone too far. At that point, we simply need to ask God for discernment, wait on Him to reveal what we need to know, and choose to be at peace.
Prayer of the Day: When I’m tempted to reason, Lord, help me to stop, find peace, and renew my faith in You.
