When “Not Enough” Becomes More Than Enough

Have you ever faced a situation where you had no idea how you were going to make it through? I’ve been there—staring at a mountain of need with only a handful of options. It’s in those moments that we’re often reminded that God isn’t limited by what we see.

During my study abroad semester in France, I faced a major financial crisis. I ran out of funding mid-semester, and it seemed like my dream of finishing the program was slipping through my fingers. With no other options in sight, I prayed—desperate for a way out. Then something incredible happened. My university, which rarely co-signed loans for students, made an exception for me. It was a rare act of favor that covered what I needed to stay in France. That experience taught me that when we bring what little we have to God—our prayers, our faith, our resources—He multiplies it into more than enough.

This reminds me of the story in John 6:9, where a boy offered his small lunch of five loaves and two fish to Jesus. What seemed like too little became the foundation for a miracle that fed over 5,000 men, not including women and children. As Mark 6:42-43 (NIV) says, “They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish.” This wasn’t just provision—it was abundance.

The Overflow Is Always Planned

Before Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish, He had the crowd sit in organized groups of fifties and hundreds (Mark 6:40). It wasn’t because He needed a headcount—He already knew how many people were there. This intentional preparation reflects God’s nature. He doesn’t just meet our needs on a whim; He plans our provision down to the smallest detail.

When I prayed for a way to do a semester study in France, I had no idea how God would come through. Yet, He had already prepared the solution—a rare loan co-signed by my university. It was something I could never have orchestrated on my own, but God had already calculated my need and provided the answer.

What We Offer, God Multiplies

The boy in the story of the loaves and fish didn’t hesitate to give what he had, even though it seemed too small to matter. That’s the kind of faith God asks of us—not to have all the answers, but to trust Him with what we have. As Philippians 4:19 (NIV) reminds us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

When I reflect on my time in France, I realize that my prayer and willingness to trust God were my “five loaves and two fish.” I didn’t have the money, but I brought my faith to Him. He took that small act of trust and multiplied it into a solution that was not only rare but life-changing.

Practical Steps

1. Offer What You Have

Whatever you have—whether it’s a skill, a prayer, or even a small amount of time—give it to God. Don’t underestimate the power of small beginnings.

“God will take the little you have and make it more than enough.” – Unknown

2. Prepare for the Blessing

Just as Jesus organized the crowd before the miracle, make space in your life for God’s provision. Whether it’s creating a budget, prioritizing your time, or praying with focus, preparation is an act of faith.

3. Celebrate the Overflow

Look for the “baskets of leftovers” in your life. God doesn’t just meet needs; He exceeds them. Recognize and give thanks for the abundance He provides.

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.” – Melody Beattie


Self Assessment Questions

1. What small offering in your life can you place in God’s hands today?

• Consider the resources, skills, or opportunities you might be underestimating.

2. Are you creating space for God’s provision?

• Ask yourself if your life is open to receiving His blessings or if distractions and doubt are in the way.

3. How are you using the overflow in your life to bless others?

• Reflect on how God’s abundance in your life can be shared with those in need.


God’s Overflow Is for You

The story of the loaves and fish isn’t just about physical provision—it’s about God’s abundant nature. He knows your needs before you do, and He has already planned the overflow for your life. My experience in France taught me that when we offer our “not enough” to God, He turns it into more than enough.

Maybe you’re facing a situation today where you feel like you don’t have what it takes—whether it’s finances, time, or emotional strength. Remember, God’s provision isn’t limited by your resources. He’s the God who multiplied five loaves and two fish to feed thousands, and He can do the same in your life.

As you trust Him, watch for the baskets of leftovers—the unexpected blessings and opportunities that remind you of His goodness.

“Faith is seeing light with your heart when all your eyes see is darkness.” – Unknown


Prayer

Father, thank You for being the God of overflow. Thank You for taking the small things I offer and multiplying them into more than enough. Help me to trust You in every situation, knowing that You have already planned my provision. May Your abundance in my life overflow to bless others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


What’s your “five loaves and two fish” today? I’d love to hear your story in the comments!

© 2024 Amelie Chambord

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I’m Amelie!

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