But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4 ESV)
There are several smoothie and juice franchises in our city. Every once in a while, my daughters and I go for a healthier alternative than the typical take out fast food permeating our city. Some of them offer extra optional ingredients that increase your energy, immunity, fiber and other benefits.
Whenever it’s my turn to order, I usually know right away what flavor I want, but I stumble with regards to the extras!
Do I feel tired? Am I hormonally off-balanced? Constipated? Experiencing another Sahara desert style hot flash?
Honestly, if I am standing at a takeout counter, it usually means I’m exhausted and have been making decisions all day. I buckle, and let the poor unsuspecting girl behind the counter choose for me. Occasionally however, I will know what I need . . . and most likely it’s get-up-and-go!
Give me a boost of energy! (As long as you hold back the calories – I’m still trying to lose my ‘baby’ weight and my baby is seventeen!)
Aren’t there days when you just need something more? When you feel so empty you can barely stand? That’s when I so often emotionally eat, grabbing carbs at every opportunity. Chips, cake, cookies and . . . bread.
But carbohydrates are not my friend. Not when I am trying to get back into shape. Or at least find a more agreeable shape.
Thankfully, He has told us that it’s not the doughy bread that sustains us, but His Word . . . the Bread of Life:
Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. (John 6:35 ESV)
It’s a journey – one that I’m not quite done yet – but I am learning more and more to turn to my Bible apps on my phone for boosts when I’m feeling drained or ‘hungry’. I snack on a Psalm, or a favorite devotional instead of heading to the pantry. It’s been an amazing turn around in my habits. Not that I’ve walked away completely from my treats, but I’m getting there.
Lord, forgive us for neglecting your Word and help us to learn to turn away from the kitchen and towards you, craving your Bread when we need a boost. Amen
