Today's Special: God's Word!

"The Bible is food for the spiritual life, which needs to be nourished just as your body does."  - Billy Graham

I love watching cooking shows! As someone who enjoys cooking (i.e., trying new recipes, experimenting with different spices and ingredients from around the world, entertaining family and friends, etc.), I'm amazed at the variety of programs both on television and online.

In fact, anytime you bring up the topic of cooking or food in mixed company you're sure to find at least one or two people who will eagerly contribute their own experiences or suggestions to the conversation. It's not surprising because cooking and eating is universal.

Food is also a basic requirement for life. We're all aware of the necessity of food for our physical selves. Along with water, we just wouldn't last very long without it. Still, there's another type of food that you don't hear about quite as much.

This "food" that I'm talking about is: spiritual food. Spiritual food is necessary for our spiritual lives. Similar to the way that food nourishes and replenishes our physical bodies, "spiritual" food nourishes and renews our "spiritual lives."

When I notice that our "physical" food supply is running low, I know that it's time to head out and buy some more. (More than likely, it's my husband and kids who let me know when it's time to go grocery shopping. But that's another story for another day!)

So where does one go for spiritual food? No, you won't find it in any supermarket, nor can it be ordered in a restaurant. You see, you can't purchase it in the sense that you would buy meat or vegetables. Spirtual food may be received, or acquired through the pages of God's Word or, the Bible.

I've known people who've said that they've read the Bible over and over, but have never gotten anything out of it. I tell them that I can see what the problem is. They are "reading" the Bible but not "consuming" it. It's important to glean nourishment from the Bible and not simply use it to gain knowledge as you would a history or math book.

Let me put it this way. If you really want to get enjoyment from a great meal you don't gulp it down. Taking time to inhale the aroma, chewing the food slowly, and tasting the flavor all enhance the experience. The same applies to receiving spiritual nourishment from the Bible.

Now, don't get me wrong. When I mentioned "consuming" the Bible I didn't mean to attack and tear through it. Just like "physical" food, we must slow down and process what we read if we are to get anything out of it. Read a passage slowly, break it down, and think about it.

Yes, there will be passages that are more difficult to understand than others, but don't let that throw you. If you've spent a reasonable amount of time and effort on one and are at a standstill, then press forward. Pray to God for clarity and return to it later. Think of it as finding a stray bone in your food. Don't let it ruin your meal, Simply take it out, and continue on.

We need sustenance for our Christian lives. Without it, as our physical bodies would eventually wither and die without food, so too our spiritual lives. God gave us His Word for our spiritual provision. Open your Bible and let Him replenish and refresh your spirit today!

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16; 1 Corinthians 10:3; John 6:63; 1 Timothy 4:6; Matthew 4:4

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I come to you today for Your nourishing Word; refresh my spirit and fill me up with Your loving mercy and grace. I am ready to receive all that You desire to provide. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Makinzie