September 24

Bread Winning!

But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” — Matt 4:4 BSB

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you. — Matt 6:33 BSB

The question Satan posed to Jesus is one that we all must answer: Where does bread and bread-getting fit into our lives? Is it our first priority or the last? Satan suggests that bread is the most important thing in life, but Christ teaches that it is secondary. Have you ever considered which way of life you are following and what you would do in a moment of crisis? The temptation that came to Jesus comes to us all. Whether on a lonely mountainside or in the busy streets of life, the devil tempts us to prioritize our physical needs, leaving concerns of purity, truth, and faithfulness to God as secondary.

At every crucial turning point in life, these two options are laid before us: Satan says, “Turn these stones into bread,” while Christ says, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God.” We must choose between God and mammon. We all experience hunger for various things—for food, for love, for knowledge—and Satan bids us fulfill those desires apart from God. But God, who gave us these strong desires, knows our needs and promises to fulfill them. The body is more than food, and the One who created both will surely meet our needs. His angels are even now on their way to provide for you. Don’t take your life into your own hands or act out of fear or passion. Instead, cast all your cares on Him. Those who wait on the Lord will never be ashamed. Remember the angel who brought food to Elijah in the wilderness and the meal that Jesus prepared for His tired disciples by the sea. If you trust in Him, He will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. “Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.”

Prayer

Give us grace to seek first Your kingdom and righteousness, in the sure and certain faith that all else will be added unto us. Amen.