Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Deuteronomy 8:3
This scripture originates in the story of Israel and their experience wandering through the desert. Moses was giving his final words to the Israelites before turning over leadership to Joshua. Throughout the time they had wandered in the wilderness, God had provided quail, water and bread. Now they would be entering the promised land “flowing with milk and honey.” But Moses reminds them of a greater provision - the words of God.
After Jesus was baptized by John, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness where He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. During that time, He was tempted by Satan to turn stones into food. Jesus let Satan know exactly where He stood on this matter. “It is written: Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” (Matthew 44) Jesus was obedient to every word of God. He knew that food brought physical fulfillment but eternal life comes from the Word of God.
We, too, must realize that material items do not define who we are. Filling our souls with the Word of God is all we need to feel complete. The Psalmist reminds us to hide His words in our hearts. (Psalm 119:11) Jesus used the words of scripture to do battle with Satan. The apostle Paul explains in his letter to the Christians at Ephesus that the Word of God is our Sword of the Spirit which gives us understanding and defense against the evil one. They remain our protection, our encouragement, our assurance.
So as we pass through the doorframes of our homes into our everyday lives, let us keep the words of the Lord with us in our minds, our hearts and souls. Let His words and His will be our guiding light and, as we share His words with others, let us become the servants He calls us to be.
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