Getting Fed

I love food. Maybe a little too much. In the USA, many of us have been spoiled and take for granted that there will always be something there for us. Even though I love taste, variety, and filling my stomach, the main purpose is to provide nutrients for the body. I love to go to a Wednesday morning Men’s Study to get fed spiritually. Do we always agree on everything? Not always. I don’t always eat everything at a buffet either... only that which I believe to be good. I really wanted to go today, as I desire every Wednesday, but before going to bed last night, it became obvious that it would not be wise due to the infection in my leg. It still needed rest. I don’t know if we always think about feeding our spiritual needs. Physically, if I don’t eat for a while, my stomach will let me know with hunger pains. Is our spiritual life intimate enough to feel the hunger to know Jesus more? Our spiritual hunger should not be fed only when we feel the need, but to continue to satisfy the longing that God places in the hearts of those that have surrendered to Him. With physical food, if we eat too much, we get overweight, and it starts affecting our health. This is not true for our spiritual growth. The more we grow in our understanding of God and His word, the stronger we become, and the better we are able to serve Him. Knowledge for the sake of knowledge can lead to complacency, pride, or a false sense of security. Without the Holy Spirit’s leading, the knowledge may be of little consequence. Like food, our spirit craves to be fed. Are we still drinking milk, satisfied with bare essentials, or are we desiring more nourishment in God’s word, to grow strong, healthy, and productive? Are we eating spiritual junk food, things that make us feel good, but don’t really nourish the soul? Are you faithfully worshiping, with other believers if possible? Are you spending time in God’s word, not just reading, but studying, memorizing, and applying what you learn? Are you spending time with other believers in studying God’s word (at church or in homes) so that you can challenge and sharpen each other in your faith? We want an assurance of eternity with God and yet we often don’t live in that frame of mind. Yes, we are saved by grace, but we need to live our faith out. God of all mercy, we can become spiritually malnourished by seeking “sweets” instead of a nourishing meal. Feed us on Your word. Amen