Listen:
But Jesus answered, ‘It is written, “one does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4)
Reflect:
I love the story that is referenced here. We see Jesus protecting himself from the attacks of the evil one by quoting a scripture from Deuteronomy 8:3. A scripture that refers to the story in Exodus 16:4-36 about how God gave Manna to the Israelites. A story which beautifully illustrates what living by God’s word really means.
If you have a problem, a grief, a longing…somewhere in the Bible, yes there is ‘a word’ for you, but also, there is a story for you!
Because God’s word is so much more than words. It’s about God’s provision and his love. It’s worth reading the story of how God provided Manna in the desert. He told them how and when to gather it. It really is a funny story because those who gathered too much ended up with maggots. It is a lovely story because those who were only able to gather a little, had plenty.
This scripture is all about the benefit of doing what God says to us.
Today I am sharing the burdens of several people who have been bereaved in the last month. Together we seek comfort and draw strength from Jesus’ words. He says ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled’, and he tells us why. (John 14). He has promised, ‘I am with you always’. This echoes Psalm 23, ‘When I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me.’
Today is February 14th. A day to celebrate human love. Where does love come from? ‘Love comes from God.’ (1 John 4:7)
‘I have loved you with an everlasting love.’ (Jer 31:3) and ‘Now remain in my love.’ Says Jesus. (Jn 15:9)
Questions to Ponder:
- Are we missing out? Is now a good time to re-read the gospels and get to know the Jesus we follow even better?
- Will you join me in making the reading and studying of God’s word a higher priority in your life?
- Will you join me in asking the Holy Spirit to teach and re-ignite in us a love for scripture?
Prayer of Response:
Change the words in italics to words that describe how you are feeling today.
Today Lord, I am tired, sad, yet hopeful.
I feel weak, but I know your joy is somewhere not too far away.
I thank you that you are with me.
Today Lord, the sun is shining and I have snowdrops in my garden.
They look so delicate, yet they push through the frozen earth and bloom with hope.
I too am delicate.
Your word, your love, enables me to push through.
Only you can help me blossom,
Only in you, with you, can I bring hope to others.
Amen
—Submitted by Elaine Davis
I am continually surprised by where Lifesprings takes me! Thanking God for the LSM satellite as we share our joys, our interests (here I am with Eddie the Llama) and our sorrows.
Grateful for fun times in the midst of sadness and stress. Now is a season of supporting family and friends as they negotiate what feels like white water rafting!
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