These days my kids tend to eat more snacks than actual meals. It seems like they graze all day on goldfish, raisins, yogurt, cheese sticks and squeezable applesauce. They can hardly sit down for a real meal. I wish it were different, but as long as they are growing and continue to have a good appetite, I am okay with these quick, hopefully, healthy alternative nourishment methods.
This reminds me of the stage I am in as a busy mom. I don’t always get the luxury to sit down for a healthy meal, but usually grab a banana or granola bar. Sometimes my devotion life looks similar to this as well. I may only get a short time to read a verse or two in the Bible. Those nuggets of truth are usually the exact words I need to nourish my soul for that day.
As I was reading through one of Jesus’ sermons, I saw how He helps to structure His Word in edible chunks. He knows that I might not be able to absorb all His teaching in one big chunk. There needs to be ways for me to memorize and meditate on His words – in small edible bites.
The following verses provide great edible bites for me to chew on today. I like they way The Message Bible shares them. These are known as the Beatitudes. Edible bites to help me change my attitude. Matthew 5:3-11
- You are blessed when you’re at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule.
- You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
- You’re blessed when you’re content with just who you are – no more, no less. That’s the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.
- You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God. He’s food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.
- You’re blessed when you care. At the moment of being ‘care-full’, you find yourselves cared for.
- You’re blessed when you get your inside world – your mind and heart – put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.
- You’re blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete and fight. That’s when you discover who you really are, and your place in God’s family.
- You’re blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God’s kingdom.
- Not only that – count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable.
God’s words are powerful. They can provide nourishment for today and perspective for tomorrow. I just need to make sure I take the time to get a few edible bites in everyday. Nourishment of my soul will help myself, my family and others around me.
Edible Bites
Life-changing. Teachable. Nourishment.
What little bite of truth is God wanting to share with you today to nourish your soul?