Few aromas prove more delightful than fresh bread from the oven. A large, industrial bakery operates not far from where I live. They bake thousands of loaves of bread there a day. To drive by when bread fills the ovens and the wind’s just right is to experience a slice of heaven. I’m surprised more people don’t close their eyes and run off the road.

After Jesus fasted 40 days in the wilderness, the devil pitched the idea of fresh, warm bread. I wonder if Jesus smelled its aroma at that moment?

Jesus rebuked that temptation with man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. He referenced Deuteronomy 8:3, where bread refers to manna the children of Israel enjoyed during their own wilderness experience.

Jesus underscored the value of God’s Word in my life. My soul needs the word of God just like my body needs food and water. The hunger I experience throughout the day reflects the craving my soul experiences for the scriptures. Next time you power into a meal, remember your soul patiently waits its turn at the table.

Perhaps the angst we experience in this world points to a hangry soul. When I fail to keep my body nourished I slide into a crabby version of myself. I lose willpower and grab handfuls of junk food. My body softens, and I realize I need to eat better. Likewise, my soul only flourishes and grows vibrant with a steady diet of God’s Word.

Like God surprised the people of Israel with manna in the desert, God’s Word will delight your soul. It’s like adding sweet, creamy butter to warm bread. Nothing compares.

Matthew 4 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by Monika Grabkowska