Bible Reading For Nourishment
20th January 2025
Bible reading can be considered a form of nourishment, not for the body but for the soul and spirit. This perspective is deeply rooted in the Bible itself, where Scripture is often compared to food that sustains, strengthens, and satisfies. Here are ways Bible reading can be understood as nourishment:
1. Spiritual Food
The Bible describes itself as essential for spiritual sustenance, similar to how physical food is vital for the body.
Matthew 4:4: Jesus said, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." This shows that just as physical food sustains the body, God’s Word sustains the spirit. 1 Peter 2:2: "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." Here, the Word is likened to milk, essential for growth and nourishment. 2. Bread of Life
Jesus is described as the "Bread of Life," and His teachings, recorded in the Bible, provide eternal sustenance.
John 6:35: "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst." Engaging with Scripture connects believers to this spiritual nourishment. 3. Sweetness and Satisfaction
The Bible is often depicted as sweet and satisfying, offering joy and renewal to the soul.
Psalm 19:10: "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb." Just as honey delights and energizes, the Word brings joy and strength to the reader. Jeremiah 15:16: "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart." Jeremiah metaphorically "eats" God’s words, indicating internalizing and finding satisfaction in them. 4. Sustaining Power
Bible reading provides strength and guidance during difficult times, just as food provides energy for physical challenges.
Psalm 119:28: "My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word." Scripture acts as a source of spiritual strength and encouragement. Isaiah 55:2: "Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness." This verse highlights the futility of seeking satisfaction outside God’s Word. 5. Growth and Transformation
Bible reading nourishes believers by enabling spiritual growth, transformation, and alignment with God’s will.
Hebrews 5:13-14: "For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." The Word provides different levels of nourishment—milk for beginners and solid food for the mature. Conclusion
Bible reading can be seen as nourishment because it sustains, strengthens, and satisfies the soul. It offers guidance, growth, and joy, much like food sustains physical life. By engaging with Scripture, we are spiritually fed, enabling us to thrive in our relationship with God and in our daily lives.
Daily Bread