When it comes to appetite our individual tastes may vary as to what foods we enjoy the most. When someone is dishing up our plate, when it comes to that which we like least we might say, “Oh, just a little of that is fine.” However, when it comes to what we love the most we might say, “I’ll have a heaping helping of that.” That for which we have developed a taste, we want more than a sampling, we want a good portion.
One of the psalmists wrote. . .
“(57) The Lord is my portion; I promise to keep your words.” (Psalm 119:57 ESV)
Have we developed a taste for God and His Word? Have we tasted and seen how good He truly is (Psalm 34:8) and good for us in every way? Are we experiencing the satisfying nourishment He brings to our life?
When Jesus was in the home of Martha and Mary, Maratha was being a good host and busy about serving while her sister Mary was sitting listening to His teaching. (Luke 10:39-40) When Martha complained, we read. . .
“(41) But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, (42) but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”” (Luke 10:41-42 ESV)
The good portion; the words of Jesus! That is what Mary had chosen. Though the body burns up food to nourish and strengthen it, the teaching of Jesus would continue abiding in Mary. Even had Mary gotten up to assist her sister Martha, the words of Jesus she chose to hear would have continued resonating in her mind.
Do we have such a craving for the words of the Lord, understanding it is nourishment that cannot be taken from us? There is more to our existing and being sustained than physical food. Yes, we need to care for the body, but we must never neglect the soul! When Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness prior to beginning His ministry, quoting from Deuteronomy 8:3 we read. . .
“(4) But he answered, “It is written, “ ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ” ” (Matthew 4:4 ESV)
Though Jesus had been fasting and was hungry (Matthew 4:2), He noted a higher need. And there were times when Jesus’ work was His food. (John 4:34) May we also focus on the spiritual nourishment that will not be taken from us!
Have a great day CONTINUING TO DESIRE THE TRULY GOOD PORTION OF GOD!
Carl
———————–
(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
