Consuming God's Word

I’m a slow eater.

Granted, I have my unladylike moments when wolfing down McD's French fries by the bundles with the tenacity and elegance of a woodchuck. Or when eating popcorn which, in public will be eaten one or two puffs at a time. In private, however, skillfully stuffing an entire handful is customary, as precious salty morsels tumble mournfully to the floor.

But truly, I prefer to eat slowly. I’m usually the last one eating and occasionally the only one remaining at the dinner table. I’ve also been noted for eating around my plate; that is, one item at a time. It’s not that I don’t like to mix foods; I just like to savor one flavor at a time.

And I chew slowly. It goes along with savoring while also making it easier to swallow so I don’t get those weird “I ate too fast” hiccups. 

Chewing slowly is also a good habit to have when partaking of God's Word. I have those moments when, in a hurry to “check off” my daily reading plan, I cram down a few chapters, gnawing through the Bread of Heaven like a woodchuck, as precious portions go unnoticed.

But when I slow down and “chew slowly”, savoring every sweet and tasty morsel of God’s Word, I'm able to draw out deeper truths, savoring each word bursting with promise and hope. It allows for proper digestion and absorption as the Spirit leads for greater nourishment to my soul and spirit.  

I also like to “eat around the plate”--enrichment from the Psalms, wisdom from Proverbs, holiness from the Old Testament, mercy and grace from the New Testament. Every book, chapter and verse inspired by God, planned before the foundation of the world, infused with His amazing love, releasing His perfect plan of salvation throughout to those who come to the table hungry. 

God's Word dispenses nourishment and sustenance for our growing faith, increasing our wisdom and understanding each time we come to the table. Whether you come with a specific serving in mind, or you choose a variety from the elaborate buffet, it's okay. Deep calls to deep, and He's given you the desires of your heart to know Him more. 

Take and eat. This is your bread for today to strengthen and encourage you, and help you produce good fruit.

"Long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord." 1 Peter 2:2,3

“When Your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear Your name, O LORD God Almighty.” (Jer. 15:16

"Slow down...savor...and enjoy My Word. My Word is True and Faithful. Come hungry; come often, that you may grow in grace and in the knowledge of Me. Your desire for Me is evidence of your new birth. My Word will not leave you as I found you, but will transform your heart and mind."

"Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—
how good God is. Blessed are you who run to him”  (Psalm 34:8,MSG)

“I am the Living Bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever”. (John 6:51)

I encourage you Brother or Sister in Christ, to savor God’s Word. Feast abundantly and often, chew slowly, and savor long, as the Spirit of the Word of God nourishes your spirit, and strengthens your soul. And to the one who is searching, ask God to open the eyes of your understanding and for the grace to know Him more.

Taste and see that He is good, then delve into God's Word as if your life depends on it... because it does. And it may just prevent some of life's little hiccups along the way. 

Lord, I have tasted and indeed Your Word is good. Consume us as we consume Your Word. Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. It is the Way I should go, it is the Truth I should feed on, and it is the Life...abundant and everlasting.0 Thank you Father, for Your Word that nourishes and sustains me, that I may walk in a manner worthy of you, glorifying you in my life. Amen.