For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.
—1 Timothy 4:4-5

You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food from the earth and wine to gladden the heart of man, oil to make his face shine and bread to strengthen man’s heart.
—Psalm 104:14-15

And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.’
—Genesis 1:29

Now the house of Israel called its name manna. It was like coriander seed, white, and the taste of it was like wafers made with honey.
—Exodus 16:31

There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God.
—Ecclesiastes 2:24

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Hunger For Life, A Gift
By Jennifer Kane

Thank You, God, for the gift of food—
a daily reminder of Your love,
Your hands open in provision.

From the beginning, You have fed Your people:
fruit from the garden,
manna falling like morning dew,
grain gathered from golden fields.

Every meal before us is a blessing,
a taste of Your goodness,
a sign that You see and sustain.

Teach us to receive with grateful hearts,
never blind to the miracle of daily bread.
May we remember—
it is not only our bodies You nourish,
but our spirits You fill with joy.

Help us to share with open hands,
to welcome others to the table,
that our love may mirror Yours.

Above all, Lord, let us hunger for You,
the true Bread of Life,
our souls satisfied in Your presence.

Bless this food,
the hands that receive it,
the hearts that prepare it,
and the lives it strengthens for Your glory.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Genesis 1:29, Exodus 16:31, Psalm 104:14-15, Ecclesiastes 2:24, 1 Timothy 4:4-5

From the beginning of creation, God has provided food as a sign of His care and provision. In Genesis, He gave Adam and Eve the bounty of the earth, filling it with fruit-bearing trees and nourishing plants. Later, in the wilderness, He sustained Israel with manna, a daily reminder of His faithfulness.

Food is more than just sustenance—it is a gift that reflects God’s goodness. Psalm 104 tells us that He not only provides what we need to live but also what brings joy. Wine, oil, and bread symbolize more than nutrition; they represent God’s desire for us to enjoy His blessings. Even in Ecclesiastes, we are reminded that eating and drinking with satisfaction is not just a routine but a gift from the Lord.

In 1 Timothy, Paul encourages believers to receive food with thanksgiving, recognizing that all good things come from God. In a world where food can be taken for granted or even misused, this is a call to see each meal as an opportunity for gratitude and holiness. Whether feasting or simply sharing a meal with loved ones, we can honor God by acknowledging His provision and giving thanks.

Before your next meal, take a moment to reflect on the food before you. Where did it come from? How has God provided for you? Say a prayer of gratitude, not just for the nourishment but for the joy and fellowship that food brings. Consider sharing a meal with someone who may be lonely or in need, extending God’s love through the simple act of breaking bread together.

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Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of food, a daily reminder of Your love and provision. From the beginning, You have nourished Your people, providing fruit from the garden, manna in the wilderness, and the harvest of the earth. Every meal before us is a blessing, a sign of Your goodness and care.

Teach us to receive our food with gratitude, never taking Your provision for granted. May we remember that You not only sustain our bodies but also fill our hearts with joy. Help us to share what we have with others, reflecting Your love through generosity and hospitality. Above all, Lord, may we hunger for You, the true Bread of Life, and find our deepest satisfaction in Your presence. Bless this food, our hands that receive it, and the hearts that prepare it. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

March 9 2025