Daily Delight Devotional – Monday, July 8, 2024
How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!
– Psalm 119:103, NKJV
Everyone needs food. Very few people can survive for more than 3 months without food. As soon as it’s past 5 days, a typical man starts to lose strength and willpower and depend on their body fat for survival. If a physical man cannot do without food, why should a man of the Spirit go for days, weeks, or months without God’s word? Jesus quoted the scriptures to say that man shall not live by bread alone (Matthew 4:4) to emphasize the importance of God’s word.
Developing a deep hunger for God’s Word is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. Just as physical food nourishes our bodies, the Bible nourishes our souls. Cultivating a desire to study and know the Bible begins with recognizing its value and making it a priority in our lives. The psalmist in Psalm 119:103 expresses delight in God’s Word, describing it as sweeter than honey. The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom, guidance, and comfort when we delve deeper into its pages.
Developing a hunger for the Bible requires intentional effort. Just as we schedule time for meals, we must set aside dedicated time for reading and studying Scripture. Some people have time to snack in between meals. Why not create that for your spiritual meal? Establishing a regular routine, whether in the morning, during lunch breaks, or before bed, helps build consistency and make Bible study a natural part of our daily lives.
This kind of routine allows you to engage with the Bible actively. You can do more of this by reading different translations, using study guides, participating in Bible study groups, or taking notes or journaling insights and reflections from the Word of God you read. Active engagement helps to deepen understanding and retention of Scripture.
And when you engage with the scriptures, reflect. The blessedness is not just to read or hear the word. It is also to do it (James 1:22). Lastly, ask God to increase your desire for His Word. The Psalmist prayed, “Incline my heart to Your testimonies, and not to covetousness.” (Psalm 119:36) Praying for a heart that longs for Scripture and seeks God’s truth will help cultivate a deeper hunger for His Word.
Insight: Developing a hunger for God’s Word begins with recognizing its value, making it a priority.
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize its value and make it a priority in my life.
Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 5-9