More Than Bread for the Day
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Matthew 4:4 KJV
Jesus was hungry when the devil tempted Him to command stones to become bread. Hunger was real, but it did not give the tempter authority to direct the Son of God. Jesus answered with the truth of Scripture.
Food matters, and the Bible does not ask us to despise ordinary physical needs. The passage teaches that life depends upon God and that obedience to His Word cannot be set aside whenever a desire becomes strong. A feeling may be powerful without being a rightful guide.
You may be tired, disappointed, or eager for something you want. Those conditions deserve honest attention, but they do not make a lie or a cruel action right. Seek the help you need while continuing to respect what God has said.
Read Scripture steadily enough to understand the truths you are learning. A remembered verse should not become a slogan removed from its meaning. Let God's Word give direction when temptation suggests that your present desire is the only thing that matters. The Lord's wisdom is trustworthy when your appetite is loud.
Keep the passage in context
Jesus answers the devil's temptation with Scripture, affirming dependence upon every word from God. His response shows faithful submission to the Father rather than using power on the tempter's terms.
Read further: Matthew 4 in the King James Bible.