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His Declaration Sustains Me

Here are some 'new' insights I got after reading a bunch of commentaries on a 'common' verse, Matthew 4:4.

My biggest realization is that the phrase 'live by every word that comes from God' most probably does not mean 'live in obedience to the commands of God' but rather, looking at the context Deuteronomy 8:3 is set in, we live by reason of every word uttered by God that preserves our life, words spoken by God which effects the preservation of our life in extraordinary supernatural ways.

In other words, I live not solely dependent on 'bread' (which I by default assume) but actually by the words of God that creates 'manna' for me. God is my sustainer and provider, declaring into being alternative supernatural resources I have access to that will keep me alive! If I depend on Him, I do not need to take things into my own hands and transgress the laws of nature (and God) to meet a need.

Live a life in complete confidence that God is able to provide and support when I am in destitute of supply. His word will bring forth manna. Wait for it.

God's provision of manna as an answer to a need for bread shows how God provides but not as we expect. Be open to alternative answers (that God has) that meet our needs. Depend on God's promise and pledge for all our needful providential care.

What is then man's duty when in need of the necessaries of life? Unbelieving murmuring, frequent desperation (like the Israelites) and the snatching despairingly at unwanted relief is completely unacceptable. Trust God for manna. Wait in faith and hope for His providential rescue.

Manna - God's alternative provision, summoned by Him to meet our need(s).


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