Introductory Thoughts
The Bible says that God provides food for His people (Matthew 6:26). This God-given provision has been that way since the beginning of man’s existence on earth (Genesis 1:29). Interestingly, the Bible also says that God provides food for the animal kingdom (Psalm 147:9). One might declare that “the animals must go out and search for food to eat” and “men must go to work and earn wages in order to purchase their food.” However, a good response to this mind-set would be to focus on how men and animals are able to get their food: “Who gives the animals the strength and the prowess to find the food?” or “Who gives man the health and ability to work his job, earn his wages, and purchase his food?” With a more objective mind-set, you can see why man owes God thanks for the food that he eats. Every Christian should bow his head and give thanks to God for His provision before partaking of any meal.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Ephesians 5:20 says, Giving thanks always for all things unto God. This thankfulness includes giving God thanks for the food we eat. Jesus gave thanks before He fed the 4,000 (Matthew 15:36) and also gave thanks before feeding the 5,000 (John 6:11).
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(For everyone): What does it mean to receive food with thanksgiving? What kinds of food are to be refused? How often do you pause and thank God for your food before eating?
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Although some people choose to use scare tactics to get others to pray before eating, what are some things that might actually happen when one forgets to thank God for his food?
Prayer Thoughts
- Thank God for His provision for your food.
- Ask God to help you be mindful that your food comes from Him.
Song
COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
