04
Dangerous Fake Feeding
Rod ShimabukuroJesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” John 6:26-29 ESV
Physical food is compared to spiritual food: Bread to eat for the stomach and bread to receive for eternal life. Jesus is the Bread of Life, who gives eternal life. This kind of bread is not to be labored for. Crowds would ask what to DO to for God to get fed this spiritual food? The answer...believe. Jesus tells them plainly...[33] For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” [34] They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.” [35] Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. John 6:33-35. John also continues to draw from Jesus’ journey, stringing the imagery of water, thirst, water to wine, baptism, the well - together. Spiritual drink includes believing in the Living Water.
Too many Christians start off believing, by faith, trusting Jesus in all things, sensing the pleasure of God in identity and being. I’m one of them who experienced spiritual food by believing, trusting in Jesus for life. Yet - like other Christians...I find myself drifting into WORKING or DOING spiritual works for God -as if that is feeding me spiritually.
There is a spiritual act of service that can be God glorifying - but yet I can become so DOING or WORKS oriented (not for salvation) but for approval and affirmation. YUK. That is dangerous ”false“ feeding. My food becomes an earthly craving for applause, affirmation, acceptance and approval...all on the basis of works for God.
Oh God have Great Mercy on Me!!
That’s my simple prayer God....Have Great Mercy on Me and please forgive me for going after Fake Food! I’m so unhappy with my earthly, sinful part of me. Yuk!! Thank You for working in me pure desires and motives to want to be like You! You are soooooo Kind, Good and Loving!
