Why is it that when we say, “This is the last crisp I’m going to eat,” five minutes later we’re looking for more? Michael Moss answers that question in his book Salt Sugar Fat. He describes how snack producers know how to ‘help’ people crave junk food. In fact, one popular company spent over £20 million a year and hired ‘crave consultants’ to determine the bliss point for consumers so it could exploit our food cravings.
Unlike that company, Jesus helps us to long for real food—spiritual food—that brings satisfaction to our souls. He said, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:35). By making this claim, He communicated two important things: Firstly, the bread of which He spoke is a person, not a commodity (v. 32). Secondly, when people put their trust in Jesus for forgiveness of sin, they enter into a right relationship with Him and find fulfilment for every craving of their soul. This Bread is everlasting, spiritual food that leads to satisfaction and life.
When we place our trust in Jesus, the true bread from heaven, we’ll crave Him, and He’ll strengthen and transform our lives.
By Marvin Williams
REFLECT & PRAY
Why do you think we crave things we know can never satisfy the deepest cravings of our souls? What are some practical ways you can crave Jesus more?
Jesus, Bread of Life, may I crave You and find all I need in Your perfect provision.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The gospel of John includes seven “I am” statements of Jesus. Each of these statements reveals something about Him that helps us understand Him better and is supported by something He’s done. The first of these statements—“I am the bread of life”—comes after Jesus had just fed the five thousand (6:35). The remaining statements are found in chapters 8–15: “I am the light of the world” (8:12); “I am the gate [or door]” (10:7); “I am the good shepherd” ( v. 11); “I am the resurrection and the life” (11:25); “I am the way and the truth and the life” (14:6); “I am the true vine” (15:1).
Alyson Kieda
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