“Turn these stones into bread”, is what I heard. For somewhere in the annals of history my Savior journeyed into the wilderness accompanied by the Holy Spirit of God. And, in his weakness of flesh showed us his humanity and his divinity. For in his divinity he is the image and power of the invisible God.
“Turn these stones into bread” it echoed again and vibrated the fragile body of our Savior. For temptation was now lurking, and the fight for eternity was on. “If you are the Son of God, turn these stones into bread”. What meaneth this strange request and why bring into question his identity?
Was it magic that this serpent was looking for, was it doubt he was trying to create or was it more? These were the stones that would be used to build altars, temples, towers, and even be recognized for its impenetrable qualities. For the strong in faith wear that name, and a woman would be forgiven before a stone could ever touch her. And how about he who is called the “cornerstone”, who would reference himself as such.
Would our Savior submit to temptation and entrust what his hands can do - to fulfill the desperate plea of hunger, or would he trust in every Word that proceedeth from the full counsel of his Father’s mouth? For the moment he trusts in his ability, and what his own hands can mold, he will then certainly teach his offspring to do the same.
But no, he answered and said, “Man does not live by bread alone but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God”. The Words of God are like honey and should be trusted in the midst of any desperate plea. Do not take matters into your own hands and forfeit your obedience to God. For let us not forget he is the same one who causes manna to fall from the sky and feeds the multitude.
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