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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 8 - Verse 3

8:3
And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.

Meaning

This verse, found in Deuteronomy 8:3, highlights the importance of humility and reliance on God. The passage reflects on how God humbled the Israelites and allowed them to experience hunger in order to teach them a valuable lesson. By feeding them with manna, a miraculous food, God demonstrated that physical sustenance is not the only thing needed for life. The verse emphasizes that spiritual nourishment, symbolized by "every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD," is equally essential for human survival.

In a broader sense, this verse serves as a reminder for readers to prioritize their spiritual well-being and trust in God's guidance. It encourages individuals to go beyond material comforts and to seek sustenance from the teachings of the Lord. By emphasizing the significance of divine words, the verse underscores the transformative power of faith and the importance of placing one's trust in God. Through this message, readers are reminded to approach life with humility, gratitude, and a deep-seated belief in the spiritual nourishment provided by God.

Theological Overview

Within this verse from Deuteronomy, there is a profound theological interpretation that reminds believers of their reliance on God's providence and sustenance. The concept of God humbling the Israelites and allowing them to hunger before providing manna serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and ability to meet all of their needs. The word study of "manna" reveals that it was a miraculous food provided by God to sustain His people in the desert. This sustenance, which was unknown to them and their ancestors, signifies God's faithfulness and ability to provide for His people in unexpected ways. The phrase "man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD" emphasizes the spiritual nourishment that God provides, which transcends physical sustenance. The word study of "word" highlights that it represents the divine utterances and promises of God that sustain believers in their faith journey. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting in God's provision and seeking spiritual sustenance beyond just physical needs.

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