TASTE AND SEE
Official Newsletter of the Life Harvest Food Pantry
“New Year, New Me!” This declaration rarely holds true, but the sentiment behind it is clear The beginning of a new year often brings new found motivation, fresh goals, and, most commonly, the resolution to adopt better eating habits by focusing on how to steward essential nutrients These substances are required growth, development, and wellness, and are critical for maintaining life Since they cannot be made in sufficient quantities by the body alone they need to be consumed through food and in some cases, supplements However, when it comes to spiritual growth and transformation, there are no supplement options. The Word of God is the only essential nourishment that can bring true and lasting transformation. The Lord desires for us to draw closer to Him, not only in our personal walk but also in unity with His people. Unity and community exist because they originate in the very nature of God. As one God in three persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) He has always existed in perfect unity and fellowship within Himself. Because we are made in His image, He calls us to live in unity with Him and with one another.
In Nehemiah chapter eight the children of Israel were gathering for what was essentially their New Year celebration (Rosh Hashanah), a time of remembrance, resolution, and recommitment. It was during this time that Ezra, a scribe and priest, opened the scrolls of the Law of Moses (the first five books of the Bible) and read them out loud at the celebration to men, women and youth old enough to understand. What took place that day was no ordinary gathering but a transformative encounter with God. It was an encounter that involved more than just hearing words; it was a feast for their souls, reinvigorating them from within. How were they nourished and How did God’s Word work on their hearts?
All the People Gathered as One. They took the initiative to come together and asked Ezra to read the Word to them. The crowd was so large that the Temple courtyard could not contain them, so they worshiped in the streets. This serves as a reminder that God is not confined to a specific place. United in purpose, they sought the Lord.
“And all the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate. And they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had commanded Israel.”
Nehemiah 8:1
Hebrews 2:1
“yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us.”
2 Corinthians 7:9
All the People Worshiped. After reading the Scriptures, all the people responded with a resounding, “Amen, Amen,” and lifted up their hands They bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground (Nehemiah 8:6) This not only reflects their outward reverence but also the posture of their hearts While standing is an external sign of respect, it is gratitude, a sincere heart, and true worship that God desires United in humility, they exalted the Lord
All the People Wept. The Word of God reveals truths about who God is, who we are, and shines light on areas where we fall short. The reading of Scripture brought the people to a place of awareness in which their sins were revealed to them. United in conviction, they lamented to the Lord.
All the People Were Encouraged. The Word of God encourages us. Ezra, Nehemiah, and the Levites (priests) told the people, “do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” While conviction is uncomfortable, it is a gift that is vital for transformation and spiritual growth, as it helps us recognize the need for change. We can find joy in conviction, knowing that it is evidence of God actively working in our lives. It is a manifestation of His grace and signals his desire for us to become more like Him. Conviction is a reminder that God is a forgiving God. United in grace and truth they found strength in the Lord.
All the People Rejoiced. They were joyful because they gained a deeper understanding of the Scriptures and had come to know God more intimately. Their excitement wasn’t merely an emotional response, but a reaction to the truth they had internalized. With this newfound understanding, they were not only better equipped to obey God, but their obedience became more wholehearted and aligned with His will. United in understanding they grew closer to the Lord.
reflect, or even neglect it altogether. With Scripture so readily available, we may take it for granted, forgetting how precious it is, especially when many throughout history longed for the chance to read it and meditate on it. In the New Testament church in Acts 1–5, believers were united in prayer, fellowship, and devotion to the apostles teaching of the scriptures. Day by day, they immersed themselves in God’s truth. As we carry on through year, let us not settle for empty spiritual calories by running after empty things that cannot profit or deliver. Instead, may we commit to nourishing our hearts, minds, and souls with the richness of God’s Word both individually and collectively. Draw near to Jesus Christ and he will draw near to you!
Nourish and refresh your heart and mind with God’s Word.
onsider utilizing fitness and wellness apps. Whether you want to gain or ose weight, stay consistent with your medications, drink more water, meal rep, find healthy recipes, or track habits, there are apps for just about verything These tools can be enjoyable and help you stay accountable
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Have questions about Jesus, the Bible, BGC, or the Life Harvest Food Pantry? Please emaill questions to lhfp@baptistgrovechurch org of hosts ” -Jeremiah 15:16
Daily Prayer
Lord, thank you for giving us your Word so that we may know you When we draw near to you, You draw near to us and we thank you. Please help us to hunger for your Word, understand it, and abide in it daily In Jesus name, Amen
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for informational purposes only It does not constitute
advice or professional services Those seeking or in need of personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician Individuals should also consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to their diet or lifestyle
