We are what we consume—not just physically, but spiritually. Just as our bodies require the right nutrients to function properly, our spirits also need proper nourishment to thrive. The Bible reminds us in Matthew 4:4, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” This verse highlights that while food sustains our bodies, it is God’s Word that sustains our souls.
The Impact of Daily Influences
Every day, we take in a variety of influences—what we watch, read, listen to, and the conversations we engage in. These things either build our faith or weaken it. Proverbs 4:23 warns us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” If we constantly consume negativity, fear, or worldly distractions, we will struggle spiritually. However, if we intentionally feed ourselves with God’s truth, encouragement, and wisdom, we will grow in strength and faith.
What Are You Feeding Your Spirit?
Here are some key areas to evaluate:
1. Your Thoughts and Mindset
What occupies your mind most of the day? Philippians 4:8 instructs us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy. If our thoughts are filled with worry, doubt, or resentment, we are feeding our spirit the wrong things. Instead, we should meditate on God’s promises, filling our minds with His peace and hope.
2. Your Media Consumption
What we watch and listen to has a profound effect on our spiritual well-being. Social media, TV shows, music, and books can either edify or corrupt. Psalm 101:3 says, “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.” We must ask ourselves: Is this drawing me closer to God, or pulling me away?
3. Your Conversations and Relationships
Who are you surrounding yourself with? 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” Our relationships should encourage spiritual growth, not hinder it. Are your conversations filled with gossip, complaints, and negativity? Or are they uplifting and centered on God’s truth?
4. Your Prayer and Worship Life
A healthy spirit requires regular communion with God. If we neglect prayer and worship, we leave ourselves spiritually malnourished. Jesus often withdrew to pray, showing us that time with the Father is essential (Luke 5:16). How often do you pause to seek Him in the middle of your busy life?
5. Your Time in the Word
God’s Word is our daily bread. Joshua 1:8 instructs us, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night.” Reading the Bible should not be an afterthought but a priority. It strengthens, renews, and guides us.
Choosing Spiritual Nourishment
If you realize that you’ve been feeding your spirit things that drain rather than sustain you, it’s not too late to change. Make a conscious decision to:
- Spend more time in God’s presence.
- Choose edifying books, music, and conversations.
- Surround yourself with faith-filled people.
- Meditate on Scripture daily.
- Guard your heart against influences that weaken your faith.
Final Thought
Your spirit is a garden, and whatever you plant in it will grow. Will you plant seeds of faith, truth, and righteousness? Or will you allow weeds of doubt, fear, and negativity to take root?
Take time today to reflect: What are you feeding your spirit? Your spiritual health depends on it.
Scripture to Reflect On:
Matthew 4:4 – “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Philippians 4:8 – “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right…think about such things.”
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