Man shall not live by bread alone
The devil’s first temptation put to Jesus, is to prove that he was Son of God by turning stone into bread, thereby making his own well-being his life's goal. Jesus rebuffs him saying that serving oneself first, prioritizing one's individual desires for security or gratification, can never lead to a fully human life.
It is amazing how this temptation, while not spoken so dramatic, has come to be so taken for granted in the modern world. There is an unspoken norm that the first order of business is to see about oneself. There was even a phrase made popular in business books and movies ‘Greed is Good’.
This selfish attitude is the antithesis of the Kingdom of God values, in which the primary motive is service to another. Jesus’ response to the devil’s temptation reminds us that true fulfillment is found not in self-centered interests but in self-giving love. The Gospel calls us to trust in God’s providence rather than hoard resources for our own security, to seek the good of others rather than prioritize personal gain.
In today’s culture, the pursuit of wealth, comfort, and personal success is often framed as the highest aspiration. Many measure their worth by their financial achievements or social status, believing that security and happiness are products of material accumulation.
Jesus offers a different path—one where life is sustained not by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. When we live in radical trust, putting love and service before self-interest, we participate in the divine life and experience the joy of true freedom.
Friend, if you are struggling with financial challenges, you may not find this comforting. But I can assure you, as a couple who have gradually embraced these radical values, they work. When we seek out the Kingdom of God, all these things fall into place, not without struggle.
And for those who have been blessed with material wealth, there is a deep joy in sharing your blessings. I particularly thank those of you who are patrons to this online ministry.
Thank you, Deacon for these words of encouragement. I know you’re speaking as someone has gone through difficulties of your own so when you say that seeking the Kingdom of God first works, I fully trust these words.