What More Do We Need?

This week's devotion is authored by Becky Blake, prayer co-coordinator for our ministry expansion campaign

“Man shall not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

As we conclude our congregational journey through “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23,” may we have a fresh set of eyes and understanding of this well-known passage — to see more clearly the power and goodness of our Lord. May we feel assured in Jesus leading us as a loving and compassionate shepherd does, caring for his flock through the various landscapes of life, from the gentle pasturelands to the darkest valley. W. Phillip Keller has a powerful way of combining his insights and knowledge — required for the tender, demanding, and exhausting care of sheep — with the Word of God. Each verse in Psalm 23 shows a God who cares for us, protects us, provides for us, and leads us from life here to life eternal. What more do we need?

Our Father’s love and care for us are inexhaustible. Despite our failures, shortcomings, and wanderings, He seeks to reclaim us time and time again. What a beautiful reminder that no matter where we are in life, the Great Shepherd of our soul is actively pursuing us, seeking intimacy and relationship with each of us. He is the One who oversees every detail of our lives, and we are safely held (Psalm 139).

As we wrap up this book study, let us be encouraged to continue to have the desire to know our living God more and more: seeking Him, listening to His voice (John 10:26-28), being saturated in His living, active Word (Hebrews 4:12), and gaining a deeper understanding of the nature and character of our Savior, who is seen throughout all of Scripture. He is the door to the sheepfold (John 10:9), not a way, but the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). May we continuously be fed with His Word and the spiritual sustenance and refreshment it offers in all seasons and circumstances. Jesus Himself assures us, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). What more do we need?

Chapters 1-12 • Conclusion of book study

How can you apply the principle of living by every word of God in your daily life?

Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens

LSB Hymn 589, Stanzas 3 & 4

Lord, Your words are waters living

When my thirsting spirit pleads.

Lord, Your words are bread life-giving;

On Your words my spirit feeds.

Lord, Your words will be my light

Through death’s cold and dreary night;

Yes, they are my sword prevailing

And my cup of joy unfailing!

As I pray, dear Jesus, hear me;

Let Your words in me take root.

May Your Spirit e’er be near me

That I bear abundant fruit.

May I daily sing Your praise,

From my heart glad anthems raise,

Till my highest praise is given

In the endless joy of heaven.

About Mindful Monday Devotions

In our season of celebration with Tell the Wonders He Has Done, we continue in our prayerful focus as we look to the months and years ahead with thanksgiving. Join us as we remain in God's strong Word each Monday morning.