Our Daily Bread

Oranges or milk?

Solid food belongs to those who are

of full age. — Hebrews 5:14 When I told my young daughter that a three- month- old baby boy was coming to our house for a visit, she was delighted. With a child’s sense of hospitality, she suggested that we share some of our food with the baby; she thought he might enjoy a juicy orange from the bowl on our kitchen counter. I explained that the baby could drink only milk, but that he might like oranges when he was older.

The Bible uses a similar concept to describe a believer ’ s need for spiritual food. The basic truths of Scripture are like milk — they help new Christians thrive and grow (1 Peter 2: 2- 3). In contrast, “Solid food belongs to those who are of full age” ( Heb. 5: 14). Believers who have had time to digest and understand the basics can move on to investigate other biblical concepts and begin to teach others these truths. The rewards of spiritual maturity are discernment ( v. 14), godly wisdom ( 1 Cor. 2: 6), and the ability to communicate God’s truth to others ( Heb. 5: 12).

Like a loving parent, God wants us to grow spiritually. He knows that feeding only on spiritual milk is not in our best interest. He wants us to move on so we can enjoy the taste of solid food.

— Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Dear Lord, please deepen my understanding of Your Word. Let Your Holy Spirit guide me and enlighten my heart as I pursue Your truth so that I might walk in Your ways.

READ: Hebrews 5:5-14 Spiritual growth occurs when faith is cultivated.

The Bible in one year:

• Jeremiah 43-45

• Hebrews 5