29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. Genesis 1:29 NIV
This year we planted green beans in our vegetable garden. They grew to a whopping 2-3 feet…actually the heat stunted their production. So, you can imagine my amazement yesterday, as I picked purple beans from vines that were 8 to 12 feet in length. These purple beans turn back to green when cooked, it is amazing. I know that they are a pole bean variety, but I recognized a gifted gardener who knew what he was doing to produce this field of beans, tomatoes, squash and okra. I was able to harvest a mess from all of it.
When Pam and I went on our first date, she made squash pies. These are similar to pumpkin pies, with squash as the main ingredient. They were delicious. I married a beautiful, sophisticated, country girl who can cook some great food. My family and I have been blessed.
I’m not a vegetarian, but I do understand that God laid out a plan for us to live daily in health. Notice what God told Adam and Eve…I give you seed bearing plants, and fruit from trees for food. What’s your favorite vegetable to eat? What fruit is your go to fruit? God gave these to us to enjoy over meals together. Processed foods may last a long time, but the healthiest choices are from fruits and veggies. It takes live food for living bodies.
Part of stewarding the earth involves managing our food supplies and crops. Pray for our farmers, both small and large. They exhibit great faith as they plant seed and wait for the harvest. It is a challenge to trust the right amount of water, heat, and sunlight, while escaping fires, insects, disease and other hazards. We expect stores to have a good selection in the fresh food area. There is a LOT of work to get the produce to the store. Pray for farmers and all of the distribution entities.
God addressed eating meat in the dietary laws in Leviticus. Those details are great guidelines to keep in mind for healthy eating. Everything is covered with the washing of hands, how to cook properly and the disposal of waste.
On this Monday Mantra, may you be encouraged to give God thanks for the food which is available to you. Much hard work has been done for your enjoyment. Jesus referred to a banquet meal that He will share with us in heaven. I pray you will be at the meal.
Food is a gift which includes vegetables, fruit and meat. May God bless you with a heart and mouth of gratitude for the food which He has given.
Blessings, Love y’all