March 12, 2025

TEXT:     Matthew 4:1-4; Luke 4:1-4

Introduction: Where is it written? (Deuteronomy 8:3)

>Our physical body does need to be cared for

>Our spiritual being is eternal and much more critical to keep healthy

>Fasting and Praying helps us keep our priority of feeding our inner man over the outer

1. We must feed our body to survive—physical existence
   1. Our body needs to be hydrated to survive (Psalm 42:1-2)
      1. God provided the need of water for His people Israel in the wilderness
      2. God uses the need for water physically to speak to our need of Him and His Word
   2. Our body needs to be nourished to survive
      1. God used Joseph in Egypt to nourish His people Israel (Genesis 45:11; 50:21)
      2. God use birds and a widow to help nourish His servant in a drought (I Kings 17:1-16)
   3. Our body needs to be exercised to survive (I Timothy 4:8)
2. We must feed our flesh to revive—physical health
   1. Our flesh needs vitamins to revive itself
   2. Our flesh needs minerals to revive itself
   3. Our flesh needs nutrients to revive itself
      1. Carbohydrates for energy
      2. Proteins for cell maintenance and repair
      3. Fatty acids for cell production and hormonal health
      4. Fiber for digestive function, regulating blood sugar levels, lowering cholesterol

3. We must feed our soul to thrive—spiritual wellness

1. 1. 1. To flourish in life (Proverbs 2:1-5)
      2. To prosper personally (Joshua 1:8-9; Psalm 1:2-3; 119:11)
      3. To succeed in life and eternity (Psalm 37:30-31)
         1. Succeed with God’s blessings in this life
         2. Succeed with God’s will being done in your life
         3. Succeed with God’s rewards in eternity