Tag Archives: soul food

Living on Life Support

Several years ago my Aunt Tonya was diagnosed with an aggressive form of ALS.  Three months later, she was hanging on by a thread, living on life support.  Whenever you experience the frailty of life up close, a helpless feeling consumes one’s soul.  Less than four months after her first doctor’s visit, Tonya passed away.

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me, John 15:4.

From a spiritual perspective, meditation, prayer, reading the Bible and worship are four food groups for the human soul.  Unfortunately, like trying to eat healthy, it doesn’t take much to stray off course.  Before you know it, each poor decision can sap bodies of their energy.  Thus, if human beings do not receive a daily dose of spiritual soul food, it won’t be long until these individuals will be clinging to a different kind of life support.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10.

Anyone who is tuned in to current events, may make an additional connection.  As the Middle East battles for control, refuges are crossing the borders into Europe to escape death, persecution and turmoil.  While segments of society are doing okay, the rest of the world is falling apart.  People are searching for hope, peace and love without much success.  Therefore, if you want to possess the ability to breathe on your own again, ask the Holy Spirit to fill your empty cup with the abundant life.

by Jay Mankus

Soul Food

The origin of soul food can be traced back to enslaved African Americans.  While their masters received the choice cuts of each prepared meal, servants relied on leftovers or undesirable pieces to eat.  Making the best with any ingredient they could scrounge together, soul food describes this ethnic cuisine cooked with southern hospitality.

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” – Matthew 22:37

Spiritually speaking, the soul is the essence of an individual.  Thus, when you do something with everything inside of you, a portion of the soul is displayed.  However, just like human beings, the soul needs food to enrich the lives of people.  Without nurturing the soul, a void will continue to persist.

What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? – Matthew 16:26

The Bible is the only source that revitalizes souls, Hebrews 4:12.  While maintaining a healthy diet is important, prayer can rejuvenate a weak or dying soul, 3 John 1:2.  Therefore, the next time you enjoy an all you can eat buffet, don’t forget to stop by the dessert table with Bible reading, meditation and prayer so after you’re finish you can say it is well with my soul.

by Jay Mankus