Part of our BSF lesson for the past week was Matthew 13:51-52. Jesus is telling his disciples that one who has received instruction about the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a house who brings out both his old and new treasures to share with others. We have past experiences and knowledge about Christ, and we should also have new things to share with others about what Christ is doing in our lives this week. Our teaching leader compared this to our pantry, and she said that if we are faithful to put things in our pantry, God will be faithful to bring them out when they are needed by ourselves or others. She also made the comment that nothing gets into our pantry unless we put it there.
As the sole grocery shopper in our household, this is true for me both literally and spiritually. It reminded me of the other night, when I went to the pantry for taco seasoning and found that I had neglected to buy it. (This is not a rare occurrence that I am missing one ingredient that I need!) So that night, our taco soup was a little bland. And in the same way, if I am not faithful to be studying God’s Word and meditating on His truth and promises, my spiritual pantry is lacking some ingredients. So when I hit a tough spot or a friend needs encouragement or counsel, I am not prepared. My advice, encouragement or response to the situation will be empty and superficial, not flavored with the awesome truth of the Gospel.
As the mother of a 2-year-old (as of today!) and an almost-4-year-old, I have an additional responsibility to keep my pantry well-stocked. As much as my kids love fruit snacks, they would not be healthy if that was we ever pulled out of the pantry. I need to stock my pantry with a variety of nutritious foods that give their growing bodies what they need. Likewise, I need to prepare spiritually to respond to their questions, worries and disobedience with the truth of the God’s Word. As they grow, we will face more complex issues and situations, and I need to be prepared. I have a feeling it will get a lot more complicated than quoting I Corinthians 13 when he is provoking his brother! I’m so thankful for biblical preaching at our church and for BSF, which encourage me to saturate myself with God’s Word. When the trials come, I don’t want to be standing in front of my pantry without the taco seasoning.
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What a great analogy…. I definitely feel like I need to restock my pantry these days! I was unexpectedly on the receiving end of some news from an acquaintance having serious marital problems, and felt totally unprepared. Thanks for sharing all the great things you’re learning at BSF!