Bitterness of Stolen Sweets

I enjoy reading the Our Daily Bread devotionals for many reasons. One of those reasons is because in many cases, it is not only relatable but also many of the authors write is such a way that the messages are easy to understand. This allows me to share the devotionals with those I love like my son and oldest grandson. Although I don’t send them the messages daily, but I do when I know it’s based on something they may be struggling with in hopes that it will provide them not only with guidance but hope as well. My son admits that he doesn’t read every one I send, but he does read the ones that stand out to him the most and that I am thankful for because it’s becoming a habit for him and he’s developed a new interest.

My grandson on the other hand does read every one that I send to him. Due to his mother’s faith and watching her through out his life with the choices she makes her kindness, and wanting to serve, it has shown him that there is much more to prayer and faith than what little he was able to grasp as a toddler. He and my daughter and my mother often discuss scripture together and when he doesn’t quite understand, he’ll ask a ton of questions (often from various sources) until it makes sense. Admittedly, I don’t know scripture as well as I should or actually, it’s more so that my memory often fails me so I don’t evangelize or pretend to know the bible as well as I should. The following devotional is one that stood out for my grandson for several reasons and although we discussed certain aspects of it briefly, he and my daughter explored the message further along with some of his teenage friends (some of which had never even opened a bible before this day). This is another reason why I love to share. It’s not about wanting someone to believe in what I believe in or pushing spirituality on them because I wouldn’t want anyone attempting to force something like this on me. It’s simply introducing something new to someone who may or may not have been exposed to it previously and ultimately opening a door for discussion if they choose to. I don’t force my son to come to church because the outcome of what he receives will not be as beneficial as if he is not willing.

( Our Daily Bread Devotional from April 21, 2024 by Marvin Williams)

Thieves in Germany stole a truck’s refrigerated trailer filled with more than twenty tons of chocolate. The estimated worth of the stolen sweetness was $80,000. Local police asked anyone who was offered large quantities of chocolate via unconventional channels to report it immediately. Surely those who stole the massive amount of sweets will be facing bitter and unsatisfying consequences if they’re caught and prosecuted!

Proverbs confirms this principle: “Food gained by fraud tastes sweet, but one ends up with a mouth full of gravel” (20:17). Things we acquire deceptively or wrongfully may seem to be sweet at first—seasoned with excitement and temporary enjoyment. But the flavor will eventually wear off and our deception will lead to our being left wanting and in trouble. The bitter consequences of guilt, fear, and sin can end up ruining our lives and reputations. “Even small children are known by their actions, [if] their conduct [is] really pure and upright” (v. 11). May our words and actions reveal a pure heart for God—not the bitterness of selfish desires.

When we’re tempted, let’s ask God to strengthen us and help us remain faithful to Him. He can help us look behind the short-term “sweetness” of giving in to temptation and guide us to carefully consider the long-term consequences of our choices.

Reflect & Pray

When has temptation led to bitter consequences for you? How can you remain faithful to God?

Dear God, I need Your strength to fight temptation and remain faithful to You.