Yesterday, we had an amazing Bible study. It lasted two and a half hours, but the fellowship in the presence of the Lord was so rich that we barely noticed the time. One of us shared a beautiful habit she has with her children—reading a chapter of Proverbs each day based on the date. For example, since today is the 20th, they read Proverbs 20.
Throughout the day, they discuss what stood out to them. Since Proverbs has 31 chapters, this means they complete the book every month, reading it 12 times in a year. How can you not grow in wisdom with such a practice? We all challenged ourselves to do the same, and since today is the 20th, let me share what struck me from Proverbs 20.
Proverbs 20:17 NLT
“Stolen bread tastes sweet, but it turns to gravel in the mouth.”
This verse spoke directly to my heart. It is so simple, yet it carries deep truth. What caught my attention was the part about gravel in the mouth. Stolen bread tastes sweet at first—there is excitement, thrill, and even a sense of satisfaction. But as you enjoy that sweetness, suddenly, it turns into gravel.
Now, imagine having a mouth full of soft, delicious bread, and in an instant, it transforms into gravel. Is gravel sweet? No. Is gravel chewable? No. It is as hard as a rock. So as you try to chew, who gets hurt? Whose teeth start breaking? Even when you spit it out, small particles of dirt remain in your mouth. The pleasure turns into pain.
But here’s something to note: not all bread turns into gravel. Only stolen bread does.
Stealing something or someone may seem exciting at first. It may feel like you’re getting ahead in life. But it’s just a matter of time before that stolen bread turns into gravel. This applies to jobs, positions, relationships, friendships—everything. When you take what is not yours, whether through deceit, manipulation, or impatience, you will eventually regret it.
That sweet bread turning into gravel could even symbolize sickness, distress, or deep regret. What once seemed like a good decision becomes a source of pain.
This is why we must learn to wait on God to bless us with what is rightfully ours. When He gives, He gives good things. His bread remains sweet. His blessings bring no sorrow.
One of the reasons I struggle to share from the book of Proverbs is because every single verse is a well of wisdom. I could write endlessly about one verse and still not exhaust its meaning. But I believe the message is clear: It is not good to steal bread. It may taste sweet at first, but the Word of God warns us—it will turn into gravel in our mouths.
I don’t think any sensible person would willingly choose to chew gravel.
Let’s be patient. Let’s trust in the Lord’s timing. Let’s not steal bread, please.
God bless you. Have a beautiful day. 🖤