The Bread and Wine of Destruction

Opening Verse

“For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.”
— Proverbs 4:17 (KJV)

Introduction

Not all meals nourish. Some destroy. The world offers a feast, but it’s not one prepared by the Lord. It’s a table set with wickedness and violence, and many are dining without even realizing the poison in their cup. This verse is a warning: beware what you consume—not just with your mouth, but with your heart, mind, and soul.

Devotional Story

There was a young man who grew up around good teaching but became fascinated by the lives of people who seemed “free.” They did whatever they wanted, said whatever they pleased, and lived with no fear of God. He started spending time with them, laughing at their jokes, watching what they watched, and slowly imitating their ways. At first, it felt exciting. But before long, he found himself full of rage, restless at night, quick to fight, and empty inside. One day, while scrolling on his phone, he came across Proverbs 4:17. It stopped him cold: “They eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.” He realized he had been feeding on destruction. That moment, he dropped to his knees and cried out to God for mercy.

What This Means

This verse speaks about those who delight in sin as if it’s a meal. They consume wickedness like it’s bread. They sip violence like it’s fine wine. Sin is not a joke. What you allow into your heart will come out in your life. If you feast on evil, you will become evil. But if you feed on righteousness, the life of Christ will grow in you. You can’t sit at the world’s table and expect to walk in God’s blessing.

Think About This

What are you feeding your heart daily?
Have you become comfortable with things that once convicted you?
Are you consuming darkness and wondering why you feel far from God?

Prayer

Father, open my eyes to anything wicked I’ve been feeding on. Cleanse my heart and renew my spirit. I don’t want the bread of wickedness or the wine of violence. I want You. Teach me to hunger for righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.”
— Matthew 5:6 (KJV)