Someone has called the sunflower seed "The Miracle Food." They are one of the richest seed foods in nutritional value, containing 25% protein, putting them on the same protein level as meat. They contain liberal amounts of vitamins, especially A, B-complex, and E. The mineral content includes calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron. Sunflower seeds are also very tasty, whether eaten by themselves, or added to favorite dishes. They also come in their own little casing (hull), enabling them to store well and lose very little of their nutritional value.

Sunflower seeds are also a favorite with birds, being high in energy and nutrients that birds need. Studies indicate that most seed eating bird species prefer sunflower seeds to other common types of seed.

There are two types of sunflower seeds grown commercially. One is the small black oilseed, which is processed into sunflower oil and meal. This is also the popular choice for most bird feeders. The other is a larger black and white striped seed which is used mainly in a wide variety of food products from snacks to bread.

Does not this remind the Christian of God's double provision for his sustenance here in this world? First, in His infinite goodness, God has preserved His pure and nourishing Word to be man's source of spiritual food. "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:2). Every healthy, growing Christian can truly testify, "How sweet are Thy Words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103).

Also, the processed oilseed could typify the Holy Spirit whom God has given to indwell each believer, for oil in Scripture often refers to Him. Many are the valuable functions of the Spirit of God in the Christian's life. One of these is to teach and reveal the truth of God's Word (John 14:26; 16:13). Another is to produce worship and praise, individually and collectively, in the hearts of the redeemed to their Redeemer (Ephesians 5:18-20; Philippians 3:3). One more of the Spirit's functions is to seal every believer unto the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13,14; 4:30). What security!