Food has always been a significant part of human life, but in the last days, the Bible suggests that food will take on an even greater role.
Scripture warns about famine, scarcity, and even deception surrounding food in the end times.
At the same time, it offers hope, reminding believers that God will provide for His people.
Understanding what the Bible says about food in the last days can help us prepare—both spiritually and practically.
From warnings of global food shortages to promises of divine provision, the Bible gives us insight into what to expect as the world moves closer to the return of Christ.
Famine and Scarcity in the Last Days
One of the clearest warnings about food in the last days is the presence of famine.
Jesus Himself spoke about this in Matthew 24:7, saying, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.”
These words indicate that food shortages will be part of the troubles that come before His return.
The Book of Revelation also describes famine as one of the great judgments of the end times.
Revelation 6:5-6 speaks of a black horse whose rider holds a pair of scales.
A voice declares, “A quart of wheat for a day’s wages, and three quarts of barley for a day’s wages, and do not damage the oil and the wine!”
This passage suggests that food will become incredibly expensive, making it difficult for people to afford even the most basic necessities.
The world will experience extreme economic instability, and many will struggle to survive.
The Mark of the Beast and Food Control
Another important warning related to food in the last days is found in Revelation 13:16-17.
It says, “It also forced all people, great and small, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hands or on their foreheads, so that they could not buy or sell unless they had the mark.”
This passage indicates that access to food and other goods will be controlled by a system requiring a mark—often referred to as the mark of the beast.
Many believe this means that those who refuse to conform to the world’s new system may be cut off from food supplies.
Believers will face difficult choices as they remain faithful to God.
They may have to trust Him in new ways, believing that He will provide for their needs even when the world turns against them.
Deception Surrounding Food
The Bible also warns that deception will increase in the last days, and this could include deception related to food.
1 Timothy 4:1-3 states, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.
They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth.”
This passage suggests that false teachers will try to control what people eat, possibly imposing restrictions that are not from God.
Throughout history, there have been movements that promote strict food rules in the name of religion.
But Paul reminds believers that food is a gift from God, meant to be received with gratitude.
In the last days, people should be cautious about teachings that try to manipulate them by restricting food unnecessarily.
God’s Provision in Difficult Times
Even though the Bible warns about famine and economic hardship, it also gives promises of God’s provision.
Psalm 37:25 declares, “I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.”
This verse is a powerful reminder that God will take care of His people.
Jesus also taught His followers not to worry about food.
In Matthew 6:31-33, He said, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
These words reassure believers that no matter what happens, God will provide.
Miraculous Provision in the Bible
Throughout history, God has provided food for His people in miraculous ways.
During the Exodus, He sent manna from heaven to feed the Israelites (Exodus 16:4).
When Elijah was in hiding, God commanded ravens to bring him food (1 Kings 17:4-6).
And Jesus multiplied five loaves and two fish to feed thousands (Matthew 14:13-21).
These stories remind us that God is not limited by food shortages or economic troubles.
If He provided for His people in the past, He can do it again in the last days.
Wisdom in Preparing for Hard Times
While God promises to take care of His people, the Bible also teaches wisdom and preparation.
Proverbs 6:6-8 says, “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise!
It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
This verse encourages people to be wise and prepare when they have the opportunity.
Joseph’s story in Genesis 41 is another example of godly preparation.
God gave Pharaoh a dream warning of a coming famine, and Joseph advised him to store food during the years of plenty.
Because of this wisdom, Egypt survived the famine, and many lives were saved.
While believers should trust God’s provision, they should also use wisdom in planning ahead.
Being prepared does not mean living in fear—it means being responsible and trusting God’s guidance.
The Marriage Supper of the Lamb
While food shortages will be a reality in the last days, the Bible also speaks of a great feast in heaven.
Revelation 19:9 says, “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!”
This passage describes a glorious celebration where believers will dine with Christ.
In contrast to the famine and struggles of the last days, heaven will be a place of abundance.
This reminds believers that no matter what happens on earth, there is a greater hope ahead.
Final Thoughts
The Bible warns that food in the last days will become scarce, expensive, and even controlled by those in power.
Famine and economic instability will challenge many people.
Deception may arise concerning food, and believers will need to rely on God’s wisdom to navigate difficult times.
However, the Bible also reassures us that God is faithful.
He has provided in the past, and He will continue to care for His people.
Believers should prepare with wisdom, trust in God’s provision, and look forward to the heavenly feast that awaits those who remain faithful.