Friday, December 3, 2010

Life is More than Food

Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” Matthew 6:25 (NIV)

It’s no secret that eating too much leads to obesity and related health problems. Sugar cravings can plague me until I succumb to temptation. At times, it’s like an addiction. I am consumed by it. I’ve read that an intense desire for carbohydrates may be a physical response to the need for serotonin, which helps the brain function effectively. It may also signal an unmet psychological need. When I gain weight, I beat myself up for failing to eat right, which seems only to make matters worse. It’s an ugly cycle. Jesus makes it clear that I should not worry but, instead seek the more important things in life.

The Apostle Paul said it this way: Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. When I am engaged in God’s purpose for my life, I am spiritually nourished and worldly cravings disappear. My hunger has not been for food, but for a deep involvement in the things of God. Breaking out of the pattern of self-centeredness to reach with love to others causes my worries to also diminish.

Heavenly Father, help me to remain focused on seeking my fill of You rather than seeking fulfillment in the things of this world. Instead of indulging myself with food, clothes or other things of the world, Lord, let me indulge in You. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

© 2010 Stephanie L. Snead

1 comment:

Christy said...

Tough subject! You handled it well!!