One thing the Holy Spirit has been leading me through in my health journey is leaning on Him more so than food and also eating less.
God created food for strength and enjoyment, scripture makes that clear. But, He’s gentle to nudge us in areas where we may be seeking more comfort, excitement or enjoyment in rather than Him. Why? If we allow other things to take His place then we’re the ones who are missing out. Our hearts can grow hardened and we find fulfillment in temporary places that only He can truly satisfy.
The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. Luke 8:15
If you haven’t noticed from my posts, this blog and my lifestyle— I love food 😉 I believe it’s one of the best gifts from God to nourish and heal our bodies while also allowing us the opportunity to create, like He does. I’m always amazed at how detailed God is. When I stop and think of all the cultures He created with different spices, dishes, flavors… it literally puts me in awe and brings me to praise! How cool is it that we get to partake in all of it? I mean He could’ve made only one fruit, vegetable or meat yet he made millions of variety. This in itself is a reflection of His goodness and creativity.
As a bible college student with a full time work schedule, life gets busy. My sleep has been deprived, I haven’t been able to work out as much as I want to and my meals aren’t always balanced or instagram worthy. In this season, I’ve been learning how to let go of control and surrender my body to the Lord, which honestly has not been easy the past few months.
Before Jesus I had an addiction to drugs and alcohol, laying those things down took time but it wasn’t as hard as the area of food He’s been pruning me in.
The thing with food is that we eat it every day. Our body literally needs it for nourishment and strength. Because I’ve felt physically weak and honestly worn out in this season, fasting has been a huge challenge.
I’ve had days when He’s called me to fast, which means more time in His presence, no food or no to certain foods. My flesh is literally screaming at me, “What are you doing?! This doesn’t make sense. You’re literally falling asleep in class right now.” At the same time the Holy Spirit whispers “You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you, Lena. Your flesh is weak but your spirit is willing.”
I dedicated myself to a week of fasting recently. I decided to give up breakfast and caffeine and spend extra time in prayer. As I jumped into it I had all the right intentions but as I progressed I began to doubt. “Am I doing this for the right reasons?” “Is this really going to work?” I had days where I slipped and fell off with my intention. Even though I didn’t finish perfectly, I finished. Looking back on this past week there was most definitely breakthrough. God refreshed me with so much joy and peace and a deeper hunger for the word and His presence. He brought me to a place of rest and reminded me that He isn’t looking for perfection but a willing heart of obedience to lay down my life (desires) and comforts.
If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it. Matthew 10:39
As I’ve began to lessen my meals and spend more time with God, revelation of my identity in Him is flowing. He is my source and everything that I want. Yes, a delicious meal is a way for me to enjoy the Lord and His creation but there is nothing more that satisfies my soul than Him alone.
The righteous eats to the satisfying of his soul. Proverbs 13:25
My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips. Psalm 63:5
Food for thought: In what area is the Holy Spirit nudging you to lay something down for more of Him?
Let go of doubts, if you’re His sheep you do hear His voice. Expect provision and ask, “God if I’m giving this up, what better things do you have in store?”
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Psalm 119:103
the whole seed 