For most of my health journey I’ve read different research and sources. All of them supporting their take on why their specific diet is the best source.
Over the years as I’ve learned about certain foods and how they can pose a risk to my health I would do my best to avoid them— from a place of care and concern for my body because it is a temple of the Holy Spirit and gift from the Lord.
We live in a fallen world and we are not immune to disease or sickness and unfortunately, many of the foods we eat now can aggravate and trigger it.
Through personal experience, coaching and scripture I don’t believe in a “one diet fits all” like so many advocates have proclaimed. We have different genetic make up, lifestyles and convictions.
As I began to dig deeper in Romans 14 I started to realize that our conscience can be impacted by what we’re listening to, whether good or bad, edifying or hindering. Nevertheless, as we allow scripture to be our guide the Lord wants us to have a choice in the matter as we partner with Him in our health.
In the same way, some think one day is more holy than another day, while others think every day is alike. You should each be fully convinced that whichever day you choose is acceptable. Those who worship the Lord on a special day do it to honor him. Those who eat any kind of food do so to honor the Lord, since they give thanks to God before eating. And those who refuse to eat certain foods also want to please the Lord and give thanks to God. Romans 14:5-6
I personally have dealt with a lot of confusion and doubts over the years as to what is best diet for my body. Is it eating 100% plant based, intuitive eating, Mediterranean diet, whole 30? I’ve asked the Holy Spirit and He’s always guided me into what I needed for a specific season and what’s best for my body.
The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6
One thing he made clear to me is that when I walk in the Spirit, there will be love, joy, peace and self control. When I’m being led by the flesh I’ll most likely experience doubt, fear, and confusion. If I’m not at peace with what I’m eating or drinking, it’s time to take a pause and pray. Ask the Lord, “ Why am I experiencing fear over this particular food? Is this something that wouldn’t be best for my consumption in this moment or is the enemy imposing fear over something God created for enjoyment with Him?”
To get a little personal, caffeine was a fear food for me. The Lord set me free from addiction of drugs and alcohol when I started following Him. It was a gradual process but nevertheless, I had no desire for either as I began to realize how much He loved me and who I was in Him. When people go to certain things for relief whether it be drugs, alcohol or food, instead of the Lord, healing is needed.
I’d like to tell you that I allowed the Lord to do exactly what He wanted in my heart but I didn’t. I looked to other sources like food and caffeine to satisfy and bring me comfort because my heart was still hurting and never really healed from rejection.
I realized I could have multiple cups of coffee and feel that euphoric high I used to when I was partying but this time it was legal. So no harm done, right? Because the Lord loves us and wants the best for His children, He doesn’t want us choosing fake substances or highs when we can actually experience that in Him alone. So He began to gently nudge me to fast coffee.
As I gave up foods and caffeine in fasting, I experienced breakthrough but still I didn’t allow Him to do the work in my heart that He was so yearning to do. You can give up as much as you want to but if you don’t fill it with word and let Him wash you with His truths you’ll end up back at square one, which happened countless times.
I’m thankful that the Lord brought me to Charis Bible College. Through my journey I’ve began to grab hold of the revelation of the goodness of God and Him as my loving Father. Recently, the bondage and addiction I’ve felt stuck in related to food has been redeemed and restored. Religion is being washed away and an expectancy of His goodness fills my heart each morning. It isn’t too good to be true news, this is the truth and He is my Father.
So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15
I have to defend this revelation daily, as circumstances, feelings and life happens but as His daughter I know now that nothing will separate me from His love. No thought, food, addiction or bondage. He can do it and He honestly doesn’t need my help just my faith to take Him at His word.
The love of God has the power to break off every addiction but also a revelation of identity. When I get a revelation of who I am in Christ and who lives in me, I can easily say no to pleasures of this world. It’s not that the Lord doesn’t want me to enjoy but He knows when our hearts are craving something more. He’s drawing us in deeper.
On top of that, when I realize that I have Christ within me then I don’t have to be afraid of missing it. He’s given us the same dominion, authority, self-control, spiritual wisdom and understanding that He has. So we can make the best decisions for our health and body.
If you’ve been struggling with food addiction or fears with food, continue to look to Christ. Remember who you are in Him and that everything He created is good and all can be received through the word of God with thanksgiving and prayer (1 Timothy 4:4-5). The Lord wants you to enjoy your meal time and the foods you eat. He created your favorite foods with you in mind, knowing that it would bring you delight and joy. Invite Him into those areas of fears and let Him reveal what He thinks about it.
There is no one size fits all with the Holy Spirit. He created you uniquely and will help you get through every struggle and trial. Be still and know that He is God. He’s fighting for you and wants to experience true life and peace!
the whole seed 