21 Oct 2011 2 Comments

Free from the Stronghold of Gluttony

Gluttony is not always obese and obesity is not always gluttonous. Gluttony will never be effectively dealt with by medical experts, psychotherapists, or scientists [worldly means].

Celebrating God Given Holidays is not Gluttony--Over Indulgence is.

Gluttony is a spiritual problem of eating or drinking in excess–a type of eating or drinking disorder that attempts to soothe over ills and emotional problems, or placate them without dealing with the true catalyst.

It is easier to eat or drink excessively than to have self control, be patient, share, go for a walk, love a neighbor, be grateful, deal with a problem, forgive, trust God, or any number of [spiritual] areas we prefer to ignore.

Giving in to the stronghold of gluttony offers temporary relief. It masks with immediate gratification, but does not change the problem. In some cases gluttony leads to sickness and disease or even other eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.

This stronghold walks hand in hand with strongholds of addiction, selfishness, laziness, rebellion, greed, and numerous others. All masking [spiritual] problems–strongholds that have been invited  into our lives because of a void. Even Christians suffer its clutches.

So, why are we enjoying life less–needing to turn to food or drink to placate or fill the void–and how can we overcome this stronghold? Do we give up parties and celebrations in order to escape?

Honor and Charity Begins at Home

5 Biblical tips to overcome gluttony:

1. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Be grateful for what you have and the life God has given you.

1 Thessalonians 5:12 Now also we beseech you, brethren, get to know those who labor among you [recognize them for what they are, acknowledge and appreciate and respect them all]–your leaders who are over you in the Lord and those who warn and kindly reprove and exhort you.

Psalm 95:2 Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise!

2. Share whatever you have with whoever you can. Family first and then neighbors and others in need. Never neglect the poor among you.

1 Timothy 5:8 If anyone doesn’t take care of his own relatives, especially his immediate family, he has denied the Christian faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Isaiah 58:10-11 If you give some of your own food to feed those who are hungry and to satisfy the needs of those who are humble, then your light will rise in the dark, and your darkness will become as bright as the noonday sun.11The Lord will continually guide you and satisfy you even in sun-baked places.  He will strengthen your bones. You will become like a watered garden and like a spring whose water does not stop flowing.

3. Keep your giving private to the Lord. Then God will reward you.

Matthew 6:1-7 “Be careful not to do your good works in public in order to attract attention. If you do, your Father in heaven will not reward you. 2So when you give to the poor, don’t announce it with trumpet fanfare. This is what hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets in order to be praised by people. I can guarantee this truth: That will be their only reward. 3When you give to the poor, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. 4Give your contributions privately. Your Father sees what you do in private. He will reward you.

4. Love God. Love others with that same love. True godly love keeps us accountable and helps us maintain self control. True godly love isn’t quick to judge [unrighteously] or become offended.

1 Corinthians 8:3 But if one loves God truly [with affectionate reverence, prompt obedience, and grateful recognition of His blessing], he is known by God [recognized as worthy of His intimacy and love, and he is owned by Him].

5. Keep friendships with others who love the Lord. True godly friendships teach us true godly ways. Don’t keep friends who are rich in a worldly sense but poor in godly wisdom. A true Christian friend will not lead you to gluttony or allow you to stay there.

1 Corinthians 11:19 for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized.

Philippians 3:18-19 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.

Have you received your free copy of Biblical Solutions for Cultural and Social Issues in the World Today study guide? [written by Pola Muzyka]

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by Pola in Addiction, attitude of gratitude, Bible, Love, Stronghold Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,