This week we take a deeper look at Gluttony. The word gluttony comes from the Latin word “gluttire” which simply means to “gulp down” or “swallow.” In the game Mortal Kombat, “stuffing” refers to interrupting an opponent’s move or attack before it fully executes. In much the same way, the enemy attacks us in our mind, and tries to shift our focus, from the love God has intended for us to show others, back onto ourselves and our selfish wants and desires.

God desired for the children of Israel, who wondered in the desert, to put their trust in Him. However, instead of being thankful for everything God provided for them, they complained and grumbled. They were not satisfied and went so far as to say that it was better for them in Egypt where they were slaves.

God provided them with daily food and instructed them not to keep it for the next day, but some of them didn’t listen.  The food that was kept for the next morning rotted.

Like them, we sometimes doubt God’s ability to meet our needs and try to find ways to feed our desires. God says not to worry about what we will eat, and instead we stress over what to fix for dinner.  We think we need more and that tomorrow we may not have enough. We allow fear to destroy our faith in a good God.

In Philippians 3:18b-19 Paul writes, “…that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth.”

But Jesus taught us that we do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. Christ is our provider and we can trust in Him to come through for us each day.

Scriptures: Proverbs 3:27, 1 John 3:17, Proverbs 23:20-21, Philippians 3:19, Ephesians 6:10-11, 1 Corinthians 10:22-24, Romans 2:4, Romans 8:6, 1 Timothy 4:3-4, Matthew 6:25, 1 Corinthians 6:13, Galatians 2:20, Exodus 16:4-5, 19-21, Matthew 4:3-4, Philippians 4:19.

Verse:  They promise freedom, but they are slaves of destructive habits. For you are a slave to whatever controls you.  2 Peter 2:19

Questions:  When do you struggle trusting God?  What causes you to over indulge even when you know you should resist?   What is something you can do today, to make someone else feel important and loved?                                                                    

Prayer: Father, help us to be aware of over indulgences and forgive us for always wanting more. Teach us to be satisfied with all that you provide and to always be ready and willing to share with those around us.  Help us to trust you more and to always be thankful for every good thing you provide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.