Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:12

Does God really care about what or how we eat? Does it really matter to our Christian lives? The answer is yes!

Pastor Ryan shared with us that gluttony can be defined as “greedy or excessive indulgence.” Gluttony occurs when the idea of what we eat or drink is more important than our relationship with God. It is turning to food, drink, or recreation rather than turning to God who supplies our needs. 

Three key questions every believer should consider: 

• Am I treating my body as God’s property?

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).  How am I caring for God’s property – my body? Am I maintaining it for maximum service to Him?

•  Does my treatment of my body reflect my life goals?

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31).  Our habits shape our mission. Does food consumption distract you from greater pursuits?

•  Does my treatment of my body reveal something about my heart?

Over and over in the Scriptures, there is a direct connection between our bodies and our hearts. Between our physical lives and our spiritual lives. Is there an underlying issue we need to address? God calls us to give our whole selves to Him. “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1).

 Discussion: 

• Is there anything in your life that you spend more time thinking about than your relationship with God?
• If Jesus Himself gave you something to take care of, how would you handle it? Should it be any different with our bodies?
• What are some practical ways you can “present your body as a living sacrifice?”

I pray not just my heart, but my body, Lord, is offered to you – a living, fully alive, sacrifice. Every breath I take, bite I eat, step I take, drop I drink—every decision is for Your glory, Lord.