If it offends, don’t eat it

Romans 14:15 If your brother or sister is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy someone for whom Christ died.

Verse Reflections:  It is easy for me to turn down wine or alcohol in front of those I think might have an issue with alcohol.  So, why is it so difficult for me to turn down delicious, processed foods when I am in front of others that either over diet or over eat?  I tend to eat more in front of those people in rebellion of what are considered social norms.  I am repulsed by people that barely eat or always choose salads.  I want to show them that they should enjoy food.  And yet, how sick is that?  I should be conscious of what I eat in front of them in a positive way.  If they over obsess, or overindulge, don’t they have a similar problem to an alcoholic?  Should I not eat the foods that God created for us most especially when I should be a witness for those with issues?  I need to consider my own eating habits a witness to others.  Perhaps, if I analyze my food choices with others in mind I will be more successful.  It has always been easier for me to serve others than to serve myself.  I do not want to distress others.  It is not kind of me, loving of me to “rebel” in front of others.  It is not kind to myself either.  I must act in love.  There are friends and family members that want us to be healthy.  We must honor them and ourselves by choosing foods that are healthy.  We must act in love when we choose our foods today.  Love for ourselves, for those who love us, and for those who have eating issues themselves.  Today we must decide not to destroy our witness or someone else’s faith in Christ by eating foods that are not healthy.

Prayer:

Father, You know that thinking of others has always come more naturally to me than thinking of myself. Today, I offer You my witness—the example I set before others. I want the choices I make, especially with food, to be a source of encouragement and strength not distress to those around me. Help me show discipline in my decisions—whether it’s saying no to dessert or avoiding foods that don’t nourish the body You’ve given me. Let my choices reflect care, not only for my own health but also for the well-being of those who look to me for guidance or inspiration.

I know my family wants me to honor this body, not abuse it through bingeing or neglect. Father, please come close and remind me to be a faithful witness. Let the way I eat speak life. Let it inspire others to pursue health and wholeness through the good foods You have created. Give me skill and creativity in the kitchen, so I can prepare meals that are both nourishing and delicious—meals that honor You. Thank You for gently reminding me not to rebel, especially when others may be watching and drawing conclusions about You from my actions. I love You, Lord, and it is my desire to never hinder someone else’s journey toward You. Today, let us choose Your foods together.