So don’t worry saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For the idolaters eagerly seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. Matthew 6:31-33 HCSB
If you have ever tried to diet, then questions like “What will I eat?” or “What will I drink?” are questions you must continually carefully consider. If you have gained a few pounds then “What will I wear?” is also a question you must ask yourself, right?
I often compare dieting with getting saved because of the similarities involved in each process. If we want to lose weight, we have to make positive changes in our lifestyle. We may have to eliminate some foods or eat them very sparingly. We may need to avoid places or situations where the temptation to overeat is just too strong until we have lost a few pounds and gained some willpower.
When we get saved, God gives us His Holy Spirit to dwell inside of us and help us make positive changes. We may have to change the way we treat others, our thoughts, our words, and/or how we spend our spare time. We may need to avoid people and places that are more likely to tempt us to resort to our old sinful behavior.
Now these things may seem like more than you can handle. You may already feel consumed your family, your job, troubled relationships or whatever you have going on. But there is good news. God can help you with that. The remedy is found in our Scripture passage for today.
Another passage that is similar is Proverbs 3:5-6 which says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.”
If we focus on God and His kingdom and doing what He wants us to do, He will provide all we need, even willpower to resist temptation. We are told in 1 Corinthians 10:13, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful, and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape so that you are able to bear it.”
The key to accomplishing whatever goal we have to make positive changes in our life is focusing on God. We must also surrender to Him. We are told in James 4:7-8, “Therefore submit to God. But resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners, and purify your hearts, double-minded people!”
Whatever life change you are trying to make, first focus on God. Surrender to Him, draw near to Him and He will give you all you need to resist temptation. He will provide for you. You have no reason to fear or fret, just give it all over to Him. Acknowledge Him and seek His guidance in all you do. Trust in Him today.
Whether your goal is to lose weight, reduce anxiety in your life or both, you will feel the weight lift off your shoulders. You will come to experience the peace and joy that can only be found in a solid relationship with Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Whatever is weighing you down today, give it to God. He will gladly take that weight off your shoulders and replace it with peace and joy. What are you waiting for?
Have a great day!