The Word says in Mark 7:15 ”You are not defiled by what you eat, but by what you say and do.” It goes on further to say ”food doesn’t come in contact with the heart, but only passes through the stomach and then comes out again…. It is the thought of life that defiles you.” In marinating on this text, it gives us another perspective on the aspects of food and what we input into our mind, which then in turn affects the body.
Have you heard the statement; “You are what you eat”? Or the infamous question, “What’s eating you?” when we want to ask someone what is bothering them? Food literally has a way of eating away at our minds, bodies, and spirits, and before long, the unnecessary pounds or baggage grab onto our system. The immediate desire to go for a crash diet, intense exercise routine, or even recluse oneself to regroup and gain perspective, is natural. Yet, have we strongly considered that the thing that eating us physically is really what is eating us emotionally (and visa versa)? The food we intake dictates what we put out, and I’m not just talking about using the facilities… Lol. What we put into our bodies either nurtures and nourishes, or creates toxicity and fatigue.
The quote, “Create this body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to him,” is a well-known scripture in Romans. But the text is not just a parable on refraining from drugs, fornication, addiction, or abuse. It provides a discipline for food as well. It is not a secret that food can be used as a comfort or happy place (there is the term “comfort food” after all). Many people use food as a center of attraction for major celebrations, ceremonies, or happenings, and thus associate food with pleasant experiences. Food, when used correctly, can be pleasant and cheerful, and can cure the mind, body, and spirit. Certain foods have the power to heal, eliminate, restore, strengthen, and replenish. However, some foods create physical and emotional disturbances. Do you realize that certain carbohydrates or sugar create depression or ailments? Even particular vegetables in large quantities or poor balance can be toxic to your system. I know; it seems hard to believe but true. (Look HERE and HERE for proof!) We must establish balance and healthy habits with food, approaching our diet as eating to live instead of eating solely for pleasure. As balance is needed in any diet, the balance of physical and spiritual nourishment is also needed. Daily doses of the Word (not the world) are paramount towards healthy and disciplined lives.
During the tumultuous times of COVID-19, with blatant sin and bad behavior in leaderships, governments, and communities around every corner, positive, spiritual nourishment is needed more than ever. We cannot afford to be negligent to our systems, souls, or spirits. Our body is a temple, a representation of God, a holy place, and a container of righteousness. How can we truly be ambassadors, light- agents, willing vessels, voices, dragon slayers, prayer warriors, preaching giants, entrepreneurs, empowerment speakers, health professionals, leaders, musicians, journalists, do what we do BEST, if our health is in trouble, and we look in the opposite direction?
Yes, there are some things we experience in health and life that will always be part of our cross or thorn to bear, keeping us connected to our true source of strength, Jesus Christ. However, there are other traits, behaviors, habits, or ailments that are preventable. These ailments can dry up or be driven away, never to return again, with the implementation of small changes to food consumption, both mentally and physically. We must adjust how we view food, and by exhibiting control in our lives, we maintain the purpose and plans God has for our life. We walk in the abundant, prevailing purpose to be in good health. ALL will be well with us and our Souls will prosper (3 John 2). 
Consider these words pivotal FOOD for THOUGHT: “You become what you eat.” The next time you are drained, fatigued, or irritable, consider asking, “What was my last meal? What are my last thoughts before bedtime? Did I exercise today?” Be conscious of what is internally eating you, both physically and mentally, and remember that these things affect your entire outlook and mindset. Sometimes we don’t realize just how powerfully “Our Action/ Our Active food” affects our lives. The word action is a verb and is defined as something that you do. It requires movement, determination, and focus. Eating, intaking food, is an action; choosing what to eat is a different action. If you or anyone you know has struggled with food addictions or bad habits, this distinction is important. One must take action to promote a healthier lifestyle for positive results to manifest a long term Journey. Over- thinking, anxiety, and worry are poor actions, carrying unnecessary weight. But when your mind changes, your actions change. I encourage each of us on this day to begin to snack on the Word, our #1 healthy snack. Spiritual guidance can be our spiritual food every day, so that our spirits are not contaminated by other vices.
Prayer of Guidance
Father, with your Loving support and tools, encourage us to be courageous in action by daring to LIVE ON PURPOSE through out lifestyle choices. We must live our lives with a Purpose because our lifestyles reflect your commands. Thank you for nudging us and supplying the resources and guidance needed to make this action a reality. In the name of Jesus, Amen.