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What goes gobble, gobble, gobble? I used to. And not just during the holidays either,r but seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, I would gobble up large quantities of food. Then a few years ago the Holy Spirit began convicting me of my eating habits. Attempting to understand why the Holy Spirit was convicting me about my eating, I began studying the Scriptures relating to eating, appetite, and God’s perspective on overeating. As I studied, my understanding was enlightened and I realized that I was a glutton.

Through my studies I also learned more about God’s love for His sons and daughters. And that God wants us to be in good health and that was one of His reasons for disciplining and correcting me about my eating. Truly His love is pure, powerful and beyond all human comprehension.

Though we Christians have a tendency to laugh and joke about overeating, the Bible doesn’t joke about the subject. Actually the Bible warns us about the dangers of overeating. For example, Proverbs 23:20-21 states:“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” Proverbs 28:7 declares, “He who keeps the law is a discerning son, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.” And if you still don’t have a clear understanding of what the Bible says about gluttony, check out what Proverbs 23:2 says, “Put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony.”

I vividly remember the day the Lord spoke to my heart, “Debra, you must be alert to the fact that Satan hates you and he will do everything he can to destroy you. In My word I warn that the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy. (John 10:10) One of the ways he’s doing this is by convincing my sons and daughters through lies and discouragement that they’re enslaved to their appetite. When the fact is nothing could be further from the truth because you and My other sons and daughters do have self control. But instead of seeking Me and My Word for truth and guidance, you believe the enemy’s lies. And without My Truth to help and strengthen you, you continue to overeat. If you continue on the path of a glutton the day will come when your health will be adversely affected and possibly cause premature death. Understand that each time one of My sons or daughters dies prematurely that’s one less ambassador representing Me on earth. That’s one less voice declaring the Truth of My Word upon the earth. And it’s one less light shining forth the warmth of My Love in the darkness and coldness of the world. Out of My love for you and your well-being I have warned you about overeating. Choose to listen to My voice instead of the enemy’s.”

As the bountiful holidays approach, may I encourage you to care for yourself by controlling your natural urges to overeat?

What goes gobble, gobble, gobble? This Thanksgiving Holiday let it be the turkey before he gets stuffed! From my family to yours…Happy Thanksgiving!

Debra Wallace is an inspirational columnist and speaker.