This week’s lesson points out the fact that we are called to pursue holiness not only in mind and spirit, but also in body. All that we do, including eating and drinking, should be to the glory of God. If we pursue an indulgent or lazy attitude toward our body it will become difficult to put to death the other sinful deeds of the body.
We are also reminded that materialism is a key ingredient in this struggle. Materialism leads to discontentment and envy and may result in pampering and indulgence so that we become soft and lazy. We are cautioned that “there is no place for laziness and indulgence of the body in a disciplined pursuit of holiness.”
Limiting our exposure to those things that temp us and learning what triggers our sinful desires are key steps in disciplining our bodies. How will you apply these tools in your own life? Comments on Chapter 11 will be accepted through August 4, 2008. We will cover Chapter 12 during the week of August 5 - 11. We look forward to hearing from you.
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This chapter was another rough read because I love to eat! I had to really think about whether or not I allow my appetite to make me sinful. In and of itself our appetites are not sinful, but as the book states "if left uncontrolled, we will find our bodies becoming "instruments of wickedness" rather that "instruments of righteousness."" I don't believe that applies to our food appetites alone, I think that can be applied to anything we allow to overrun us.
I also thought it was very interesting to think that if I don't have control over my physical appetite how easily I can lose (or just give away) control over other aspects of my life. It's almost like a snowball affect, one thing tumbles down taking everything else with it and before I realize, I'm in an avalanche.
What I walked away with most of all was the fact that I can make provision for this, I can think ahead and not be tempted. I can think of what I am going to eat and keep myself from overindulging but I must think ahead!
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