Counsels on Wellness

Counsel #12 — Overindulgence

Picture: Counsel #12 — Overindulgence CWe 130.1

Overeating is something many people struggle with, particularly in Western countries where processed food is readily available. Whether it’s reaching for an extra plate at dinner or snacking to distract you from your stresses, this concept of eating whenever we want has become the norm. CWe 130.2

In reality, eating more than your body needs can lead to weight gain, heart disease, and other health risks that encourage slothful behavior. If you constantly feel tired and unmotivated to accomplish your day-to-day responsibilities, you risk becoming physically, professionally, and spiritually stagnant. But how can we better evaluate our eating habits? The first step is to recognize what causes you to overeat. Do you eat more when you’re with a certain person, or when you consume a certain type of food? Do you overeat when you are sad, depressed, or overwhelmed? Determine the trigger or cause and then ask yourself, “Am I truly hungry, or am I just eating for comfort?” Engaging in this type of self-reflection is the precursor to making intentional choices about your physical health.^[166] CWe 130.3

“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 23:20, 21 NIV CWe 130.4

“It is important that the digestive organs shall not be overtaxed. There are many who keep the stomach continually at work.” Ellen White in This Day with God , p. 201 CWe 130.5

Reflect: Do you eat for nourishment, or are you using food to cope with emotions or stress? Have you asked God for help to regulate your appetite? CWe 130.6