I’ve read a lot of Bible Studies on the Israelites wandering in the wilderness, and their number one issue was complaining.  They were never satisfied, and always grumbling.  Some studies I find are very “judging” in nature – like as if to say, “How could they complain?!” I’m in the Circle Maker book and the miracle of 105 million quail rained down on the Israelites.  They were sick and tired of manna and wanted some meat.  God delivered.  Moses couldn’t quite believe that God would deliver, but nonetheless, Moses went to them and said, “Get your forks and knives out we are having quail tomorrow!” The emphasis is always placed on them complaining that Egypt is much better than this.  Meaning – I’d rather be in bondage, sometimes beaten, oppressed SO THAT I can have some food.  After reading that you may say to yourself, “Good grief – that’s ridiculous!”  I gotta tell ‘ya, I don’t think so.  I had read that portion of the book last night.  It was the night I had to eat a fat-free dinner, no food or water after 12:00, and NO COFFEE OR FOOD IN THE MORNING.  My ultrasound demanded that cruel and unusual punishment.  Can I tell you that I had nothing really fat-free in my frig.  Parry laughed and said I could drink the salsa, but you can’t have the chips. I go up to Chick-fil -a to get a bare bones salad and FAT FREE honey mustard dressing.  I chew that thing like it’s rubber with salt and pepper.  I wake up this morning and the head-ache I have from not having coffee makes every thing on edge.  I hear the ticking of the clock, the tone of voice, the clicking of my phone, every little nuance is a pounding in my head.  I think of the Israelites with only manna to eat.

“The people of Israel also began to complain, “Oh, for some meat!” they exclaimed.  “We remember the fish we used to eat for free in Egypt.  And we had all the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic we wanted.  But now our appetites are gone.  All we ever see is this manna!” 

I know we need food for sustenance – to live.  But after reading that portion of the book and my sissy baby attitude for the last 24 hours has made me realize how much emphasis I put on food.  I had an emotional and physical response to someone controlling my food intake.  I got a little irritated.  AND TO TOP IT ALL OFF THEY HAD A COFFEE MAKER IN THE WAITING ROOM WHERE THE NURSES CAME OUT TO FIX COFFEE AND TALK ABOUT THEIR WEEKEND!  Now, they did offer me coffee after and I was grateful. 

I’m convinced that our obsession with food as Americans is one area in which we are distracted from a greater relationship with Him.  We spend more time nursing a craving of our belly, than nursing the craving of our soul with the love and wisdom of Jesus.  We are so addicted to food, drinks, alcohol that we would rather fill up with numbing food and spirits, than take care of the temple God has given us.  I’m totally guilty of this!  So if you want to smack me because I’m hitting a nerve, just know I’m smacking myself. (gently)

Philippines 3:19  Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. 

Honestly ask yourself how often your “stomach” is in your thoughts and how often do you want to please it?  Is your mind more on earthly things?

Dear Jesus,

I pray honestly that you would help me gain better control of what I put into my body.  May I be strong and healthy physically so that I can serve in your Kingdom work more efficiently and effectively.  Lord, you gave us different plants, trees, food items to enjoy but when it becomes an idol, a way to escape we have to get real with ourselves and ask the hard questions.  Lord our flesh is weak so we ask for you to show us how to control the cravings, find balance, and most of all Jesus eat of your Word more, drink of Your Spirit more, and bask in the Glory of Your love!

AMEN!