Food as Power

Today the book tackled the subject of food making one feel powerful or in control. And that many people eat to fill or void or make themselves feel strong. At first, I thought, hmm that's not me. But I've actually noticed that when I'm stressed, I tend to lean on candy. So, when I'm trying to get the K-1s calmed down, I use candy. After I give them a piece, I take a bit. The sugar appeases my "ahh" moments. Which, now that I'm giving up candy for Lent (RAB!), I have to consciously choose something else that will help me feel "stronger."

"Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." 1 Thess 5:13b-24

I love the fact that these verses focus on how we treat others. It just shows me that loving others is such an important factor of my faith. Patience, kindness, encouragement, helping the weak. All about our relationships with the people around us. I also love the last sentence. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. That's powerful to me. He started something good, and he will finish it. He is faithful to us. It's so simple but so...good. I don't know, with all these requests and then also to be joyful etc., it seems a little impossible. But the beauty of it all is the God will do it if you let him. He'll help you and transform you into a person who is kind, patient, joyful. We're not alone.