Comfort Food!

Food is good for us. Our bodies need it. However, food is turned to for more reasons than just feeding the body. When some people experience feelings of depression, discouragement, loneliness, sadness, etc., they often find themselves going to the cupboard or refrigerator and begin stuffing themselves. There is something about eating that seems to either reduce or at least dull the feelings being experienced. Though it may be something else one is starving for (i.e. encouragement, companionship, joy, etc.), it appears that filling the stomach tends to CALM and SOOTHE (at least for a while) the craving. That is why it is referred to as “comfort food.” However, not everyone seems to go for the same things when seeking “comfort food.” Studies have indicated that women prefer sugar. I’ve heard women talk about sitting down and eating a whole pint of ice-cream. Some head for the big bag of salty chips. On the other hand, it has been noted that men often view food as a reward and therefore go for the big juicy steak and the baked potato topped with all the butter, sour cream, bacon bits, etc. In either case, the stomach gets filled and the feelings seem to be dealt with as the sugar and fat tend to reduce the negative feelings.

When it comes to these “comfort foods”, their limitation in dealing with what is really behind the feelings needs to be acknowledged. Perhaps these foods take the mind off what is really being experienced for a while, but soon the feelings come back and the eating resumes. This cycle can eventually impact the health of the body in negative and serious ways.

David exhorted…
“Oh, TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” ( Psalm 34:8 ESV)

When we experience the feelings of depression, discouragement, loneliness, sadness, etc., and feel the need for “comfort food”, let us turn to the Lord. Rather than taking refuge in a pint of ice-cream, bag of chips, or loaded baked potato, let it be in Him and the assurances of His Word!

Peter quoted the psalmist when he wrote…
“(2) Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up to salvation -- (3) if indeed you have TASTED THAT THE LORD IS GOOD.” ( 1 Peter 2:2-3 ESV)

What is it we truly crave? Are we finding the “comfort food” that truly brings LASTING SATISFACTION? God has offered us assurances, hope and knowledge that will not merely dull, but actually lift us from the feelings of depression, discouragement, loneliness, and sadness.

Paul encouraged…
“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and GOD OF ALL COMFORT, (4) WHO COMFORTS US in all our affliction, so that we may be able to COMFORT those who are in any affliction, with the COMFORT with which we ourselves are COMFORTED by God.” (2 Cor. 1:3-4 ESV)

Looking to God, focusing on Him, on His Will, and accepting His promises in faith provides reason for pressing on in joy. He is able to comfort the downcast. ( 2 Corinthians 7:6) He is the God of all hope and able to fill us with all joy and peace. ( Romans 15:13) Let us turn to His Word. We can keep feasting on it with no concern regarding calories or cholesterol. We can have all we want and the impact experienced will be HEALTHY for the body, CALMING to the mind, and SOOTHING to the soul.

Note one more encouraging passage from Paul.
“(16) Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and GAVE US ETERNAL COMFORT and good hope through grace, (17) COMFORT YOUR HEARTS and establish them in every good work and word.” ( 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV)

Have a great day ENJOYING A HEAPING HELPING OF THE COMFORTING WORD!
Carl

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