Food for Holistic Wellness Part 2
Part 2: Food anxiety and legalism
"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV)
When it comes to food, it’s easy to fall into two extremes: We lose control, allowing food to control us. In the other, we try to control food, believing that strict adherence to a diet will lead to perfection. Both approaches can take food from its rightful place as a gift from God and turn it into something we either worship or fear.
Physical aspect: Some modern diets eliminate entire food groups, which can lead to physical imbalances. However, the Bible mentions a variety of foods—bread, honey, vegetables, meat, and fat—as part of God’s good creation. These foods were given for nourishment and enjoyment, not to be over-consumed or overly restricted. The goal is to adopt a balanced approach, focusing on natural, whole foods when possible. Personally, I aim to avoid man-made processed foods whenever possible. God created certain foods for specific reasons, and the Bible suggests a diverse and natural diet that supports our intake of both macronutrients and micronutrients.
Emotional aspect: Striving for a perfect diet can lead to anxiety and legalism, where we place unnecessary burdens on ourselves over what we eat. Jesus reminds us not to worry about our daily needs, including food (Matthew 6:25). Legalism around food, whether it’s obsessing over calories, carbs intake can rob us of the freedom and peace that comes with trusting God. Instead of creating rules that lead to guilt or stress, we are called to approach food with gratitude and self-control through the Holy Spirit.
Spiritual Aspect: Food can easily become an idol—something we rely on for control, or identity. When we obsess over what we eat, we may fall into the trap of self-righteousness, believing that certain diets make us better or more spiritual. This kind of legalism is nothing new; Colossians 2:16 warns us against judging others—or ourselves—based on food or drink. True spiritual health comes from glorifying God in all we do, including our eating. Whatever we consume, it should be done with a heart of thankfulness, reflecting God’s grace rather than our own control.
Practical tips:
Prioritize nourishment over restriction. Focus on natural foods that nourish both body and mind, rather than eliminating certain food groups.
Prayer:
Abba father , Help me to approach food with a balanced heart, free from anxiety and overly control. Teach me to honor You in all things, including what I eat and drink. May In Jesus’ name, Amen
