Food for Holistic Wellness Series (Part 10)

The Mature Cheese

"Did you not pour me out like milk and curdle me like cheese?" — Job 10:10 

Cheese, though mentioned only a few times in the Bible, carries symbolic significance. David once delivered cheese to his brothers (1 Samuel 17:18), and it is often associated with food provision. 

Physical Aspect:

When it comes to cheese, raw, aged, and artisan varieties are often superior in nutritional value compared to mass-produced commercial cheese. Raw cheese, made from unpasteurized milk, retains more nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and enzymes. Aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano, Roquefort, Emmental, and Gruyère undergo a fermentation process that benefits gut health due to the presence of probiotics. These cheeses are also rich in calcium, supporting bone and cardiovascular health, and are generally more digestible.

On the other hand, commercial cheese, especially processed slices found in fast-food burgers, often contain additives and preservatives that can be detrimental to your health. They lack the enzymes and probiotics that contribute to digestive and overall well-being.

Emotional Aspect:

The probiotics found in aged and raw cheeses not only improve gut health but also positively affect mental wellness. Research shows that the gut-brain axis plays a key role in emotional regulation. The live cultures in these cheeses help balance the microbiome, which in turn supports brain function and mood stability. Cheese is also a good source of nutrients like vitamin B12, which is crucial for brain health and cognitive function. When you enjoy a rich, flavorful cheese, it can be a sensory delight that elevates your mood.

Spiritual Aspect:

In Job 10:10, the process of making cheese is used as a metaphor for God's intimate involvement in the formation of life. Just as milk is curdled into cheese, God delicately shapes us in the womb. Cheese, especially aged varieties, takes time to mature—just like our spiritual growth. This process requires patience and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The maturing of cheese reflects the slow but steady work of God in our lives, bringing us closer to spiritual maturity.

Tip:

For those in Hong Kong, consider ordering raw or aged cheeses from Delidori

Prayer:

Abba Father, thank You for Your delicate craftsmanship in our lives. Just as cheese takes time to mature, help us to grow in faith and patience. May we trust in Your process, knowing that You are shaping us into something beautiful. In Jesus' name, Amen.