Hello

Have you considered seeing your meals as a gift—to yourself and to God?

How's your holiday eating journey unfolding?
 Are you attuned to the hunger-satisfaction cues thoughtfully designed by God?
 

Are you savoring the joy of opting for wholesome choices?
 

I genuinely hope so!
 

Nevertheless, have you ever thought of food as a gift? I presented this idea to our Inner Circle earlier this week (by the way, Inner Circle enrollment opens next week 😉, and those on the waitlist enjoy the best price). During this session, we explored the concept of viewing food as a gift.
 

Indeed, food can be a gift, especially when we adhere to the three principles and allow it to serve as nourishment for our bodies. Following this approach, our bodies respond with enhanced immunity.
 

In today's world, where immunity is more crucial than ever, choosing healthy options becomes a true blessing, perceived by the mind as a gift and reward. This biblical design encourages us to make those choices again and again.
 

Conversely, opting for excessive indulgence in food, alcohol, or other pleasures when not necessary, triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, creating its own reward system. Processed foods, in particular, provide instant dopamine hits, contributing to what I call the "billion-dollar bliss effect."

We are wired to seek pleasure, a divine design. Thus, the crucial decision lies with us—what kind of pleasure do we want?
 

Is it the satisfaction from healthy choices, the second serving of dessert, the camaraderie of sharing food, or perhaps the allure of alcohol?
 

Consider James 1:17, which reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from above. 
 

Genuine physical satisfaction stems from God-given nourishment, while imitation foods lead to dissatisfaction and a misplaced dopamine rush.
 

Sometimes a piece of chocolate cake may seem like a gift. Is it wrong to indulge? No, it's not a sin. 

However, if it's done when not hungry, it may verge on gluttony. There are healthier ways to prepare such treats, a topic for another day.

God designed hunger to signal mealtime, and he designed hormones to indicate satisfaction, fostering an understanding of contentment in Him.

In summary, God crafted us for pleasure. When we experience pleasure, our minds are wired to repeat those actions. It is a reward. Choosing to eat healthily, with an intention to honor the Lord, can indeed bring pleasure. It is when eating is a gift to ourselves.

On the other hand, begrudgingly consuming healthy foods may lack the dopamine hit and the subsequent reward.

Eating as a gift means nourishing our bodies and hearts—a daily present to ourselves.

Romans 12:1-2, I urge you brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God which is your spiritual service of worship..........so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Enjoy food as a gift during the holidays. It will sharpen your mind physically and your heart spiritually.

On another subject - if you missed my email last week, I announced our upcoming one-of-a-kind conference for anyone who desires to learn more about starting their own biblical wellness ministry or business. I and my team are going to share all the tools and lessons necessary to discover for yourself if your dream can become a reality.  Learn more about it here. Click on the Yes, I want to come button! I hope to see you here in Richmond VA.