What Are You Feeding?

In the past I have shared openly about my struggles with food addiction. As I pen these thoughts today, I realize that my journey has evolved. Over the course of the last few years I began to become more intentional about what was going on internally. I’ve learned that a huge part of my struggle was not with food but with something bigger. The chaotic cycle of unhealthy eating stemmed not only from stress and heightened emotions, but my own need for affirmation and validation. I realized that deep within me there was a desire to be accepted.

This was an area stemming from childhood. I was always considered the smart, responsible one not the fun and adventurous one. This image I sought to live up to controlled my actions more than I care to admit. Coming to this conclusion has helped me to discover the truth about myself and where to focus my efforts for healing. I have grown to realize that my worth and value are not based on how others view me. I have come to discover that I am accepted most of all by my Heavenly Father.

I am certain many of you, like me, have battled against this or other addictions that have gained control over your lives. Today, I ask, “What are you feeding?” What is it within you that is crying out to be medicated by something other than God? Once you are able to identify the root of the destructive cycles you face, it will place you on a path towards healing.

_Father, today I ask that you minister to the root issues that have been controlling the lives of your people, the driving force behind cycles of addiction and destructive behaviors. I pray that you will help us to see ourselves through your eyes and recognize that our worth and value lie in you and you alone. I pray that we will face the truth about ourselves and embrace the healing process that you long to begin in so many of our lives. In Jesus’s name, Amen. _

Throughout This Day: Whenever you are tempted to turn towards one of your sources of dependency, invite the Spirit to show you why that temptation has arisen and how you can seek to see the underlying need met by God, rather than by that thing.

Editor's Note: We want to thank Mary for her participation in our devotional series as a faithful monthly author. She is leaving our team as other responsibilities and opportunities open up to her. Thank you so much, Mary, for how you have blessed and encouraged us through the years!

***** (c) Mary Pinckney, September 2020