“Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.”

I like a great steak or a bowl of ice cream as much as anyone—maybe more than most. About a week ago, I was at dinner with my family, and the restaurant we chose had a menu full of items that reminded us of some great places we enjoyed many years ago. Food, and the settings in which we enjoy it, can be powerful and extremely pleasurable. That being said, Solomon reminds us that a focus on feasting can be costly. Certainly, eating in the presence of someone—and as their guest—means taking in the purpose and expectations of the moment. Even more so, we are reminded that a meal is often about sustenance. I’ve known people who truly live for the next meal experience. The idea of just having a bowl of cereal or a sandwich to carry them to the next time they need fueling almost makes them angry. But living to eat, rather than eating to live, is not God’s design. I have friends who are trained chefs. I truly enjoy their passion for bringing to life the flavors and experiences in God’s magnificent creation. But food can be deceptive when we focus on it rather than on the people we’re with—and the Giver of the gift. That’s why a prayer of thanksgiving at the beginning of a meal is such a beautiful practice. A trip to an orphanage in Honduras brought this truth home to me. Living for a period of time with children who ate beans and rice for every meal—with only a little tilapia on occasion—helped reset my focus. Today, enjoy your food and reflect on the One who gives it to you. #BeTheEdge

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭31‬ ‭NIV‬‬