The joy of the Lord
“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).
Very often, eating disorders are triggered by a person’s need to control something in a world where little else is in their control. Stressful circumstances and perhaps hurtful comments can cause emotional pain that leave the person feeling powerless or worthless. As a result, to regain control – and in some cases to feel a sense of accomplishment – the person begins to manage their food intake and weight to dangerous levels.
Perhaps if I was thinner, my parents would be prouder of me…
If I lost weight, then I wouldn’t be bullied anymore and I would fit in with everyone else…
If I could only drop a few dress sizes, maybe he will notice me…
When I look a certain way, then I know I will finally be happy…
It’s not unusual to think that if we look a particular way or size, or achieve certain things in life, then we will be happy or make other people love us and accept us more. But in truth, even after gaining what we set out to get, these temporary pleasures do not bring contentment or meaning to our lives. Not in the long-term.
“I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure…Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11).
If there was any earthly pleasure the author of Ecclesiastes wanted, he tasted or acquired it. Yet still, those lust and worldly pleasures were “meaningless, a chasing after the wind”. That is because true joy cannot be found in what the world tells us will make us happy. Joy cannot be sustained by looking a certain way or by ‘fitting in’ with the rest of the world. Not even earthly relationships will make us happy because disappointment and unfilled expectations taint even the most wonderful and peaceful of relationships. Neither do those that care for us always understand our worries and troubles (through no fault of their own), or be physically and emotionally there for us every time we need them.
The thrill of fleshly lusts soon passes, but God is steadfast and faithful. His word and promises stand forever (Isaiah 40:8). His love is not conditional but everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3), and his lovingkindness better than life (Psalm 63:3)! He doesn’t judge you on your outward appearance, but looks at what’s in your heart (1 Samuel 16:7).
Each day brings its own troubles, concerns and worries. But allow God to be the one to take control. God will provide all your needs through the saviour Jesus Christ (Philippians 4:19), whether it be material necessities or love, joy, peace…the Lord will provide it. All you need to do is “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Shut out the lies of the world and focus on the truths from the word of God. Only in His presence and through His truths can true joy and pleasure be found (Psalm 16:11).
