On an ordinary day several years ago I found myself all alone with a free afternoon to do with as I pleased. I decided it was the perfect time to go see the film I knew my husband wouldn't enjoy. I didn't even take the time to see if any of my friends wanted to go. I just got in the car and took myself to the movies.
It became apparent, as I walked into the dimly lit theater, that not many people shared my enthusiasm for early afternoon showings. Undeterred, I found a choice seat and got ready to lose myself in the story.
It was a good movie, but a few minutes into it I began to feel a tad uncomfortable. Evidently the R rating was for language. I squirmed in my seat as four letter words fell all around me. I looked at the empty seats on either side of me and imagined Jesus sitting in one of them.
The truth is, He lives in me and that means everywhere I go, He comes with me.....whether He wants to or not. Those words weren't just making me uncomfortable, they were assaulting His ears as well. I made Him a promise that day: I would never go to an R rated movie again (or any movie I wouldn't want Him to come see with me).
Let me say here that I am not trying to make this into "doctrine" for everyone. It is one of those things that is between each of us and the Lord. Some of the most devout Christians I know have no problem with this. I understand. For me, it isn't a good idea to put certain words and images into my little mind. Once there, they take up permanent residence, and my over-active imagination calls them up again and again.
I know I promised to give an account of my eating. Bear with me. This all ties together (for me anyway!).
I have tried my best to keep the promise I made years ago (I confess, I slipped once and watched a DVD of "The King's Speech"). I'm far from perfect. But for the most part, I've done fairly well. There's something about telling the great I Am you will do something. You tend to want to be faithful.
I knew if I made a "promise" to the Lord about eating I would be taking a big step. I avoided it for a long time. In fact, I haven't actually made that promise. But I've done something I did in that movie theater all those years ago. I invited Jesus to sit down beside me every time I eat.
It has dramatically changed my eating habits this week. I imagine myself "looking" across the kitchen table at Him. I feel His presence when I dine out and make choices from the menu. We sit together, and I want to feel comfortable. He isn't a hard task master. A biscotti with tea is fine with Him. In fact, nothing is off limits. It all has to do with self-control.
I'll write more next week. I confess I feel a bit uncomfortable with all of this. I haven't discovered a new diet plan. I certainly don't have all the answers. I simply give you what the Lord has given me.
If you'd like to be part of a conversation about dieting or anything else the Father has placed on your heart - please link in the comments. I'm not sure where all of this is going, but I do know it is always better to have friends along on the journey.
Joining my sweet friends Laura and Michelle today.
Blessings,
Linda