For a long time I resisted the label of food addict.

I am a lot of things: Chosen, Redeemed, Forgiven, Child of God. In some ways, identifying myself by my sin feels wrong.

However, I have to be careful not to forget that I do struggle with food addiction.

When I have a string of good days, it can be tempting to think that I am all better and can eat normally again.

When I am surrounded by normal, non-addictive eaters, I start to think I can eat just a little and be okay.

But that is not how my brain works.

When I sit and talk to other people who struggle with compulsive eating, I am reminded of how easy it is to forget.

I hear stories of people who chose to take that first bite off plan and the pain that quickly followed.

I am reminded of how hard it is to come back from a binge, and how the addictive cycle always just gets worse the more we give in to it. 

And I am not unique or special. Their stories are my story. I’ve been in the ditch, and I could easily go there again.

My recovery isn’t something to be taken for granted. It’s a precious gift, and I want to honor it with every food decision I make.

And so today I want us all to remember that while we have been set free from bondage to sin, we are still living in the body, a temporary dwelling, that is weak and in need of protection.

I pray the Lord will help us to remember the pain of addiction but also cherish the freedom we have been given.

Let’s live surrendered to His plan for our lives, one meal at a time.

Kristy