I Must Make a Choice

I am a binge eater. Chocolate and ice cream are my foods of choice.

It is not something I am proud of. I recognize binge eating provides only a temporary, false sense of comfort and does not solve the problem but creates problems of its own. There is the guilt of eating unhealthy things—no one I know binge eats fruits and vegetables—and in unhealthy quantities. This, of course, leads to indigestion, constipation, and a host of issues that would take too long to name. I have found myself on many occasions coming home after work, usually the source of the frustration, with a quart of ice cream or a lovely little cupcake or a Cinnabon treat. I plant myself in the living room and eat way too much while watching television. Not a pretty sight! I take small comfort in the fact I am not alone, and probably, someone reading this right now can relate. As I get older, I must face the fact I can no longer take chances with my health by dealing with my anger, job and family frustrations, or sadness by smothering my feelings with food. I must take a stand, learn to respond to crises and not react.

Ironically, I have the key to dealing with stress right in front of me—the Word. God has so many promises that can provide solutions to the problems of life.

I shake my head at my failed attempts to go straight to Him.

His Word says that any who “labour and are heavy laden” can come to Him, for He offers rest (Matthew 11:28, KJV). He admonishes us to trust Him with all our heart, and He will guide us (Proverbs 3:5, 6, KJV). He promises, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, KJV).

When the hard times come, when we feel we cannot face the world with strength or courage, when we just want to run and hide away with a carton of Ben and Jerry’s Karamel Sutra, we can resist the urge and throw ourselves straight into the arms of the One who can walk on water and calm the stormy seas. As we do this, we will be able to proclaim together, “We are more than conquerors through him that loved us” (Romans 8:37, KJV).

Greta Michelle Joachim-Fox-Dyett