The Silent Epidemic – Part 1
If you’ve watched the news any time lately, you’ve probably been aware of the “epidemic” in our country. This epidemic isn’t caused by a virus; it isn’t caused by bacteria; it isn’t caused by any “disease” at all. The epidemic in our country, say the experts, is obesity. We are being told that we have a fat problem and that our society needs to do something about it! Much of our problems, say the experts, stem from poor nutrition: an imbalance in our diet, too much sugar and fat and not enough fiber and healthy foods like fruits and vegetables. Another problem, they say, is that we eat too much and because of overeating we multiply pound upon pound.
In contrast to our burgeoning physical waistlines, we are spiritually wasting away. Spiritually, we need to have a balanced diet as well; we need less spiritual sugar and fat; we need more spiritually healthy choices. It isn’t easy to give up a diet of sugar and fat, after all, they taste so good! Similarly, it isn’t easy to divorce ourselves from spiritual sugar and fat (i.e. the “feel good” approach to spirituality). So, how can we improve our spiritual diet?
First, we need a daily serving of prayer. We begin to grow weak spiritually when we think that we are self-sufficient and have no need to depend upon God. A daily serving of prayer is packed with the daily essential vitamins of humility, selflessness, and thankfulness. We need these to fight off the potential bulge of pride, selfishness, and arrogance. Paul wrote, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley