Today in The-Book-That-Is-Yet-To-Be-Named, I’m writing about a relationship I’ve had a hard time quitting – with food, that is. There are plenty of people who eat to live and can enjoy food without making it an idol. I have not been one of them. An idol is anything that occupies space in my heart and affections that should rightfully be occupied by Jesus. Food has been an idol for me because it has quite literally been my greatest source of comfort for as long as I can remember. It’s also been an addiction, because it’s been unhealthy for me in so many ways; but I’ve felt stuck. I’ve felt trapped. I’ve felt it would be impossible to change.
I’ve got good news for you! It isn’t easy, but change IS possible. There is NO addiction that is more powerful than the cross. There is no idol that was not already defeated by Jesus Christ 2,000 years ago.
I’ve been learning that though Jesus has already won the battle, my mind needs to get in line with that reality. God has been transforming me by the renewing of my mind. By partnering with Holy Spirit, I have the power and ability to create new neuropathways in my brain that lead to LIFE rather than death. Hope rather than despair. Freedom rather than bondage.
I can’t wait to share with you what I’ve been learning. I have not “arrived” (ha! far from it! dying laughing at the thought!!) but God in His goodness has not allowed me to stay in the same unhealthy place I used to be. He is teaching me slowly but surely what it means to live a Spirit-filled, Spirit-empowered life. He is demonstrating that transformation and freedom really are possible. Not just possible, but PAID FOR. These things are my inheritance, if I will just take hold of them!
COURTNEY GOODWIN 