The sin of gluttony is more than simply overeating or indulgence; it’s a sign of misplaced desire, where we seek comfort, fulfillment, or escape in excess consumption—whether food, drink, entertainment, or anything else we misuse to fill an inner emptiness.
Lenten Devotional – Day 13
“For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” (Proverbs 23:21)
The Sin of Gluttony
Gluttony is dangerous because it distorts our relationship with the blessings God gives us. Instead of gratefully enjoying His provision, we depend excessively on physical or emotional comforts, ultimately distracting ourselves from our true spiritual needs and distancing ourselves from God.
Trying to psychologically hide from difficulties and stress by giving in to alcohol, drugs (even mild ones), or overeating inevitably leads to addiction.
Thus, what starts as a small attempt to cope irresponsibly can create severe problems that ruin our lives. For example overeating not only poses the threat of obesity but also significantly increases the risk of severe eating disorders.
Therefore, approaching these comforts irresponsibly is not just harmful—it’s spiritually dangerous.
Recognizing Gluttony in Your Life
Take an honest look today: Are there areas where you’re consistently indulging excessively?
The sin of gluttony can manifest not only through excessive food or drink but also through binge-watching, endless scrolling on social media, obsessive shopping, or any compulsive activity that leaves you spiritually numb or emotionally dissatisfied.
Acknowledging these unhealthy patterns is essential for reclaiming balance, spiritual clarity, and genuine peace. Understanding what drives your excess helps you address your deeper spiritual hunger and return to the nourishing presence of God.
Steps Toward Moderation and Spiritual Fulfillment
The real problem is not binge eating or binge drinking, but a lack of order and discipline in daily life. Lent is a wonderful opportunity to put things in order.
Begin by bringing your struggles with gluttony directly to God in prayer. Ask for His wisdom, strength, and healing to break the cycles of unhealthy excess.
Commit to practicing moderation through intentional choices. Fast occasionally to refocus your desires and deepen your reliance on God. Replace excessive habits with spiritually enriching practices such as prayer, meditation on scripture, or acts of kindness and service to others.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
My brother, finding freedom from gluttony, opens your heart to genuine satisfaction, deeper gratitude, and meaningful connection with God and others.
Daily Actions and Tips:
- Reflect today on any excessive behaviors or comforts you frequently seek to fill emotional or spiritual voids.
- Commit to a practical fast or abstinence from one specific indulgence during Lent.
- Replace excess with intentional spiritual practices—prayer, scripture reading, or serving others.
- Regularly express gratitude for God’s provisions, reinforcing moderation and spiritual contentment.
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, today I bring before You my struggle with gluttony. Forgive me for seeking comfort and fulfillment in excess rather than turning to You. Grant me wisdom to recognize and break these unhealthy cycles. Strengthen me to pursue moderation and to cherish Your blessings with genuine gratitude and reverence. Fill my inner emptiness with Your sustaining presence, peace, and joy. Lead me to greater self-control, spiritual nourishment, and a deeper intimacy with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
