For neither does circumcision mean anything, nor does on uncircumcision but only a new creation. Galatians 6:15
I love that the Bible has an answer to every problem I face here on earth.
I recently saw a naturopathic and have been torn over going back to an extremely rigid diet to help address MS symptoms. Which I’ve avoiding because I knew it would only create more discord within. When I moved in I knew I would loose control over the kitchen. And I knew by going to a holistic doctor would further enforce the divide in my mind between those who subscribe to that belief system and those that don’t. But I succumbed, and of course it did all I thought it would.
In fact I was heading out to post an ad on the local community board looking for others see food as their medicine. But something stopped me. I was going down the wrong road.
What do you do when you’re moving in a certain direction and your instincts start waving red flags but your body is getting green flags too?
For me I’ve learned (the hard way) to Stop. I retreat and spend more time with God and in His Word. He always reveals to me more of what the problem is and what I can do about it. (But I have to realize too, I can’t go back and plead ignorance just because I don’t want to follow through.)
Today I got the wrap on the knuckles I needed. It’s not about whether I do it according to us or them, but rather, it’s about me taking back the control. Going back under the law. And the solution is always giving back the control to God and becoming the new creation he is working in me. Living under grace.
Of course I’m going to make mistakes, but overall if I am serious about getting back to building our relationship, I will begin to recognize him and he will direct my every step. One day at a time. He does not take harsh pivotal turns. And you can rest assured if you do, it’s not from him.
Yes healthy eating is good and certain foods are inflammatory. Yes, it’s best to avoid them all together but it’s not the green light to go all-in for several food groups at once for a pivotal turn around of where I find myself.
As I increase my understanding and knowledge of Him, I will come to know Him and his gentleness. He knows my past and will work with it. He won’t throw the baby out with the bath water but he will show me the best path in my situation. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30
So while I was reading all this, a couple of folks from our courtyard flashed in my mind. I don’t spend any time here because I find it draining and depressing and Covid has been my gracious out. But I always feel their curiosity as to why I am so cheerful especially when obvious physical decline accompanies me. I’ve sat down only a brief couple of times.
Then a thought came to me that I saw two ladies walking out by the duck pond the other day - for the first time ever – and maybe I should start spending some time with them. Right here in my own backyard there is plenty need of hope. I could busy myself less with diet and across-town food choices to make room for that…
Because in the end, it’s not whether you followed John or Jane, it’s about sharing the source of our hope, God, and the love that we’ve found. And from there, He too can direct their steps that is best for them.
And isn’t that what makes life worthwhile? Teaching a man to fish.