Gluttony

We are blessed beyond our comprehension living here in America. Our standard of life is so far above that of the majority of the world population. We rarely remember that during the day to day.

James 4:10 tells us to 'humble ourselves in the sight of the Lord and he will lift us up'

If we can realize how blessed we are, determine the one thing that we love the most and make the decision to refrain from it then the Lord will raise us up in exchange for our humility.

Please note Matthew 6 in regard to fasting as well as humility:

16 “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 17 But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.<sup>[d]

As we fast next week, let us do it secretly. Don't tell anyone that you are fasting. This can come across as if your are bringing glory to yourself. The act of fasting should be between you and God as an avenue to increase your personal relationship with him.

In reference to gluttony, Matthew 19:24 states:

"</sup>Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

<sup>Why is this true?

How did the rest of this story play out and why did the rich young ruler decline Jesus' demand?

Please determine what you are going to refrain from starting this Wed night. We will be doing a group fast so that we can not only pray for ourselves but also the entire group.</sup>

Contentment

The human nature is to never be satisfied. We are always looking to improve our social status, our wordly possessions, our appetites, and to keep up with the neighbors.

Why is that? How can we learn to be happy with what we have?

1 timothy 6:

Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain^[c] we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9 But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Phillipians 4:10....

But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ^[b] who strengthens me.

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