"A Woman of Moderation"

I have been convicted regarding my lack of discipline in how I approach eating and food. Really, it's a hobby, a recreational activity, and...what I often turn to when I need help.
What? Isn't the Lord the one who is "our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1)?
Ummm...yeah. Him and chocolate.
And salty things. And other sweet things. And things that are crunchy or chewy. And pretty much anything that can be swallowed. They are, in their way, my refuge and strength.

Problem. I've known for quite a while that I've got some misplaced worship, but food is so easy to rationalize! It's not really mind-altering; it's not really addictive; it's not overtly sinful; I have little kids...and so I let it go.

Well, pray for me, friends, because I'm getting off this train. I have to because I know God doesn't want us to compromise in our love for Him. And I can guarantee that I will not succeed in reversing a lifetime of misplaced love without prayer, a strength of commitment I don't have on my own, and a lot of hard work that I don't really have the courage for. So basically, God is going to have to do this in me.

My friend Tara brought to my attention a book by Dee Brestin called "A Woman of Moderation: Breaking the Chains of Poor Eating Habits." I'm starting to work through it now, and I'm hoping it will give me some insight into myself and into the way the Lord wants me to be. One thing that I'm particularly interested in practicing is praying through the Psalms and turning what she calls "soul hunger" into worship and prayer rather than into Mint Chocolate Chip. I'm hoping to use the blog here to give you updates on this process.