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Your relationship with food is more than just what you eat—it’s about how you see food, why you eat the way you do, and what beliefs you hold about it. Whether we realize it or not, our experiences, emotions, upbringing, and even our faith shape the way we interact with food. But have you ever stopped to ask: what does God say about our relationship with food?
What’s Your Relationship With Food?
If you had to describe your relationship with food in one word, what would it be? Some might say “love,” others “bumpy,” and some might even say “intense.” Many of us have a complicated history with food. We might turn to it for comfort in stressful times, celebrate with it, or struggle with overindulgence or restriction.
But here’s a reality check—your relationship with food isn’t just about personal preference or discipline. It’s deeply rooted in your upbringing, culture, and the habits you’ve developed over time. Think back: how did your parents or caregivers treat food? Were they obsessed with dieting? Did they push the idea that you had to “earn” your food? Did they celebrate with excessive portions? These early experiences shape how we approach food today.
For example, I grew up in a West Indian household where food was abundant. Eating large portions was expected, and celebrations revolved around food. Many of us can relate—food is deeply embedded in our family traditions. But as I grew in my faith and understanding of health, I realized that my mindset around food had to shift.
God’s Role in Our Relationship With Food
So, where does God fit into all of this? Have you ever considered that what you put in your body is a reflection of how you see yourself in Christ?
One of the simplest yet most powerful perspectives on food comes from categorizing it into two groups: God-made vs. man-made. If we are God’s creation—fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)—shouldn’t we prioritize what He designed for us to consume?
This isn’t about strict rules but about being mindful of what we eat. God didn’t create ultra-processed foods, artificial additives, or sugar-laden junk. He gave us whole, natural foods that nourish, heal, and sustain us. Thinking this way helps us honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
The Biblical Purposes of Food
Food is more than just fuel. Scripture reveals that food serves multiple purposes:
Nourishment – God created food to sustain us (Genesis 1:29).
Celebration – Feasts and meals were central to gatherings in biblical times (Luke 15:23).
Worship – Food was often part of offerings and sacrifices (Leviticus 7:11-15).
Enjoyment – God wants us to delight in His creation (Ecclesiastes 9:7).
Abstinence & Discipline – Fasting is a biblical principle that draws us closer to God (Matthew 6:16-18).
Fellowship – Sharing meals builds community and strengthens relationships (Acts 2:46-47).
Healing – Many foods God created have medicinal properties (Ezekiel 47:12).
Self-Control – Learning discipline through food choices strengthens us spiritually and physically (Galatians 5:22-23).
Where to Start in Improving Your Relationship With Food
If you want to improve your relationship with food, start by identifying where you struggle most. Ask yourself:
Do I eat mindlessly out of boredom or stress?
Do I rely too much on processed, man-made foods?
Do I lack structure and consistency in my eating habits?
Do I turn to food for comfort instead of turning to God?
Once you identify your biggest struggle, start making small, intentional changes. Meal prepping, planning balanced meals, and focusing on whole foods are simple yet powerful steps.
The key? Consistency over perfection. You don’t need to change everything overnight, but you do need to start.
The Power of Community & Accountability
One of the biggest game-changers in transforming your relationship with food is community. Walking this journey alone can be overwhelming, but when you surround yourself with like-minded people who share your values, it becomes easier to stay on track.
That’s why our Fit Church Unlimited community exists—to provide biblical guidance, accountability, and practical tools for living a healthy lifestyle while growing in faith.
If you’re serious about breaking unhealthy food patterns and stepping into a new way of eating that honors God and nourishes your body, join us. Let’s grow together and walk in health and wholeness as God intended!
A Deeper Dive Into Biblical Health
If this message resonates with you, and you want to go deeper into how faith and fitness intersect, my book, Fit Church: Destroying the Division Between Following Christ and Living a Healthy Life, is a must-read. In it, I explore how the church has neglected physical health, why it matters to God, and how you can take tangible steps toward a lifestyle that glorifies Him through your body.
Get your copy today an Amazon at https://a.co/d/hibUICO and start your transformation from the inside out!
Final Thought: A Perspective Shift Changes Everything
At the end of the day, your relationship with food isn’t just about food—it’s about your mindset, your beliefs, and how you see yourself in God’s eyes. When you shift your perspective and recognize that honoring God with your body includes what you eat, everything changes.
So, what’s one small step you can take today to align your eating habits with God’s design? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
Meet the Writer
Matthew Gay is the CEO of FIT Coach USA, a fitness coaching company offering online health coaching and programs with a faith-based approach. He is also the founder of FIT Church United and the author of the book "Fit Church: Destroying the Division Between Following Christ and Living A Healthy Life." Matthew aspires to make health and fitness a standard in the modern church. He lives in Chesapeake, VA, with his wife and two kids.
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