It was once hard for me to relax without constant snacking. Grazing while watching TV  is normal behavior.   Sitting down, whether to read or surf the internet meant snacking for me.  To avoid mindless eating, I used to keep busy.    When I started eating only when I was hungry, I got numerous tasks finished to avoid eating.  Since there are times I need to rest, I am learning the art of relaxing without food.

I have to eat to live and will always be surrounded by food.   Using “I need to relax” as an excuse no longer works.  God is helping me overcome temptations to overeat and make excuses.  1 Corinthians 10:13 is, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (Holy Bible, New International Version, 2011).  

Understanding I need God to overcome temptation helps me to live in a world of food.   He has removed my desire for excess food and changed me so I want to stop overeating.  I can no longer use busyness to avoid eating.  This past week, I was exhausted and needed a break.  This was he first time I successfully relaxed without snacking.  I am gradually shedding old habits as well as pounds with God’s help.