Happy and Blessed - Pt. 16

 

I hate the double-minded, but I love your law. You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word. Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God. Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live, and let me not be put to shame in my hope! Hold me up, that I may be safe and have regard for your statutes continually! You spurn all who go astray from your statutes, for their cunning is in vain. All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross, therefore I love your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of you, and I am afraid of your judgments. (Psalm 119:113-120 ESV).

 

I grew up around some of the best Texas Barbeque to be found anywhere or anytime. My Dad always had a “side” business that he operated out of the grocery store we owned. He would begin early in the morning with oak, or mesquite, getting the fire just right in the cinder block fire-pit that measured 8 feet long and four feet wide. The meat was always seasoned with his personal combination of spices and then slow grilled for the perfect taste and tenderness. People would begin coming in mid-morning to buy his barbeque. I always found the “ends” of the ribs after school were the best. Even today, I grill nearly every day; and, though I’ve gotten close, I’ve never been able to duplicate his recipe. Ribs are my comfort food.

 

What’s your favorite comfort food? What is that special treat that gives you a sense of well-being, a moment of satisfaction? Statistics say that the most popular comfort foods in North America are ice cream, potato chips, and chocolate. I think its fine to enjoy an occasional sweet treat. But health experts warn that the increasing consumption of comfort food is a key factor in today’s widespread diabetes and obesity. When we are under stress, it’s difficult to put the right amount of ice cream into the bowl. Overeating becomes an unhealthy response to issues that play on our emotions. I hope I’m safer since I prefer the slow smoked taste of good meat.

 

There is no doubt that all of us need comfort from time to time. Sad and difficult times happen in everyone’s life. And everyone occasionally feels overwhelmed and stressed out. When such times come, we can always find true comfort in the Word of God. Our reading today reminds us of God’s wonderful promises and sensible directives for life. His firm conviction is that the Word of God is our best refuge in tough times. Next time you feel stressed, try using the psalmist’s technique. Dive into God’s Word, meditate on its wisdom, rediscover his promises for you in Jesus Christ, and trust those promises with all your heart. That’s the real comfort food!