The Tchoupitoulas Challenge. It’s impossible to pronounce but worth the effort. This ice cream creation is a product of the Creole Creamery in New Orleans, and it’s the only food challenge I’ve ever seriously considered. I have little interest in the worlds spiciest wings or the nations meatiest burger. But, something seemed magical about eight scoops of ice cream, eight toppings, whipped cream, sprinkles, cherries and wafers.
I never attempted the feat, partially for the fact that it cost $30 but also out of fear I may come to hate ice cream, which would be an unparalleled tragedy. The truth is no one wins these food challenges. It may start off fun, but they always end in stomach aches.
I’ve never craved kale and quinoa. I know I should. I know I need to fuel my body well. But, what I crave is pizza, cheese covered anything, and an Outback Bloomin’ Onion.
In much the same way, I’m not naturally inclined to hunger for righteousness. I hunger for what umps up my pride, provides pleasure, and allows my mind to momentarily check out. I know I should pursue righteousness, but there are so many other tantalizing options. How do we change? How do we transform our spiritual tastebuds?
The Fit Friend:
The more I’m around my carrot eating Cross-fit friends, the more I care about the food I consume. The more I’m around prayerful, mission minded, heart-for-Jesus people, the more I hunger to live like them.
The Registered Race:
If I’ve signed up for a race, I’ll eat well. Jogging isn’t enjoyable on a stomach full of junk. When I’ve signed up to serve, I depend on Jesus, and I seek His righteousness.
The Definite Difference
When I see a change in what the scale says or how my clothes fit, I’m more likely to keep my good eating habits. When I notice a change in my heart, words, actions, it reminds me that Jesus is working in my life. And, I’m satisfied.
Do any of those jumpstart a hunger for righteousness in your life? What would you add to the list?
Praying that we would hunger after what really matters!
I’ve read your posts the past couple weeks and I am so blessed by them! I’m eager to read more!
I’m on the never-ending diet-improving journey. When I got into my mid-60s, the journey got harder. I’d hoped I could rely on my paltry wisdom to make it easier. Fat chance!
I have signed up for a lifelong race as God’s child. I find I’ve never learned enough or grown close enough to Him that I can sit it out. The race continues until we join Him for eternity. Praise Him that He comes along beside us and gives us the strength to run and the help to stay in when we are too weak.
Thanks so much for the encouragment! The race continues. Thanks for reading!
Seeing results definitely helps us stay on track, whether it’s eating or spiritual disciplines. For me, one of the most encouraging, make-me-come-back-for-more experiences is when the Holy Spirit reveals some small nugget of truth in the Scriptures. I’ll think on it all day and dig into related passages and look forward to the next day’s quiet time.
Great post!