“I dare not say to you or to anyone else, You must eat only two meals a day. But I do say that too much food should not be placed in the stomach at one time, for when this is done, the stomach has no chance to do its work properly. For some, three meals a day are better than two.” “For thirty years, I have taken only two meals a day, and I have not eaten between meals. I know for my own part that two meals can be so arranged as to be perfectly convenient. Yet no one is to make his own case a criterion for others. Each one should study carefully the organism of his body, that he may know how to deal intelligently with the body, and that he may be sure that intemperance in eating is not destroying the vital forces of the system. Each one should know for himself how to care properly for the machinery of the body, for no one else can do this for him.” This Day With God page 340.4-5 by EGW.
This passage from “This Day With God” by Ellen G. White provides some valuable lessons and insights regarding the topic of eating habits and their impact on our health:
- Individual Variability: Ellen G. White emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to eating. She acknowledges that people have different needs and metabolic rates, and therefore, she does not prescribe a strict rule of eating only two meals a day for everyone. This highlights the importance of understanding and respecting our individual bodies and their unique requirements.
- Moderation and Timing: The passage underscores the significance of moderation in eating. It suggests that overloading the stomach with too much food in one sitting can hinder proper digestion and the body’s ability to process nutrients efficiently. Instead, it promotes the idea of spreading food intake throughout the day to allow the stomach to work effectively.
- Self-awareness: Ellen G. White encourages individuals to become aware of their own bodies and how they respond to different eating patterns. This self-awareness is crucial for making informed decisions about diet and nutrition. It means paying attention to one’s body signals, hunger cues, and energy levels to determine the most suitable eating schedule and portion sizes.
- Avoiding Intemperance: The passage warns against intemperance in eating. Intemperance refers to excessive or immoderate behavior, and in this context, it relates to overindulgence in food. Overeating can strain the body’s systems and lead to various health issues. Therefore, the message promotes balance and mindful consumption.
- Personal Responsibility: Ellen G. White stresses the importance of each individual taking responsibility for their own health. Instead of relying on external sources or following one-size-fits-all advice, she encourages people to educate themselves about their own bodies and make informed choices regarding their diet and lifestyle. This empowers individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
In summary, this passage encourages a balanced and individualized approach to eating, with an emphasis on moderation, self-awareness, and personal responsibility for one’s health. It reminds us that what works for one person may not be suitable for another, and it encourages us to be mindful of our eating habits to maintain optimal health.
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
