During a pandemic, fear is everywhere. Maybe it is in the form of being scared to leave your house. Maybe it is feeling anxious when you need to go to the grocery store. Maybe it is cancelling important medical appointments. Maybe it is not wanting to get out of bed. Fear, worry, anxiety, even panic are all around us, and reading or listening or watching the news doesn't help. Our favorite shows, podcasts, music channels, magazines - all have pandemic-related statements and themes.
If we can't get away from it, how do we deal with it? The Scriptures tell us that we should have no fear (see references below) and we have the assurance that God is with us always. In the midst of whatever life circumstances come along, no matter what the current crisis may be, we can rely on the Lord, His love, His everlasting presence, His peace. We can be responsible, obey regulations, care for our communities, and live life to the fullest.
How does this relate to eating? What does this have to do with "positive nutrition?" When we are living life driven by fear, we can struggle significantly with eating attitudes and behaviors. It can be very difficult to sense true hunger and fullness, and to trust it, when we are anxious. Are our eating habits different in a crisis? Maybe. Sometimes we can't get what we need or want from the store. Sometimes we feel extra hungry so we eat more. Sometimes we don't feel hungry at all. Sometimes we order out more or cook at home more. Is this temporary? Usually, although there will be some habits that will remain after the crisis is over.
How can I eat well in the midst of a crisis? Some previous blog posts addressed this. The main idea is to remain mindful of your body's needs, regardless of your emotions. If you need support, you can find it. Please feel free to contact Positive Nutrition for help, even if you are not in Georgia. We can connect you to help in your area. Remember, if we trust the Lord, we need not fear anything!
Be safe, and eat well and prosper!
#PositiveNutrition #eatwellandprosper #covid19 #nutrition #nofear #trusttheLord #wecandothis #inthistogether
Scriptures About Fear, in the English Standard Version (ESV):
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" - Psalm 27:1
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea." - Psalm 46:1-2
"The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?" - Psalm 118:6
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10
"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." - Matthew 10:29-31
"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." - 2 Timothy 1:7
"There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear." - 1 John 4:18a
For further study, read Philippians 4:4-8.