“And the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying to them: ‘These are the animals which you may eat among all the animals that are on the earth.'” – Leviticus 11:1-2
God’s Guidelines for Food
In the scriptures, we find that God gives us specific instructions concerning the food we should consume. These guidelines serve as a means of reminding us that, as His creation, our bodies are temples. When we understand that certain foods can be harmful or defile us, it inspires us to make conscientious choices aligned with His commands. Through obedience to these guidelines, we express our love for God and acknowledge His wisdom in what we eat. By adhering to God’s food guidelines, we foster our earthly well-being and nurture our spiritual health.
Leviticus 11:3
“You may eat any animal that has a divided hoof and that chews the cud.” – Leviticus 11:3
Leviticus 11:4
“There are some that only chew the cud or only have a divided hoof; but you must not eat them.” – Leviticus 11:4
Leviticus 11:7
“And the pig, though it has a divided hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you.” – Leviticus 11:7
Leviticus 11:9
“These you may eat of all that are in the waters: whatever has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the rivers, that you may eat.” – Leviticus 11:9
Leviticus 11:10
“But anything in the seas or the rivers that does not have fins and scales, all that moves in the waters or any living thing which is in the waters, they are an abomination to you.” – Leviticus 11:10
Unclean Animals
God’s Word speaks plainly about unclean animals. Such guidance is rooted in His desire for us to remain healthy, both physically and spiritually. While some animals may appear harmless, they could potentially bring impurities or diseases into our lives. By avoiding these unclean animals, we align ourselves with God’s wisdom, demonstrating our commitment to living life according to His will. Together, we can choose wisely regarding what we put into our bodies, turning to God for direction and understanding.
Leviticus 11:13
“And these you shall regard as an abomination among the birds; they shall not be eaten; they are an abomination: the eagle, the vulture, the buzzard.” – Leviticus 11:13
Leviticus 11:20
“All flying insects that creep on all fours shall be an abomination to you.” – Leviticus 11:20
Leviticus 11:24
“By these you shall become unclean; whoever touches the carcass of any of them shall be unclean until evening.” – Leviticus 11:24
Leviticus 11:29
“These also shall be unclean to you among the crawling things that creep on the earth: the mole, the mouse, and the large lizard after its kind.” – Leviticus 11:29
Isaiah 66:17
“Those who sanctify and purify themselves to go to the gardens after an idol in the midst, eating swine’s flesh and the abomination and the mouse, shall be consumed together.” – Isaiah 66:17
Spiritual Wisdom in Our Choices
Our choices about food aren’t merely physical. The Bible invites us to consider the spiritual ramifications of what we eat. It invites us to think deeply about how our decisions reflect our faith and our relationship with God. By consciously avoiding certain foods, we act in obedience to God’s commands, showing respect for His wisdom and guidance. We must encourage one another to be thoughtful about what we allow into our bodies, keeping our spiritual lives vibrant and connected to God.
1 Corinthians 6:19
“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” – 1 Corinthians 6:19
1 Timothy 4:4
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.” – 1 Timothy 4:4
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Matthew 15:11
“Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” – Matthew 15:11
Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 14:17
Community Living and Dietary Choices
As we discuss the food we should not eat, it’s important to remember the impact our dietary habits can have on our community. Together, we can lead by example, encouraging one another to uphold God’s standards and strengthen relationships based on shared beliefs. When we are mindful of our choices, we foster an atmosphere of support and encouragement, prompting each other to honor God through our lives, including our diets. Let’s inspire those around us to develop spiritually healthy practices that glorify Him.
Romans 14:21
“It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.” – Romans 14:21
Colossians 3:17
“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” – Colossians 3:17
Philippians 4:5
“Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.” – Philippians 4:5
1 Corinthians 10:31
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” – Ephesians 4:29
Seeking Wisdom in Food Choices
Every choice we make regarding food can be an opportunity to seek God’s wisdom. The Bible reassures us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God, who gives generously without finding fault. When we make our food choices with prayer and consideration, we can expect to be guided toward options that honor our health and faith. By leaning on God for direction, we can make wise dietary decisions that uplift our spirits and enhance our well-being.
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 4:7
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
Psalms 119:105
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalms 119:105
Romans 12:2
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” – Romans 12:2
Understanding Our Body’s Needs
Knowing what food we should not eat also involves understanding the needs of our bodies. God made us with purpose, and He desires us to care for our physical forms. By being attentive to nutrient needs and avoiding harmful substances, we participate in honoring God’s creation. When we choose foods that nurture our health, we are better equipped to serve Him and one another. Together, we can cultivate a lifestyle that embraces health and vitality while celebrating God’s design.
1 Corinthians 10:24
“Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.” – 1 Corinthians 10:24
Proverbs 17:22
“A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.” – Proverbs 17:22
Psalms 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalms 147:3
3 John 1:2
“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” – 3 John 1:2
Proverbs 31:15
“She also rises while it is yet night, and provides food for her household, and a portion for her maidservants.” – Proverbs 31:15
Final Thoughts
As we look at the verses about food we should not eat, it becomes clear how important it is to consider our choices carefully. God has provided us with guidelines to protect both our physical and spiritual health. We are reminded that what we eat can have implications beyond our bodies, affecting our relationships and community.
It’s encouraging to know that while we strive to make healthy food choices, we can always seek God’s wisdom. When we lean on Him for guidance, we are empowered to honor Him in all aspects of our lives, including our dietary decisions. Together, as a community, we can encourage one another to follow God’s principles and support each other in leading healthier lives.
Remember, each choice we make can reflect our love for Him and for one another. We can learn more about similar topics like cannibalism and honey to gain further insights into how God’s Word guides us in all areas of life.