Fast Food or Gourmet?

Posted on November 22, 2017 by Graeme Wilson in Victory Call

fast food

 They who wait for the Lord… ( Isaiah 40:31 ESV) 
Today I want to share two possible examples of waiting.  One I’ll call fast food and the other gourmet.  I choose this illustration because it quickly brings a picture to mind that makes a clear distinction between these two types of meals.
As someone who enjoys eating, I can tell you without hesitation that I get pleasure from both fast food and gourmet.  However, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to know that one is definitely better than the other.
Fast food is just that, fast.  We rush in, inhale it quickly to fill the void, and just as quickly get back to the busyness of our day.  Our tummies are full, our appetites momentarily satiated and our desire for food is no longer pressing in on us.
            Gourmet, on the other hand, requires lots of time.  Ingredients must be gathered and prepared.  Each course having its own steps, details all fixed on the presentation of delightful flavors and an experience our palate won’t soon forget.
There is no rushing.  Focused attention to each course is essential for the end result and the final presentation.  Whether it’s a three, five or seven-course meal, you sit for the full length of time required, savoring each delectable bite, allowing the senses to be aroused.  You rarely, if ever, rush away from gourmet.
Why? You’re usually so satisfied that all you want is to sit still and marvel over its goodness.  When you do get up, it isn’t to rush away and get busy, but rather to sit in a comfortable chair and revel.
Now take a leap and imagine the difference it would make in our everyday lives if our time with God was more often than not gourmet.  Believe me, I am fully aware of the arguments that can be made for time.  Gourmet requires time, and fast food is after all, still food, and most definitely meets the need.
My question for you is simple, does it really meet the deepest need your soul and spirit have for the Father, the One who is the Lover of your soul?
I, for one, know from first-hand experience that in the natural and in the spiritual, fast food is not enough to keep you healthy and strong.
May we choose today to plan, prepare and enjoy a gourmet meal with Him who was and is and is to come. 
I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.   As the deer pants for the water brooks,
so pants my soul for You, O God.  
(Job 23:12, Psalm 42:1)
Stephanie D. Paul
Stephanie served on staff at America’s Keswick as Women of Character Director. She is married to Sesky; together they have 2 adult children.
This devotion originally appeared in Real Victory for Real Life, Volume 2. To purchase your copy, call America’s Keswick at 1-800,453-7942 or go to amazon.com.
 

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