I want a cookie!

I just need to say it out loud.  I want a cookie.  I don’t need a cookie.  I’m not hungry.  I’ve already had two cookies.  I still want another cookie, and probably another cookie, and probably another.  I am aware that this is not a healthy choice.  If I was longing after celery, I wouldn’t hesitate to indulge. If I was craving broccoli or spinach, I would rush to the kitchen and not give it a second thought.  I KNOW what are the more appropriate choices for healthy eating.  I just don’t want to choose those things.  I want a cookie: one of those cookies with the frosting on top and then fun sprinkles to make you think you are indulging in a personal party.  Sigh.

I am sipping water.  I am repeating in my head, “Ahhh, this water is so refreshing!  It’s cool and it feels so great as it slips down my throat.”  It helps.  …. some.

What is it with wanting things I know are not so good for me?  Why is it so hard to keep long term goals in view so that I make choices that support the “dream” instead of the immediate want?

I’ve been reading my Bible in 1 Corinthians.  In the first couple of chapters, Paul is challenging the people of Corinth to grow up in a spiritual way.  They aren’t always acting as  God would want, instead they are making choices that reflect what Paul calls “the flesh.”  One of the Bible versions I read described this as “being human at a disappointing level of behavior or characteristics.”   This definition grabbed my heart.  It reminds me that God knows I am human.  He realizes the limitations that I have and He challenges me to live a life that is beyond those limitations. He knows that a life lived where I glorify Him by how I act and react is a more fulfilling and rewarding life.

The long term goal, the dream, is to be like Jesus.  In the immediate, there are times I want to act in ways that are not God glorifying.  I have my moments when I want to throw my little hissy fit and demand my way.  I want my cookie.  When I keep my eyes and my heart focused on who God is, then when I deny myself what I want, I remain satisfied with whatever He gives me, even if He gives me just water. My thirst is quenched, I am not sad or feeling guilty over the choice I made, and I know that I am successfully working toward the long term hope of being like Christ.

My water is tasting pretty good right now!