What Does The Bible Say About Eating Too Much? (25 Bible Verses)

The Bible often talks about believers being set apart, called to live differently from the world around them. This concept of holiness and distinction is central to the Christian faith, encouraging followers of Christ to reflect God’s character in their lives. Let’s explore what it means to be set apart and how we can live out this calling.

Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Stupidity

What Does The Bible Say About Eating Too Much

1 Corinthians 10:31

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

This verse reminds us that our actions, including our eating habits, should be done with the intention of bringing glory to God. It encourages us to have self-control and to make conscious choices about what and how much we eat, honoring God with our body and health.

Proverbs 23:20-21

Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.

In these verses, we are warned against the dangers of excessive eating and drinking. It cautions us about the negative consequences that can arise from indulging in gluttonous behavior, such as poverty and a lack of self-discipline.

Proverbs 25:16

If you find honey, eat just enough– too much of it, and you will vomit.

This verse illustrates the importance of moderation in our eating habits. It encourages us to find a balance and not to overindulge, as excessive consumption can lead to negative outcomes.

Luke 21:34

But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.

This verse cautions us against becoming too immersed in the pleasures and distractions of this world, including excessive eating and drinking. It advises us to be mindful of our physical and spiritual well-being, lest we lose sight of our ultimate purpose.

Proverbs 13:25

The righteous eat to their hearts’ content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.

This verse emphasizes the importance of righteousness in our eating habits. It suggests that those who live in accordance with God’s principles will be satisfied, while those who reject righteousness will always remain unfulfilled, regardless of how much they consume.

Philippians 3:19

Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.

In this verse, we are warned about the dangers of making our physical desires, such as excessive eating, our ultimate focus. It cautions against prioritizing earthly pleasures over spiritual matters, as it ultimately leads to a destructive path.

Proverbs 21:17

Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich.

This verse highlights that those who constantly seek pleasure and indulge in excess, including overconsumption of food and drink, may experience negative consequences such as poverty and a lack of true richness.

1 Timothy 4:8

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

This verse reminds us that while taking care of our physical health through proper eating habits and exercise is important, it should not overshadow the importance of cultivating godliness. Our focus should be directed towards spiritual growth and eternal promises.

1 Corinthians 9:27

No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Here, the apostle Paul speaks of the need for self-discipline and self-control, particularly in relation to our physical bodies. He acknowledges the importance of exercising control over our desires and impulses, including our eating habits, to ensure that we do not hinder our own spiritual progress.

Romans 14:17

For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

This verse highlights that our focus should not solely be on what we eat or drink, but rather on cultivating a life characterized by goodness, peace, and joy through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It reminds us that our spiritual growth is not determined by food, but by our pursuit of righteousness.

Proverbs 25:27

It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to search out matters that are too deep.

This verse draws a parallel between the excessive consumption of honey and the pursuit of knowledge that goes beyond our understanding. It encourages us to exercise moderation in both our physical and intellectual endeavors, avoiding extremes that may lead to negative outcomes.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.

These verses remind us that our bodies are sacred and belong to God. As temples of the Holy Spirit, we are called to honor Him by taking care of our bodies, including our eating habits. This serves as a reminder that our choices should reflect our gratitude for the gift of salvation.

Proverbs 23:2

and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony.

This verse uses a strong metaphor to emphasize the dangers of succumbing to the sin of gluttony. It urges us to have self-discipline and to take drastic measures to combat unhealthy eating habits, recognizing the harm that overindulgence can cause.

Proverbs 23:6-7

Do not eat the bread of a begrudging host, do not crave his delicacies; for he is the kind of person who is always thinking about the cost. “Eat and drink,” he says to you, but his heart is not with you.

These verses caution against seeking pleasure and satisfaction from someone who is driven by selfish motives. It reminds us to be discerning about the company we keep and the influences around us, encouraging us to prioritize genuine relationships over temporary indulgences.

Daniel 1:8

But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.

In this verse, we see Daniel’s commitment to honor God through his eating habits. Despite being in a tempting situation, he boldly makes the choice to abstain from consuming food that would compromise his allegiance to God. It serves as an example of the importance of prioritizing spiritual principles over earthly desires.

Proverbs 28:7

A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father.

This verse points out the negative influence that can come from associating with those who indulge in excessive eating. It encourages us to seek wisdom and discernment, understanding the importance of choosing our companions wisely in order to align ourselves with godly values.

Luke 12:15

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

Jesus warns against the greed that drives us to seek an abundance of possessions, including an excess of food. This verse serves as a reminder that true life and fulfillment are not found in material wealth but in our relationship with God and our pursuit of His kingdom.

Proverbs 23:3

Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive.

This verse advises against coveting and indulging in the delicacies offered by those who may have ulterior motives. It highlights that the allure of such food can be deceptive, leading us astray from what truly matters and causing harm in the long run.

Proverbs 16:32

Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.

This verse extols the value of self-control and patience, emphasizing that these qualities are more valuable than worldly achievements. It encourages us to exercise self-control in all aspects of life, including our eating habits, knowing that it leads to greater blessings and personal growth.

Proverbs 25:28

Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.

This verse compares the lack of self-control to the vulnerability of a city with broken walls. It serves as a reminder of the importance of self-discipline in all areas of life, including our eating habits, to guard against potential harm and negative consequences.

1 Timothy 3:2-3

Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

In these verses, we find qualities that should be present in leaders within the church. It emphasizes the importance of self-control and temperance in their lives, indicating that these qualities should also be cultivated by all believers as they strive to live in accordance with God’s principles and set an example for others.

Proverbs 25:16

If you find honey, eat just enough– too much of it, and you will vomit.

This verse illustrates the importance of moderation in our eating habits. It encourages us to find a balance and not to overindulge, as excessive consumption can lead to discomfort and negative consequences.

Philippians 3:19

Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.

In this verse, we are warned about the dangers of making our physical desires, such as excessive eating, our ultimate focus. It cautions against prioritizing earthly pleasures over spiritual matters, as it ultimately leads to destruction and shame.

Proverbs 21:20

The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.

This verse contrasts the behavior of the wise and the foolish when it comes to eating. The wise are portrayed as individuals who exercise self-control and enjoy food in a measured and intentional manner, while the foolish are depicted as those who lack self-discipline and consume their food thoughtlessly.