Children Overeating ~ Off Limits?

When you see your children overeating or gaining weight, are you allowed to talk to them about it?   I would venture to say that most parents think it is wrong to say anthing to them.  They can confront their children if they are lying, stealing, cheating, etc. but if they eat too much, they aren't allowed to confront them with this issue.

Ken and I disagreed with this philosophy.  If we saw our children doing anything that we thought was harmful or against Scripture, we talked to them about it.

Many will say that this will lead to eating disorders in women.  How many women do you know that haven't struggled in the area of weight and eating?  I think it is just something most women will struggle with.  Most people struggle with overeating, because food is so abundant and delicious in America.

I know it was hard for our girls if we ever brought it up to them but isn't it hard when anyone brings up any issue in your life that may be a bad habit or sin?  Confrontation is never fun but we are encouraged in Scripture to exhort, rebuke, and encourage each other.  We can hold each other accountable and help each other overcome our weaknesses and sins.

This is a touchy subject.  I have never been afraid to tackle touchy subjects, as you know.  Gluttony is clearly defined in the Bible as a sin.  I would encourage you to train your children in self-control in this area as well as all areas of personal discipline while they are young.  Set a good example to them.  Eat healthy, exercise, and get good amounts of sleep.  Then, when they are adults, they will eat healthy, exercise and get good amounts of sleep!

Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.        

Proverbs 23:20,21

P.S.  No, Emma is not a glutton at this time.  She just loves to help me with my chocolate shake!