Today’s thoughts by Deborah Ard

Romans 12:1-2 NIV — Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Last week Julie and I shared about the habit of exercise. This week we are sharing some of our food habits. A habit is a settled tendency or usual manner of behavior.

We live in a fast paced world filled with many options when it comes to food. The world pulls us to embrace fatty, processed foods. Yesterday I shared that I am in the habit of planning meals a week at a time. Today I challenge you to not conform to the world, but to step out of your comfort zone and meal plan. Here is what I do:

1. “Shop” my pantry — I take an inventory of what I have in my pantry, fridge, and freezer that could be used for next week’s meals.
2. Make a list of the dates/days for the next two week period.
3. Look at my calendar and note on the meal plan any days you know you may be eating out or ordering carry out. For example, I do not cook on Fridays. That rule was established early in our marriage and is a story for another day. Also, note any days you may have a late day at work or an evening activity so that your food prep for those days is minimal.
4. Begin filling in meals by each day. I have a note pad with me to make a grocery list as I add meals to the plan. 
5. Grocery shop. Since my husband appreciates the money we save with meal planning, grocery shopping has become a shared experience with us. Every two weeks we have an outing together to shop at Aldi and sometimes we also go to Sam’s Club.
6. Sometimes the hardest part of my meal planning is deciding what to cook. Therefore, I use a notebook to record my meal plans so I can look back at meals we have had and enjoyed. I also have taken the time to make a list of all the recipes I tend to use. As a result, I have a bank of ideas to refer to if needed.

The habit of meal planning takes time and effort. Are you willing to step out of your boat of comfort and take the risk of walking on water to meal plan? Email us at waterwalkers29@gmail.com if you would like more information or if you have questions.

Let’s pray. Dear God, guide and direct my thoughts as I plan meals for my family. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

@biblegateway @youversion

Make sure to check out our recipe page, At The Table.