Gluttony is more than overeating. It is the sin of excess—when we seek satisfaction in food, drink, or physical indulgence to the point of obsession. It is not about nourishment, but about overindulgence. When desire controls us, and when temporary pleasures become our escape or identity, we cross the line into gluttony.
Why is Gluttony a Cardinal Sin?
Gluttony is a cardinal sin because it places bodily pleasure above spiritual discipline. It distorts God’s good gifts into harmful cravings and distracts us from our true hunger—our need for God.
While eating and enjoyment are not wrong in themselves, gluttony is a form of self-centeredness. It says: “I must have more. I cannot be satisfied.” And like all sin, it turns the soul inward, away from others, and away from God.
“Their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” * — Philippians 3:19 (NIV)*
Gluttony dulls the senses, weakens self-control, and can even become a form of escape from stress, sadness, or spiritual emptiness. Instead of turning to prayer, we turn to the pantry.
Scripture’s Wisdom on Gluttony
The Bible warns us about the dangers of excess:
“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.” * — Proverbs 23:20–21 (NIV)*
This sin is subtle because it often masquerades as comfort. But real comfort comes from the Holy Spirit—not from overindulgence. Jesus Himself fasted in the wilderness to show us that man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God (Matthew 4:4)
Gluttony in Our Culture Today
In a world of fast food, consumerism, and endless choices, gluttony isn’t just about food—it’s a mindset. It can include:
- Binge-watching without rest
- Scrolling endlessly on social media
- Buying what we don’t need
- Seeking constant pleasure or comfort to numb pain
At its core, gluttony is the abuse of freedom, forgetting that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).
The Virtue That Counters Gluttony: Temperance
Temperance is the discipline of balance. It teaches us to enjoy what we have without being enslaved by it. It helps us master our appetites rather than being mastered by them. Through fasting, prayer, simplicity, and intentional living, we develop a healthy relationship with food, things, and pleasure.
“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. I will not be dominated by anything.” — 1 Corinthians 6:12 (ESV)
A Short Prayer
Lord, help me not to be ruled by cravings, but by Your Spirit. Teach me to practice temperance and to find joy in moderation. May I seek comfort not in food or things, but in You alone. Satisfy the hunger of my soul with Your love and truth. Amen.
