Food plays such a central role in our lives—not just for sustenance but for culture, connection, and celebration. Yet, with everything from fad diets to 30-second TikToks telling us what’s "right" to eat, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the mixed messages about food.
But what if we simplified things and looked to scripture?
What if we asked, What would Jesus eat?
For Urban Youth Leaders and Young Adults seeking inspiration on personal health and habits, drawing lessons from scripture can offer insightful guidance grounded in faith, simplicity, and purpose.
What Does the Bible Say About Food?
The Bible might not name-drop kale smoothies or pass judgment on pineapple pizza, but it does provide timeless wisdom on food and healthy habits. For starters, it’s clear that food was never merely functional in scripture. Meals were meant to nourish, to bring people together, and to honor God’s creation.
Jesus Himself frequently engaged in meals to teach, connect, and demonstrate abundance and gratitude.
1. Jesus Modeled Simple Nutrition
Instead of fast-food burgers or triple-shot lattes, Jesus likely ate a diet rooted in the staples of his time. Think whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and olive oil. His meals reflected a kind of whole-food simplicity that modern nutritionists often praise today.
🌾 Lesson: Focus on whole, simple, and unprocessed foods.
2. Feasting AND Fasting
Throughout the Bible, we see both feasting and fasting as spiritual practices. Jesus fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4), while celebratory feasts like the Passover highlighted gratitude and remembrance. There's a balance between moments of self-discipline and moments of celebration.
🍇 Lesson: Balance is key. Health isn’t about constant restriction or indulgence but finding rhythm and mindfulness in your choices.
3. Feeding Others
From feeding the 5,000 to breaking bread with His disciples, Jesus used food as a tool for service, connection, and compassion (John 6).
🤝 Lesson: Food is about community and care. Whether it’s sitting down with your family or sharing meals with those in need, it transcends utility and builds connection.
5 Practical Food Habits Inspired by Scripture
For today’s urban youth leaders and young adults, here’s how to translate lessons from scripture into realistic, healthy habits in the modern age!
1. Cultivate a Spirit of Gratitude for Food
Before every meal, Jesus gave thanks. Pausing to show gratitude reminds us that our food is a gift, whether it’s homemade or Uber Eats.
Try This: Take a moment before eating to thank God for your meal, the hands that prepared it, and the nourishment it brings.
2. Make Room for Whole Foods
Jesus’ diet was what we’d today call “clean”—fruits like figs, apples, and dates; vegetables; fish like tilapia; and hearty grains like barley.
Try This: Build meals with a focus on whole foods. Next time you cook, swap refined carbs for alternatives like whole wheat, use fresh produce, or try cooking fish for a protein-packed, Jesus-approved meal.
3. Don’t Demonize Food Groups (Jesus Didn't)
Bread was symbolic and constant in Jesus’ ministry; wine was present in celebrations; and honey was referred to as a delight. Instead of cutting out food groups, the Bible shows us that all foods can have a role.
Try This: Instead of subscribing to elimination diets, aim for moderation and variety. And yes, you can have carbs!
4. Rest, Fast, and Find Your Balance
It wasn’t all about feasting for Jesus. Moments of rest and fasting brought clarity and renewal.
Try This: Experiment with having digital “food rests” by cooking or eating without distractions (no phones, no scrolling). Or try a short period of fasting to reflect on your relationship with food and discipline.
5. Use Food as a Tool for Connection
Real spiritual (and physical) growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Share meals, host gatherings, and make food an opportunity for relationship-building.
Try This: Host a dinner at your youth group or with friends. Use it as a time to connect over faith and enjoy good food together.
Food for the Body and Soul
When we look at what Jesus ate and how He approached food, it’s clear that health isn’t just about physical well-being. It’s about gratitude, balance, and building a sense of community. The meals you feed your body also feed your spirit and relationships.
And if navigating all this feels overwhelming? You’re not alone. Health is a lifelong process, one rooted in small, intentional choices every day.
Want help to make healthier lifestyle shifts or connect deeper with your youth groups? Book a session with our program for tailored guidance on faith-based living and leadership!
What would Jesus eat? The real call is to answer why He ate the way He did and to live similarly—with purpose, gratitude, and a joyful heart. So, next time you're deciding what to have for dinner, maybe ask yourself: What would Jesus do? 🙏🏽
Now go and enjoy some delicious and nourishing food with gratitude and purpose!