AUGUST 22
scripture reading: Philippians 3:17–21

Hymn to Bellygod

O for a thousand tongues to taste The savor and delight;
Of eating fruit forbidden me, My god says it’s alright.

Though some will think my actions strange, Call my religion odd;
I will not blush to bow my knee And worship Bellygod.

He validates my appetites And never tells me “No.”
He gives me everything I want That’s why I love him so.

At times I get a glimpse of what This worship does to me:
I slurp and burp and gorge myself To praise my deity.

A wise man warned me: “O take care, This god that you are craving.
He is a demon in disguise, Incapable of saving.”

But I’ll not listen to such talk, I’m settled in my choice.
The god I want is in my gut I’ll hear no other voice.

This Bellygod who dwells within Is very good to me;

He only makes just one demand: My life and liberty.

Perhaps you’ve noticed what is clear And very plain to see;
The worship giv’n to Bellygod Is really given to me!

That Jones shall worship the god within him turns out ultimately to mean that Jones shall worship Jones. — G. K. Chesterton

point to ponder • Are your appetites and desires controlling you, or are you controlling them?

prayer focus • For God to reveal any appetite not under his control.