25 Bible Verses About Gluttony (With Commentary)

Struggling with the urge to overindulge can feel like a lonely battle. Gluttony, more than just overeating, is warned against throughout Scripture as a serious spiritual issue. Our blog sheds light on biblical wisdom that teaches us to restrain such appetites and pursue a healthier path.

Dive in for guidance and hope—let’s get started!

Warnings Against Gluttony

Proverbs 23:20-21

"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."

Stay away from heavy drinkers and massive eaters of meat, Proverbs 23:20 warns. These habits lead to poverty—sleeping under a blanket of rags is what’s in store for those who overindulge.

Keep this in mind; gluttony can tear down more than just your health—it breaks your bank too. Make smart choices to avoid falling into this trap that snares so many.

Proverbs 28:7

"A discerning son heeds instruction, but a companion of gluttons disgraces his father."

Proverbs 28:7 teaches us that smart kids follow the law. Hanging out with people who eat too much can embarrass your family. It’s important to show you understand by saying no to too much food and yes to self-control.

This Bible verse warns us about being friends with those who care only about eating.

Philippians 3:19

"Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things."

Philippians 3:19 pulls no punches when it talks about gluttony. It warns that some people worship their own appetites. Their end is destruction because they make their belly their god and ignore eternal things.

Gluttony takes over, pushing spiritual worship aside. This verse makes it clear—when cravings become your master, you’re headed down a dangerous path.

The Bible here isn’t just talking about loving food; it’s deeper than that. It points out the problem with letting earthly desires rule us. Crushing that idolatry of the stomach means focusing on Christ Jesus and His promise of eternal life instead of temporary satisfaction from meals.

Your body is God’s temple, treat it with care by not surrendering to sinful hunger pangs.

Deuteronomy 21:20

"They shall say to the elders, 'This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a glutton and a drunkard.'"

Deuteronomy 21:20 warns us clearly about the dangers of overeating. It tells a story of parents speaking against a son who is stubborn, rebellious, and a glutton. This boy’s bad habits show disrespect to both God and his family.

The Bible uses strong words here, calling out gluttony as more than just eating too much—it’s acting in rebellion.

The verse serves as a stern reminder that gluttony isn’t something to take lightly; it can lead to ruin. Parents in this passage declare their child’s excessive greed for food—a serious warning for everyone.

Gluttony isn’t just harmful; it can destroy lives and bring on poverty. We see how important self-control is through these ancient but still relevant words.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10

"Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God."

In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul warns that those who live a life of excess, including gluttonous eaters, will not inherit the kingdom of God. He groups gluttony with other serious sins like idolatry and greed.

This passage teaches us the importance of self-discipline. It shows us that overeating is not just harmful to our bodies but also to our spiritual lives.

This message from Paul urges believers to live in a way that honors God. Keeping control over our appetites reflects the fruit of the Spirit—patience and self-control. The Bible’s teachings make it clear: indulging too much in food can lead us away from living a life that pleases our Lord Jesus Christ.

The Consequences of Gluttony

Proverbs 23:2

"And put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony."

Proverbs 23:2 sends a powerful message about the dangers of overeating. It warns us that loving food too much can lead to big problems, like being poor and losing control over our lives.

We need to watch how much we eat and drink so we don’t hurt ourselves by going overboard. Keeping our eating in check is part of being wise and taking good care of what God has given us.

Eating just enough is better than eating too much and struggling later on.

Proverbs 25:16

"If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit."

Eating too much honey can make you sick, and Proverbs 25:16 gives a clear warning. If you find something sweet, don’t overdo it or you’ll feel ill later. This verse is about more than just food—it tells us not to go overboard in any area of life.

Overindulgence leads to discomfort, whether we’re talking about eating or drinking.

The Bible groups gluttony with other serious sins like drunkenness. It’s a reminder that too much of anything isn’t good for us. Keep this in mind next time you’re tempted to overindulge; your body and spirit will thank you for showing restraint and respecting the limits set by God’s wisdom.

Proverbs 25:27

"It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to seek one's own honor."

Eating too much honey is not good. Neither is seeking glory after glory. This lesson from Proverbs 25:27 speaks volumes about excess. Just as honey can be sweet and tempting, so can the pursuit of personal achievements and recognition.

But overindulging in anything, whether food or fame, leads to negative outcomes.

It’s a call for moderation in all things—a principle echoed throughout scripture and relevant to every aspect of life, including our eating habits. It warns us that an endless appetite for more will only end in poverty and slumber—things nobody desires.

Take this as guidance towards self-control and a balanced lifestyle where neither food nor pride takes the upper hand.

Luke 21:34

"Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap."

Luke 21:34 hits hard against gluttony and having too much fun. It tells us to stay alert, so our hearts don’t get weighed down with overeating, drinking, or life’s worries. Be watchful! The verse is a clear warning sign: don’t let the good times make you forget what’s truly important.

We must guard ourselves from temptations that can sneak up and take control. This means staying sharp and keeping our focus on things that last forever—not just on the food and drink that disappear.

Living right isn’t always easy; we face many distractions every day. Yet, Luke reminds us to keep our eyes open for spiritual danger zones like gluttony—it isn’t just about eating too much but letting it rule your heart.

Take charge of your cravings; don’t let them take charge of you! This way, you’ll be ready for anything, strong in spirit, free from the heavy chains of excess—just as God intends for us all.

Proverbs 21:17

"He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich."

Loving pleasure too much can lead to trouble. Proverbs 21:17 tells us that those who chase after fun and fancy things might end up with empty pockets. We learn a serious lesson here—spending all your time on good food, wine, or parties could make you poor.

It’s like a warning sign flashing bright, telling us not to get lost in seeking only what feels good.

This bit of wisdom isn’t just about money; it’s about self-control too. Think twice before you join others who care more for feasting than for their future. They may find themselves lacking – not just in cash but in character and discipline as well.

This verse is an old piece of advice that still speaks volumes today, reminding us to balance joy with responsibility.

Gluttony and Self-Control

Galatians 5:22-23

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."

Self-control stands out among the fruit of the Spirit. It’s key in fighting gluttony. Love, joy, peace—these too are part of that fruit. They guide us away from overindulgence and toward a more disciplined life.

Living by the Spirit means you avoid things like gluttony. Those who indulge won’t see God’s kingdom. Instead, fill your life with virtues like kindness and patience to combat excess eating.

1 Corinthians 9:27

"No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."

Paul talks about self-discipline in 1 Corinthians 9:27. He compares life to a race where you need strong discipline. Just like athletes train hard and give up many things, Paul says we must do the same with our desires.

We can’t just do what feels good; we have to be tough on ourselves.

He teaches us that having control over our bodies is like being an athlete who doesn’t get disqualified from a race. Paul knows this isn’t easy, so he tells us to live by sacrifice and not by what we want all the time.

This verse challenges us to look at how we handle our cravings and work on saying no when we need to for God’s glory.

2 Peter 1:5-6

"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness."

God hands us the tools to live like Jesus, yet it’s on us to work them into our lives. 2 Peter 1:5-6 urges adding goodness, knowledge, self-control and perseverance to our faith. It’s like a spiritual workout—building up endurance against temptations such as gluttony.

Self-control is key; we can’t let food become an idol in place of God’s love.

A strong faith grows when we push past comfort zones and control those cravings that lead away from righteousness. The verse challenges believers to balance their desires with discipline—a true test revealing how deeply one treasures their relationship with the Savior.

This isn’t just about avoiding too much food but being mindful of how each choice reflects one’s commitment to living under God’s grace.

Proverbs 23:3

"Do not crave his delicacies, for that food is deceptive."

Beware of the temptation to join those who drink too much wine and stuff themselves with meat. Proverbs 23:3 sends out a clear warning—gluttonous habits can lead you down a path to loss and regret.

Keep your desires in check, stay alert, and choose your company wisely.

This verse isn’t just about food; it’s about self-control in all areas of life. Don’t get caught up with people who have lost their way through overindulgence. Stick to moderation, and guard against the urge to give in to every craving that comes along.

Your choices shape your future, so make them count!

Titus 1:12

"One of Crete's own prophets has said it: 'Cretans are always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons.'"

Titus 1:12 points out a tough truth about the people of Crete. The verse quotes a Cretan poet who called his own folks “always liars, evil brutes, lazy gluttons.” This strong language in the Bible shows how serious gluttony is.

It’s grouped with lying and cruelty—big problems that can wreck lives.

The words from Titus teach us to watch our own behavior. Gluttony isn’t just overeating; it’s letting food control us. We’re called to live differently—to be self-controlled and honest.

This means saying no to too much food and yes to healthier choices that honor God with our bodies.

Temperance and Moderation

1 Corinthians 10:31

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

Whatever you do, eat or drink, do it all for God’s glory. This is the message of 1 Corinthians 10:31. It tells us that our actions, even eating, should honor God. This verse speaks against gluttony by reminding us to consider how our habits affect our spiritual life.

Living a life that reflects God’s values includes being mindful about overeating and indulgence. Gluttony can become idolatry when it takes priority in our lives. We are called to find fulfillment not in food but in the mercies of God, serving as a compass for temperance and moderation.

Romans 13:13-14

"Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature."

Let’s live honorably, not in wild parties or drunkenness. No more room for gluttony and overeating meat. Romans 13:13-14 tells us to walk away from these temptations. It’s like putting on new clothes; we dress ourselves with Jesus Christ instead of following our bad desires.

Imagine giving up envy and greed as easily as changing shirts. These verses challenge us to exchange selfish cravings for a life filled with light and goodness. We embrace self-control, leaving idolatry and excess behind.

Proverbs 31:4-5

"It is not for kings, O Lemuel—not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights."

Proverbs 31:4-5 sends a strong message to leaders and those in authority. It points out that kings and officials should steer clear of drunkenness and overindulgence. Leaders must remain sober and alert, making wise decisions without the fog of gluttony clouding their judgment.

Excessive drinking can lead rulers to forget what is right, jeopardizing justice for all.

The Bible places high value on self-control, especially for people with power. They have an impact on many lives; therefore, indulging too much can have far-reaching consequences. The passage cautions them against losing sight of their responsibilities by giving in to excesses such as gluttony or heavy drinking.

1 Peter 4:7

"The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray."

Stay alert and keep a clear mind for prayer. 1 Peter 4:7 tells us that since everything will soon come to an end, we should be serious and watchful in our prayers. It’s like a coach blowing the whistle during a game—it reminds us to focus and not get distracted by less important things.

This verse isn’t about missing out on fun; it’s about priorities. Think of your life as balancing a plate full of responsibilities—gluttony can make that plate too heavy on one side.

Instead, 1 Peter 4:7 encourages balance, self-control, and living with eyes open to what really matters.

Ephesians 5:18

"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit."

Ephesians 5:18 tells us to avoid debauchery and drunkenness. These actions lead to a wasted life, far from God’s plan for us. The verse isn’t just about alcohol—it’s a warning against overdoing anything that takes control away from the Spirit.

Instead of filling up on food or drink, we’re called to be filled with the Spirit. This means letting God lead our lives and choices.

Living by this Scripture helps us show true wisdom and discernment. We turn away from gluttony and embrace spiritual discipline instead. It’s not just about avoiding guilt or shame; it’s about choosing a path of moderation where the Holy Spirit can work within us.

Seeking Fulfillment in God

Matthew 5:6

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled."

Matthew 5:6 tells us to hunger and thirst for what’s right. It says fulfilling our lives with good deeds is better than eating too much food. This verse guides us away from the sin of gluttony.

Gluttony can be like worshiping an idol when we let food control us.

Let’s try filling up on God’s words, not just snacks and meals. Dive into the Bible instead of another bag of chips. The path to righteousness leads to true satisfaction, way beyond what a full belly offers.

Seeking God helps beat gluttony, bringing peace that lasts longer than any feast could.

Psalm 107:9

"For he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things."

Psalm 107:9 tells us God fills the hungry soul with good things. It speaks to those who crave more than just food and seek spiritual fulfillment. This verse shows that true contentment comes from within, from a longing for Christ’s grace.

Imagine your innermost desires being quenched not by worldly goods but by God’s love and mercy.

To be full doesn’t always mean having our bellies stuffed. It means finding what truly satisfies our spirits. In a world where we are tempted to fill up on physical pleasures, Psalm 107:9 invites us to experience the deeper satisfaction of God’s goodness, reminding our hearts that He is the source of all that truly nourishes us.

John 6:35

"Then Jesus declared, 'I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.'"

Jesus stands as the answer to our deepest needs in John 6:35. He calls himself “the bread of life,” promising that no one who comes to him will ever go hungry and no one who believes in him will ever be thirsty.

This powerful message strikes at the heart of gluttony, pointing us toward a lasting spiritual satisfaction that outdoes any physical appetite.

Focusing on Jesus can lead us away from overindulgence and towards a fulfilled life. John 6:35 isn’t just about food—it’s about finding true contentment in faith. By turning to Jesus for fulfillment, we move beyond mere temporary cravings and step into an enduring peace that comes from spiritual nourishment.

Isaiah 55:2

"Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare."

Isaiah 55:2 hits hard at our chase for things that don’t last. It asks us why we waste cash on what doesn’t fill us up inside. This verse isn’t just about food—it’s a call to feed our souls with God’s word, not just stuff our faces with bread.

The Bible tells us to listen close and eat what’s truly good so we can live rich spiritual lives.

The message is crystal clear—don’t get caught in the trap of gluttony and overindulgence. Isaiah wants us to find real joy and contentment by getting close to God, not by overfilling our plates or chasing after things we don’t need.

True satisfaction comes from being spiritually nourished, finding assurance in God’s grace rather than the next snack or shopping spree.

Matthew 6:25-26

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"

Matthew 6:25-26 tells us not to worry about what we’ll eat or drink. It reminds us that life is more than food. Look at the birds—they don’t plant crops or harvest them, yet they always have enough because God feeds them.

Aren’t we even more valuable to Him? This passage urges us to trust in God’s provision for our needs and not be caught up in gluttony or greed.

God wants us to seek His kingdom first, trusting He will take care of our physical needs. We should focus on spiritual growth rather than fretting over material things. These verses call for faith over worry, teaching us that fulfillment comes from God, not just from the food on our table.

Conclusion

Gluttony isn’t just about food; it’s deeper. It’s choosing self over control and moderation. The Bible speaks loud — gluttony leads to loss, but self-control brings balance. We learn, food is good, yet not a master.

Seek fulfillment in more than what’s on the plate; look up for true nourishment.

FAQs

1. What does the Bible say about gluttony?

The Bible mentions gluttony as one of the seven deadly sins; it talks about consuming too much food or drink and warns against letting your passions control you, just like Esau did when he traded his birthright for a meal.

2. Are there any stories in the Bible that show gluttony is wrong?

Yes, one story is about Jacob and Esau. Esau was very hungry and let his hunger control him. He gave away something very special to him for just some bread and stew.

3. How can I learn from the Bible to avoid being greedy or wanting too much like in Sodom?

The Bible teaches us through verses that we should not be covetousness or idolaters, meaning we shouldn’t want things too much or make anything more important than God.

4. Does baptism have anything to do with giving up bad habits like overeating?

When people get baptized, they are choosing to live a new life following God’s ways. This includes asking for God’s mercy to help leave behind bad habits like gluttony and live by The Fruit of The Spirit instead.

5. Who in the New Testament teaches us how not to be gluttonous?

People like John the Baptist showed us a simple way of living without focusing on food, praying often helps our hearts focus on heaven instead of earth where things such as healing from bad behaviors can happen by using Jesus’ name.