Gluttony is more than just eating too much. Understanding the spirit of gluttony in the Bible helps us see its deeper implications, particularly in how it affects our relationship with God.

Gluttony is a force that dulls your senses, clouds your judgment, and keeps you bound in cycles of shame and self-indulgence.

But what does it actually say about the spirit of gluttony in the Bible? And how can you overcome it if it has taken root in your life?

Let’s explore what gluttony really is, where it shows up in scripture, and how to find freedom through God’s truth.

In examining the spirit of gluttony in the Bible, it reminds us to maintain balance and moderation in our lives.

What Is the Spirit of Gluttony?

Gluttony in the Bible is often tied to overindulgence, especially when food becomes a substitute for trust in God.
It is not about the quantity alone, but about who or what we turn to for comfort, reward, or escape. Recognizing the spirit of gluttony in the Bible is the first step towards liberation, enabling us to pursue a deeper spiritual life.

Biblical Warning:

“Do not mix with winebibbers, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty.” - Proverbs 23:20–21

Gluttony dulls discernment, weakens self-control, and often points to a deeper spiritual hunger that food cannot satisfy.

Is Gluttony a Spirit?

The Bible teaches that certain patterns of sin, such as fear, pride, or lust, can operate as Spiritual strongholds.
The “spirit of gluttony” refers to a recurring temptation or compulsive behavior that overrides a person’s will.

Paul warned:

“Their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.”- Philippians 3:19

When the stomach becomes your master, your spirit becomes dull and over time, can become unresponsive to God.

Signs of the Spirit of Gluttony

Here are 5 signs of the spirit of gluttony:

  • Eating when you are not hungry consistently
  • Using food to cope with emotions
  • Hiding or feeling ashamed about your eating habits
  • Feeling powerless to stop, even with knowledge
  • Turning to food first instead of prayer or truth

These behaviors often point to emotional or spiritual hunger beneath the surface.

Go Deeper: How Do I Break the Spirit of Gluttony?

What Does the Bible Say About Overcoming Gluttony?

Scripture offers a path to freedom through:

1. Repentance

“Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us.” (Hebrews 12:1)

Gluttony weighs you down. Repentance brings release because it is a change of heart and mind, coming into agreement with God's word that results in a change of direction.

2. Renewed Mind

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” - Romans 12:2

Breaking the spirit of gluttony starts in your thinking.

3. Fruit of the Spirit

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, self-control.” - Galatians 5:22–23

Self-control is not just willpower. It is the Spirit’s power working in you.

Real Talk: Gluttony Is a Spiritual Battle

Food is a gift. But it becomes bondage when we worship it with our choices.
The enemy uses gluttony to make God’s people weak, distracted, and discouraged.
But Jesus came to set captives free.

“If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36)

Want to Heal from the Spirit of Gluttony?

If this article spoke to you, you are not alone.
Thousands of women have found freedom through Take Back Your Temple, a faith-based program for emotional and spiritual healing from food bondage.

Learn more: takebackyourtemple.com/program2

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gluttony mentioned in the Bible?

Yes. Gluttony is mentioned several times, including Proverbs 23:20–21, Deuteronomy 21:20, and Philippians 3:19.

Is gluttony a sin or a spirit?

It can be both. While the behavior is sinful, it may operate as a Spiritual stronghold when it becomes compulsive or entrenched.

What causes the spirit of gluttony?

Often, it stems from emotional pain, trauma, or a pattern of turning to food instead of God. The root is spiritual misalignment and is "fed" by dependance on brain-hijacking foods (sugary or highly processed foods) to numb or escape life challenges.

How can I overcome the spirit of gluttony?

By repenting, renewing your mind with scripture, and allowing the Holy Spirit to develop self-control in your life. Joining a support system helps too.
About the Author

Kimberly Taylor

Kimberly Taylor is an author and life coach with a heart to help others struggling with emotional eating and weight loss. Once 240 pounds and a size 22, she can testify of God’s goodness and healing power to overcome. She lost 85 pounds as a result of implementing techniques to overcome emotional eating and binge eating disorder.

Kim is the developer of "The Take Back Your Temple Program," which teaches God's people how to overcome emotional eating and reach a healthy weight. She is also the author of the books "The Weight Loss Scriptures," "The Anxiety Relief Scriptures," "The Weight Loss Prayers," and many more.

Kim has been featured in Prevention Magazine, Charisma Magazine and on CBN’s 'The 700 Club' television program.