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Never begin or finish a meal without prayer.
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It’s better to eat more often but in small amounts than to wait for the hour prescribed in the Church’s typikon and then overindulge.
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During your meal, say the prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner,” and you won’t overindulge.
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Consider that our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ is sitting beside you at the table and that you receive everything from His hands.
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Try not to engage in idle talk while eating.
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As you eat, let the Lord’s saying be ever before you: Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger (Lk. 6:25).
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You should eat only so much that after the meal you desire to pray.
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During your meal, think about how many people lack their daily bread and pray for them.
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Before you begin to eat, consider how much you will take—then you won’t overindulge if you adhere to your plan.
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You may eat to satiety, but it’s better to rise from the table having taken slightly less, so that you feel light.
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Be sure to share the most tasty and delectable foods with others, or give them to your neighbor for the glory of God, and the Lord will satisfy you.
Excerpts from the book, My First Confession (Moя Первая Исповедь)
