What's Different This Time...

A few weeks ago I posted on how, in my struggle with my weight, the role of food in my life, and my solution attempts, I've been functionally Godless. I'd recognize that God was the one bringing convinction, but when I'd seek to do something about it, I would proceed in my own strength and wisdom.

For those of you who are wondering why the food we eat has anything to do with God or spirituality, let me encourage you to keep reading.

First of all, one of the things God impressed on me a few weeks back was that He needed to play the central role this time. I've been asking Him to show me how to do that, and what resources I should use. I've been so encouraged and filled with hope because He has and continues to do so.


First of all, I'm using my cravings as a prompt to pray. Praying about our struggles seems like a no-brainer, right? But I never did that when it came to this issue! Now, when I really want to snack on what I'm craving instead of practicing restraint or choosing something beneficial for my body, I pray.

As I've put myself out there and shared, I've had others who struggle with the same thing reach out to me. I never had that before. New friendships are being born and having their partnership and accountability has fueled me.

I found an excellent book to read during my quiet time with the Lord each morning. MADE TO CRAVE: SATISFYING YOUR DEEPEST DESIRE WITH GOD, NOT FOOD by Lysa TerKeurst. Her writing is super honest, funny, and theologically spot-on.

I am thankful for how God has been leading Pete and I to make healthier food source choices in the last few years. While we still have much room for improvement, that part of the equation isn't the biggest issue. My attitude towards food and lack of exercise get top billing. This book has been so very helpful in showing me the deeper, spiritual issues at work in my heart.

My hubby agreed to do the Couch to 5k program with me for the next 9 weeks. It's free, the schedule can be found easily online, and combines walking and running--slowly but steadily increasing your ability to run 3 miles.

Running scares me. Years ago I was super athletic. Now, my unused muscles are protesting and the hills are alive with the sound of groaning. But I'm doing it! Pete is faithfully kicking me out of bed (figuratively speaking, of course) at 5:30am three mornings a week, and I'm lapping my neighborhood in the pitch black dark--my headlamp keeping me from slipping on any ice.

A few quotes from Lysa's book.

"Is it possible we love and rely on food more than we love and rely on God?" ..."I had to get honest enough to admit it: I relied on food more than I relied on God. I craved food more than I craved God. Food was my comfort. Food was my reward. Food was my joy. Food was what I turned to in times of stress, sadness, and even in times of happiness."

"Does God really care about our food?" ..."Yes, I think He does."..."God never intended for us to want anything more than we want Him. Just the slightest glimpse into His Word proves that. Look at what the Bible says about God's chosen people, the Israelites, when they wanted food more than they wanted God: 'They willfully put God to the test by demanding the food they craved' (Psalm 78:18). Yikes."

"...a funny truth to share about the healthy eating plan I chose. Basically, I eat what a wild animal eats--meat and things that grow naturally from the earth. Only I cook my food and use manners. I was immediately encouraged by the possibilities of this new eating plan because I have yet to see an overweight animal in the wild lamenting over excess cellulite."

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Thanks for all of you who have expressed that you are praying for me in this area. I truly appreciate it.