Phone a Friend (2)

Partners on the Path - God did not create us to live a solitary existence. God created us for community: with Him and with others. He knows that life will be difficult at times and He has instilled in us this desire for relationships.

I often recognize when someone has been put in my path who can relate to something I am experiencing at this moment in time. I also know when God is using me to touch someone else in this same fashion. I love a one-liner I read in The Purpose Driven Life, "God never wastes a hurt." Do you find this to be true too? Knowing this, trust that the accountability partner you have chosen has been provided by God's grace and use her in the following manner:

• As you share with each other, allow her life experiences to speak to you
• Be honest with her about your struggles - if food is a stronghold in your life, tell her
• Allow her to hold you accountable and give her permission to check-in with you regularly
• Pray with your accountability partner. Then also pray for her when you are not together, she will be praying for you too

If you are anything like me, you will soon treasure this unique and healing relationship. Writing as one who was a "loner" for years, God has blessed me with many friends and people who genuinely care. He will do this for you too.

Scripture encouragement for today is from 2 Chronicles 20:17 "You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid: do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you."

Grace 'n Grins,
Judy

Phone a Friend

Reach Out - As everyday people struggling with everyday problems we could use some everyday people to walk with us. In a 12-step program this person would be called a sponsor or an accountability partner. Both are good things to explore; I have both. For today let's concentrate on an accountability partner - for this is a two way relationship - we give and we take.

Here are a three points to ponder when looking for such a partner:

• Companionship on the trip - This partner will be walking with us as we maneuver our way through life. Look for someone you can feel safe with, someone who values confidentiality as much as you.
  
• Compassionate listener - We all need someone to hear us out, someone who will let us speak and then share their experiences with us.
• Comfortable prayer - Valuable accountability partners are those with whom you can pray at any time.

More tomorrow on this topic.

Scripture encouragement for today is from Proverbs 15:23 "A man finds joy in giving an apt reply -- and how good is a timely word."

Grace 'n Grins,
Judy

Tools for staying on track

Accountability Partner - We all need friends, and who better to help us through a rough patch of dieting than a partner. Pair up with someone you respect and someone who cares for you. It might be even more helpful if you find someone to make this trip with you, someone who also struggles with food issues.

Always remember to laugh a little: I heard someone say, "Inside me there's a thin person struggling to get out, but I can usually sedate her with four or five cupcakes.

Plan your day: What is your menu for success? Keep a diary or journal to record for thoughts and actions and your menu for today.

Food for thought (pardon the pun): Author Frank Tyger observed, "In every triumph, there is a lot of try."