I've Been Here Before

Success comes and goes - I am finding myself in a familiar place. I have worked for months to shed some weight, I have had my ups and my downs and now, finally, it is beginning to show. I am getting to the place where it is obvious that something is different. Some can't determine if it is the summer tan I am sporting or the new hairdo, but something is different.

Those who do recognize that I have lost weight don't see the other change in me, the one that is actually responsible for the transformation. The real change for me is on the inside as I battle this food stronghold.

I also recognize that this is my new life style. I have to continue this battle each day. For me, it is the 'thorn in my side', as Paul put it. I have been here before. I have lost weight and felt good, only to put it all back on again. This time though I am going to practice different maintenance habits. I know I must be diligent when it comes to keeping my head and my heart in a good place. Here are three ways I am going to do this:

1. Continue to learn how to trade my food stronghold for a dependence on Jesus - praying daily for help and guidance
   
2. Plan my day by preparing a menu in advance using this as one tool that can be an effective deterrence to out of control eating
3. Remember that God lavishes His grace on me daily. If I slip up all I need do is acknowledge the problem, make an adjustment and then move on.

Notice this plan is my CPR for keeping my heart in the right place.

Scripture encouragement for today is from Ephesians 6:10-11 (NIV) Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

Grace 'n Grins,
Judy