Encouraging Words

Tuesday Plans - When I woke up this morning I had a plan in place for today. This plan is not set in stone, as life happens and sometimes I need to be flexible, but I do have a plan. It is very important to me as I work my way out of my eating stronghold, that I be prepared. This plan provides some very important things for me.

1. Peace - knowledge that I don't have to plan a meal at the last minute
   
2. Freedom - from worry and doubt about my ability to stick with wise eating
   
3. Clear Vision - I am beginning to recognize my triggers
   

It is like following a road map. I know where I am today and I can see my destination. The plan or menu that I provide for myself every week is the route I am taking to get from here to there while always being prepared for the inevitable detour.

Scripture encouragement for today is from Romans 12:2 (NIV) "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- His good, pleasing and perfect will."

Grace 'n Grins,
Judy

More Tools for staying on track

Have a plan - Do you have a plan to get through today? As a member of an eating disorder support group I have learned that I have a heart ailment; my heart was not always aligned with God's. I was allowing the problems of this world to dictate my eating habits. I am learning that I am worthy, not because of who I am, but because of whose I am. Now I believe this and can see God working on my heart and in my heart. I recognize that I cannot do this automatically, I need a plan. God is with me, but He isn't going to do it all for me. Here is how my plan works:

P ray everyday. I begin the day asking for strength and peace and courage
L ist my menu for the day. I have to take time to map out my meal plan
A llow time to exercise; walk and garden, clean house, it all counts as exercise
N urture my spiritual life. I start my day seeking God's Word for me in the Bible

Share your PLAN with this community.

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."