I'm sorry I haven't posted lately; but I have been pretty busy with a few things. The more significant thing is that I have decided to make a major change in my life with better food and exercise plans. I have wished for it, wanted to do it, but never really felt the "now" moment until just last week. Part of that is because my Bible study group has been reading through James, and we will finish that study this Friday.
Our leader and host, Phil, is an elder in my church. He's had a lot of theological education, and came from a musical background in his early Christian years. Like me, he's in his mid to late 50's now, and his wife Gail makes the BEST coffee ever! Aside from alla that, he is a really great Bible study leader. He's got patience, knows that it's not just the Bible study that we humans need when we come, and just keeps us on task in the friendliest ways anyone can do, even with contentious and volatile personalities.
He pointed out that James is a book that declares that the only way any individual can KNOW that they are saved, is by how obedient they are in performing works equal to their faith. One of the verses most people are aware of (at least in part) isJas 2:26 The body without the spirit is dead. In the same way, faith without good works is dead.
Phil was careful and deliberate in pointing out all along that this is NOT how we decide how anyone else's salvation is doing. It's only for a self measure, and there are more than one verses in James that agree with that. But here is one for handy reference: Jas 4:12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge. He is the One who is able to save life or destroy it. But who are you to judge your neighbor?
All through the study, the one thing that I kept thinking of is how I just don't seem able to get "enough faith" to deal with has been my bad eating habits. In my adult years (35 to be precise), I have gone from overweight, to Obese Grade 2, to overweight, to Obese Grade 2, to overweight, to Morbidly Obese Grade 3, to overweight, then back to Morbidly Obese Grade 3, then overweight, back to Morbidly Obese Grade 3, overweight and now back at Morbidly Obese Grade 3. [I used this site to make these determinations] That's embarrassing to admit, but there I am. Being unemployed over the winter and not finding much to try and apply for put in me in a kind of lassitude that I won't say was depression, but I wasn't very motivated to try to make a change as I noticed my larger clothing getting snug.
I have a few friends who have gone through the lap band surgeries, and recent research seem to agree that it is the most dependable means of losing weight after routine gluttony (I am going to be blunt here, because I am talking about the Morbidly Obese, and I haven't heard of many causes for that other than extreme overeating). The article I read earlier this week said that 95% of persons who lose a lot of weight, will regain it all and some more (like I did).
However, there are that 5% out there! I also saw that in my study of James along with other scriptures, that I can find whatever inspiration, motivation or courage I need to achieve this goal. I just haven't tapped into it. I always did it in my own ways, and since I have fibromyalgia bundled with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (don't ask - icky), I lost dramatic amounts of weight due to illness, and then followed up with a sensible food exchange diet with more activity to help shuck the weight before. I didn't realize that what I called my "ideal" weight was actually still overweight for my height and bone size. So, I never really tried to get there.
Another source of encouragement for me is that I tried to quit smoking at least seven times that I can remember. Once was even for over a year, before I managed to do it for the last time on May 28th, 2001. When I did it, I knew it was the last time, - AND I lost weight the year after I quit, too! There was an inner serenity about the whole thing that I'd never had before. I have that same core of serenity for the job ahead to lose the weight and get more fit this time. I just know this is going to be the last time.
I don't want to go into real details here on how I'm doing it, cause that's really boring for some of us who read blogs (I get bored with them, don't you?). I'll answer any questions via personal messaging though if you are interested. The big thing is that I have been fasting and praying this week, and that's why I haven't posted on my site like I usually do. Please be patient, and I will be back to my usual blogs in about a week.
When I find something helpful or interesting, I will still post it like I did this wonderful tip on using ginger capsules to fend off nausea!
I am really interested in finding out from all of you the answer to this question: What have you ever done to overcome a personal stumbling block, and you felt that inner "this will work this time" thing I am calling serenity? If you want to blog it rather than leave a comment, please leave me a link!
I really want to comment on this, but it's going to take some thinking and some time, so I may write a blog. Thanks for such a thought provoking post!
Thanks for sharing, I'm pretty stubborn and selfish so I fight with God on a regular basis.I always find that surrender is what brings me peace. I will keep you in my prayers.
I've had a few personal devils that I've had to exorcise, but they aren't something I'd prefer to name specifically. However, here's what I learned. Such fundamental behavior changes require a fundamental perspective change.
Weight is a common problem. Most people fail because deep down, the inner voice says "I should lose weight because ...(insert a list of a hundred valid reasons)."
The operative word is "should." To effect behavior changes, the should has to transform into "must." Only then does the tempting devil become a fearful one.
Sadly, there is no magic "must" formula. It differs from person to person. Some can just make that decision, for others it's the a turn of phrase like a child saying, "Billy told me fat people die young. Will you die before I'm grown up?"
The words are innocent, but the depth and person sharing them strike a commitment of "must" in the heart.
(The above is a real illustration)
I've defeated a few such devils. Each time, the "should" became a "must." I pray you a similar revelation and victory.
Good luck on all of that. I've always been lucky and had doctors hollering at me to gain. 6'2" 163, ugh! -Jason
@TheLoquaciousLady - OOOOOooo! I can't wait to read it! You always write the most interesting stuff =).
@echois23 - I thank you SOOO much for the prayers! I know that God wants me to learn some lessons on how my faith works to deliver me from my fleshly desires, but this has been a GREAT contest before. Just cause today looks doable doesn't mean tomorrow will be, so I honestly DO covet all the prayers anyone can toss up for me =).
@HumbleWalk - thanks SO much Brett. You're very right about the "should" needs to become "must". I know that not all of the things we get a victory on are for open display, too. Thanks so much for adding your thoughts for me, though.
@firemanjay988 - LOL, I have frequently never understood someone with your problem, until my son married his bride who cried because she couldn't gain 5 lbs before getting a cold or other illness that had her lose the weight. She was told that she couldn't fit into any bridal gown unless it was custom made unless she gained that 5 lbs and kept it on for the wedding. Thankfully, her mohter found a gown in size 2 that could be altered to her size 0, and it emphasized her lovely shoulders and her feminine curves. She was a breathtaking beauty on her wedding day!
As for you, I have no idea what to say to help you except pizza is great food!
@IMChurchmouse - Such is the cross I bear getting in trouble with doctors and all that. I see what my roommate goes through. He's 6'1" and probably 215 or so. He wants to get to the 190s but he likes food too much, even when he's good and he works out, he doesn't lose. -Jason
@firemanjay988 - OHHhhhh is that rock salt you're rubbing in that wound? *giggle*
Thanks for sharing this. I too have had my personal battles, but the peace I feel when surrendering these things to God is...amazing. It's hard to even describe. Even little things, like, I bite my nails. I bit my nails for years and years, but finally, I realized I could stop that nasty habit. I shouldn't hold back even the smallest things from God. Now I have pretty nails! That's something very simple and obviously there have been bigger things in my life, such as relationships, which have been hinderances. I recently fasted about a particular relationship and felt very clear answers. Once I did what I felt I should, I felt that peace. Very good for you :)
@NoPenniesHere - I think it's those seemingly insignificant victories that build us up for the larger ones. Even David had a bear and a lion to kill before he dealt with Goliath. Thanks for sharing that experience! I think with all of us giving our stories, we might be able to help someone who is afraid to trust and surrender.
You know what I have noticed time and time again. There's been times I have just said over and over to myself, "this is it, it is going to work this time" and it did. Looking back, I'd like to believe it has something to do with faith as small as a mustard seed.
@IMChurchmouse - I don't have time for that. I just ate an entire deep fried pizza and drank some microwaved milk chocolate. Then I jumped on the scale and lost a half pound! Haha. -Jason
@firemanjay988 - Your inner brat is having a really GOOD day, isn't he? LOL
I have three friends who have had the lap band surgeries. They all started out good and all of them lost weight. Two of them didn't follow the suggested eating plan and gained back all they lost and more. One lost all fo the weight and has kept it off for five years now.
@stixandstonz - Like you, I have seen a friend not succeed even with the lap band surgery. That was only one of the reasons I didn't opt for it. I have no insurance and can't afford it is another one. So, I realized that it isn't really the surgery that guarantees the success. It's that core of "I can do this" in spite of our fears and our weaknesses. But I need that faith that I can find whatever I need anytime that I need it, too. I honestly think I lacked it. I also had some form of "why can't I have good things?" attitude working on me once I lost the weight. This time, I'm more aware of what I need, and how to ask for it =).
Thanks for mentioning that!
@IMChurchmouse - Dave just played with your calculator site. He needs to be 6'7" to be a healthy weight so he is planning on figuring out a way to grow 6 inches rather than losing 30 pounds. Time for another entire cake covered with gravy. I am savage. -Jason
@firemanjay988 - no! Frosting is more calories than gravy!
I know just how your room mate feels....sigh....
I couldn't have said it better than Humble ^^ !
"Trust in your connect" is my companion for stumbling blocks. We all need to invest in ourselves. It makes the world a better place. I think it's suppose to be a stumble, so we "get" the lesson offered.
@Jaynebug - I like that thought, too. Cause I am a firm believer that God speaks to us through that "gut talk". Unfortunately, my belly tends to shout when my "gut" whispers during weight loss durations, lol!
Good luck with the life-changing. Way to go! We have been given the power to make such changes, but they are so hard to do. I'm currently not doing well with my weaknesses, to be honest. I'm looking to make some changes, too.
You're awesome!
I am so pleased for you!!! I am trying to get myself to that position where I quit saying I SHOULD lose weight and I say that I WILL lose weight!!! I managed to lose over 50 pounds a couple of years ago and I SWORE to myself that I would never gain it back..but guess what??? I am within 10 pounds of where I started the battle at. I go on that diet every night ....."Dear God please help me to eat sensibly and start exercising tomorrow...amen"...then by noon the next day I have fallen off the wagon again. Arrrrrrgh!!!! I am going out today and buy a new pedometer ( My last one disappeared....hubby was too efficient cleaning!!) and start aiming for my 10,000 steps a day again. I will go dust off the stationary bike in the basement and start hitting it again. I am tired of being out of breath after walking up a flight of stairs again. I will encourage you if you will encourage me!!!! In His Love, Ruth Ann
@ideaguy - I have had other areas of former weakness that I have seen put to rights, so that is the springboard I can use for my success. I had a great time talking to Phil and his wife last night just before others arrived for our Bible study, and it just confirmed the timing for me. I think that my new point is that: if I love God, I will obey Him. If I don't obey Him I am either unruly and rebellious, or I lack faith. If I am unruly, then humility will help me get over that - and I have been humbled. If I am lacking in faith, then James teaches me how to have it revived and how to help it grow (hint: use it).
I really like your artistry, btw! Thanks for stopping by and leaving this thoughtful comment.
@Redlegsix - Boy do I know how THAT all feels! (the meaning to do it, but not able to get into the "doing") I honestly find that if I don't begin with a fast, I CAN'T get the motivation. I found it out on accident with my periods of illness, and it really has been the method of success for me. It might be the thing to help you as well. I only stay away from solid food and drink only clear very diluted fluids. I have to go to three days at least before the cravings are finally overcome and I feel pretty good. Then I only allow myself soup the first day back. My Messianic Rabbi who comes from an Orthodox tradition (and has been taught all his life how to fast), insists that it must not be canned soups, but home made versions so that they are pure and without chemical enhancements. I like being fussed over, but in our busy lives, some of the high quality canned soups or carry out soups that are not creamed will do.
Justathot
cm
My you have a nice Memorial Day,Dodi!
I will pray for your goal and challenge. I was 40 when I had my first heart attack. I took that as an early warning system. I made the recommended changes and am 75. I have a shot at 76 unless God has a better idea.
I have since I was born again, that God has just been weeding out my sins. I don't understand why He helps me have success easily and then have some that I want to quit and have success. Here I am at 75 and He is bringing conviction and power to finally pull away from some persistent concerns.
I guess God is on His own time table even for dealing with weaknesses or growth.
Wish I had a good answer for you.
I see you are fasting and really depending on God. That is the only way to go as I see it.
Comments (26)
I really want to comment on this, but it's going to take some thinking and some time, so I may write a blog. Thanks for such a thought provoking post!
Thanks for sharing, I'm pretty stubborn and selfish so I fight with God on a regular basis.I always find that surrender is what brings me peace. I will keep you in my prayers.
I've had a few personal devils that I've had to exorcise, but they aren't something I'd prefer to name specifically.
However, here's what I learned. Such fundamental behavior changes require a fundamental perspective change.
Weight is a common problem. Most people fail because deep down, the inner voice says "I should lose weight because ...(insert a list of a hundred valid reasons)."
The operative word is "should." To effect behavior changes, the should has to transform into "must." Only then does the tempting devil become a fearful one.
Sadly, there is no magic "must" formula. It differs from person to person. Some can just make that decision, for others it's the a turn of phrase like a child saying, "Billy told me fat people die young. Will you die before I'm grown up?"
The words are innocent, but the depth and person sharing them strike a commitment of "must" in the heart.
(The above is a real illustration)
I've defeated a few such devils. Each time, the "should" became a "must." I pray you a similar revelation and victory.
Good luck on all of that. I've always been lucky and had doctors hollering at me to gain. 6'2" 163, ugh! -Jason
@TheLoquaciousLady - OOOOOooo! I can't wait to read it! You always write the most interesting stuff =).
@echois23 - I thank you SOOO much for the prayers! I know that God wants me to learn some lessons on how my faith works to deliver me from my fleshly desires, but this has been a GREAT contest before. Just cause today looks doable doesn't mean tomorrow will be, so I honestly DO covet all the prayers anyone can toss up for me =).
@HumbleWalk - thanks SO much Brett. You're very right about the "should" needs to become "must". I know that not all of the things we get a victory on are for open display, too. Thanks so much for adding your thoughts for me, though.
@firemanjay988 - LOL, I have frequently never understood someone with your problem, until my son married his bride who cried because she couldn't gain 5 lbs before getting a cold or other illness that had her lose the weight. She was told that she couldn't fit into any bridal gown unless it was custom made unless she gained that 5 lbs and kept it on for the wedding. Thankfully, her mohter found a gown in size 2 that could be altered to her size 0, and it emphasized her lovely shoulders and her feminine curves. She was a breathtaking beauty on her wedding day!
As for you, I have no idea what to say to help you except pizza is great food!
@IMChurchmouse - Such is the cross I bear getting in trouble with doctors and all that. I see what my roommate goes through. He's 6'1" and probably 215 or so. He wants to get to the 190s but he likes food too much, even when he's good and he works out, he doesn't lose. -Jason
@firemanjay988 - OHHhhhh is that rock salt you're rubbing in that wound? *giggle*
Thanks for sharing this. I too have had my personal battles, but the peace I feel when surrendering these things to God is...amazing. It's hard to even describe. Even little things, like, I bite my nails. I bit my nails for years and years, but finally, I realized I could stop that nasty habit. I shouldn't hold back even the smallest things from God. Now I have pretty nails! That's something very simple and obviously there have been bigger things in my life, such as relationships, which have been hinderances. I recently fasted about a particular relationship and felt very clear answers. Once I did what I felt I should, I felt that peace. Very good for you :)
@NoPenniesHere - I think it's those seemingly insignificant victories that build us up for the larger ones. Even David had a bear and a lion to kill before he dealt with Goliath. Thanks for sharing that experience! I think with all of us giving our stories, we might be able to help someone who is afraid to trust and surrender.
You know what I have noticed time and time again. There's been times I have just said over and over to myself, "this is it, it is going to work this time" and it did. Looking back, I'd like to believe it has something to do with faith as small as a mustard seed.
@IMChurchmouse - I don't have time for that. I just ate an entire deep fried pizza and drank some microwaved milk chocolate. Then I jumped on the scale and lost a half pound! Haha. -Jason
@MySecretLoveAffair - awesome! Thanks for reminding us of that =)
@firemanjay988 - Your inner brat is having a really GOOD day, isn't he? LOL
I have three friends who have had the lap band surgeries. They all started out good and all of them lost weight. Two of them didn't follow the suggested eating plan and gained back all they lost and more. One lost all fo the weight and has kept it off for five years now.
@stixandstonz - Like you, I have seen a friend not succeed even with the lap band surgery. That was only one of the reasons I didn't opt for it. I have no insurance and can't afford it is another one. So, I realized that it isn't really the surgery that guarantees the success. It's that core of "I can do this" in spite of our fears and our weaknesses. But I need that faith that I can find whatever I need anytime that I need it, too. I honestly think I lacked it. I also had some form of "why can't I have good things?" attitude working on me once I lost the weight. This time, I'm more aware of what I need, and how to ask for it =).
Thanks for mentioning that!
@IMChurchmouse - Dave just played with your calculator site. He needs to be 6'7" to be a healthy weight so he is planning on figuring out a way to grow 6 inches rather than losing 30 pounds. Time for another entire cake covered with gravy. I am savage. -Jason
@firemanjay988 - no! Frosting is more calories than gravy!
I know just how your room mate feels....sigh....
I couldn't have said it better than Humble ^^ !
@StlPromoPrint2 -@HumbleWalk - He IS good, isn't he?
@Jaynebug - I like that thought, too. Cause I am a firm believer that God speaks to us through that "gut talk". Unfortunately, my belly tends to shout when my "gut" whispers during weight loss durations, lol!
@IMChurchmouse - Each day new. Good luck!
Good luck with the life-changing. Way to go! We have been given the power to make such changes, but they are so hard to do. I'm currently not doing well with my weaknesses, to be honest. I'm looking to make some changes, too.
@ideaguy - I have had other areas of former weakness that I have seen put to rights, so that is the springboard I can use for my success. I had a great time talking to Phil and his wife last night just before others arrived for our Bible study, and it just confirmed the timing for me. I think that my new point is that: if I love God, I will obey Him. If I don't obey Him I am either unruly and rebellious, or I lack faith. If I am unruly, then humility will help me get over that - and I have been humbled. If I am lacking in faith, then James teaches me how to have it revived and how to help it grow (hint: use it).
I really like your artistry, btw! Thanks for stopping by and leaving this thoughtful comment.
@Redlegsix - Boy do I know how THAT all feels! (the meaning to do it, but not able to get into the "doing") I honestly find that if I don't begin with a fast, I CAN'T get the motivation. I found it out on accident with my periods of illness, and it really has been the method of success for me. It might be the thing to help you as well. I only stay away from solid food and drink only clear very diluted fluids. I have to go to three days at least before the cravings are finally overcome and I feel pretty good. Then I only allow myself soup the first day back. My Messianic Rabbi who comes from an Orthodox tradition (and has been taught all his life how to fast), insists that it must not be canned soups, but home made versions so that they are pure and without chemical enhancements. I like being fussed over, but in our busy lives, some of the high quality canned soups or carry out soups that are not creamed will do.
Justathot
cm
My you have a nice Memorial Day,Dodi!
I will pray for your goal and challenge. I was 40 when I had my first heart attack. I took that as an early warning system. I made the recommended changes and am 75. I have a shot at 76 unless God has a better idea.
I have since I was born again, that God has just been weeding out my sins. I don't understand why He helps me have success easily and then have some that I want to quit and have success. Here I am at 75 and He is bringing conviction and power to finally pull away from some persistent concerns.
I guess God is on His own time table even for dealing with weaknesses or growth.
Wish I had a good answer for you.
I see you are fasting and really depending on God. That is the only way to go as I see it.
blessings
frank