I finished reading the "Thin Within" book for the second time now. I have found it such an insightful, uplifting, life-changing book! I'm looking forward to starting "Thin Again" (by the same authors) tomorrow.
I stepped on the scale today and was so encouraged to see the #'s finally move down! I have been 165 lbs steady since mid-March. I have been thankful to maintain that weight...but still longed to see some progress. So, to see 164 lbs on the scale today was a HUGE deal for me! I feel like I've crossed another hurdle and am hoping and praying I will continue to release some more weight. Last November I was 173 lbs. When I re-started TW in February I was 172 lbs...down 8 lbs in the past three months. Praise God!
“With Thin within, you don’t need to be perfect, but I came to understand I needed to persevere. Things happen and can seem overwhelming, but now I know how to refocus on God and press on.” (p.259 TW)
“Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.”
F. Scott Fizgerald
“…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil 1:6
You can view my Daily Food Log here.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
April 29
Chapter 28 & 29 reflections:
A few things that stood out for me when reading these chapters....
Jesus says, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me." Matthew 11:29
"To submit willingly to a yoke is to submit to the authority of the one to whom we are bound...Beth Moore states, 'There is no such thing as yoke-free living.' We will bow to someone or something. Jesus is requesting that we offer ourselves in surrender to Him and His call. Thankfully, unlike the yokes of slavery, the law, or hard service, Jesus promised that His yoke would be easy and that His burden would be light. In fact, He promised to be our yoke-fellow, the one who would pull alongside us and bear much of the burden." p. 297
Chapter 29 p.313 asks us to reflect on changes over the past month...
I feel I have crossed an obstacle that in the past has usually discouraged and stopped me from moving forward - FAILURE. This step of persevering (in the face of failure) is a big step for me! Praise God!
You can view my Daily Food Log here.
A few things that stood out for me when reading these chapters....
Jesus says, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me." Matthew 11:29
"To submit willingly to a yoke is to submit to the authority of the one to whom we are bound...Beth Moore states, 'There is no such thing as yoke-free living.' We will bow to someone or something. Jesus is requesting that we offer ourselves in surrender to Him and His call. Thankfully, unlike the yokes of slavery, the law, or hard service, Jesus promised that His yoke would be easy and that His burden would be light. In fact, He promised to be our yoke-fellow, the one who would pull alongside us and bear much of the burden." p. 297
Chapter 29 p.313 asks us to reflect on changes over the past month...
I feel I have crossed an obstacle that in the past has usually discouraged and stopped me from moving forward - FAILURE. This step of persevering (in the face of failure) is a big step for me! Praise God!
You can view my Daily Food Log here.
Choices
Yesterday there were a few times where I had a choice to make...
First, I went out for coffee with a friend in the morning. I was thinking about the cafe mocha on the menu (was craving that) but opted instead for a sugar/cream free herbal tea instead as I wasn't hungry. I was so thankful I made this choice as I ended up getting hungry shortly after and able to enjoy a good lunch rather. Praise God!
Second, I went out with a friend for dessert in the evening. I saved some room for dessert, which was the first victory step! Then after that I decided to share a dessert with her (she left it up to me). I'm glad I made this decision as it was the perfect amount of treat. I didn't feel overfull and I felt completely satisfied and we had a wonderful visit. Praise God for this as well!
You can view my Daily Food Log here.
First, I went out for coffee with a friend in the morning. I was thinking about the cafe mocha on the menu (was craving that) but opted instead for a sugar/cream free herbal tea instead as I wasn't hungry. I was so thankful I made this choice as I ended up getting hungry shortly after and able to enjoy a good lunch rather. Praise God!
Second, I went out with a friend for dessert in the evening. I saved some room for dessert, which was the first victory step! Then after that I decided to share a dessert with her (she left it up to me). I'm glad I made this decision as it was the perfect amount of treat. I didn't feel overfull and I felt completely satisfied and we had a wonderful visit. Praise God for this as well!
You can view my Daily Food Log here.
Monday, April 28, 2008
My first-ever blog is up and running!
Yeah, I'm all caught up on putting my Feb/Mar/Apr journalling on this blog. I really wanted to capture the journey from the very start (or as close as I could to the start). I have optimistically started hunger/fullness eating and then fallen off the wagon and failed COUNTLESS times over the past six years. It has felt like a losing battle. I'm very thankful that I stumbled across the "Thin Within" book (definitely NOT a coincidence...but rather was a gift from God I'm sure) as it really has jump started this process for me. This is definitely the most dedicated I've yet been to persevering and not giving up on this weight loss journey....
I know that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me"!
I know that "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me"!
April 25
April 25th food log:
(Chapter 25)
Looking back to February I see so much progress. Looking back to last month when I was having a really consistent stretch and lost a number of pounds I don’t feel quite as optimistic! However I do know that change is a process and journey and accept that. I accept that I have choices to make each moment of the day. I am hopeful that as I progress in this journey I will choose right choices more often. I am not feeling defeated, but certainly feel like I’m at a plateau and need to jump-start things a little! I really wanted to eat breakfast this morning but haven’t felt a rumble in the tummy yet so will wait a little bit. I’ll bring along an apple & yogurt to the doctor office as I head there in a little bit.
(Chapter 25)
Looking back to February I see so much progress. Looking back to last month when I was having a really consistent stretch and lost a number of pounds I don’t feel quite as optimistic! However I do know that change is a process and journey and accept that. I accept that I have choices to make each moment of the day. I am hopeful that as I progress in this journey I will choose right choices more often. I am not feeling defeated, but certainly feel like I’m at a plateau and need to jump-start things a little! I really wanted to eat breakfast this morning but haven’t felt a rumble in the tummy yet so will wait a little bit. I’ll bring along an apple & yogurt to the doctor office as I head there in a little bit.
April 24
April 24th food log:
(Chapter 24)
#1 By God’s grace and strength I will be 159 lbs by day 30. (currently 165lbs)
My weight is still 165lbs… This is a positive in many ways of course. But I also know I need to re-adjust my hunger #’s and make sure I’m consistent if I want to lose weight and not just maintain… So, my goal for next Saturday, May 3rd is 162lbs as already stated before. I am going to aim to eat only to a #4 as I know it and hopefully this will help me re-adjust my hunger #’s.
#2 By God’s grace and strength I will exercise 5x each week (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat)
My goal remains to exercise 5x each week as often as possible. I find this hard at times, but will try to get some exercise 3-5x each week plus flyer delivery 2x week. I think this is do-able.
#3 By God’s grace and strength I will follow my daily day plan & tidy my laundry rm.
I think I’m going to scrap the daily day plan. Doesn’t seem to be working. However, I still want to meet the objectives/aims of the daily day plan that I created. It was good to work out a schedule as it gives me a better idea of how I can get all my objectives met and how little extra time there really is to spare! I will clean up the laundry room TOMORROW! Saturday! That will be my aim. Then I should have a fairly clean storage space under the stairs and a clean laundry room…that would feel good. Next week I’ll be working on cleaning up our room a little as my in-laws arrive for a visit and will use our room…which will probably require doing the annual winter/spring clothes switch-a-roo.
(Chapter 24)
#1 By God’s grace and strength I will be 159 lbs by day 30. (currently 165lbs)
My weight is still 165lbs… This is a positive in many ways of course. But I also know I need to re-adjust my hunger #’s and make sure I’m consistent if I want to lose weight and not just maintain… So, my goal for next Saturday, May 3rd is 162lbs as already stated before. I am going to aim to eat only to a #4 as I know it and hopefully this will help me re-adjust my hunger #’s.
#2 By God’s grace and strength I will exercise 5x each week (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat)
My goal remains to exercise 5x each week as often as possible. I find this hard at times, but will try to get some exercise 3-5x each week plus flyer delivery 2x week. I think this is do-able.
#3 By God’s grace and strength I will follow my daily day plan & tidy my laundry rm.
I think I’m going to scrap the daily day plan. Doesn’t seem to be working. However, I still want to meet the objectives/aims of the daily day plan that I created. It was good to work out a schedule as it gives me a better idea of how I can get all my objectives met and how little extra time there really is to spare! I will clean up the laundry room TOMORROW! Saturday! That will be my aim. Then I should have a fairly clean storage space under the stairs and a clean laundry room…that would feel good. Next week I’ll be working on cleaning up our room a little as my in-laws arrive for a visit and will use our room…which will probably require doing the annual winter/spring clothes switch-a-roo.
April 23
April 23rd food log:
(Chapter 22 & 23)
This quote from p. 222 stood out:
This is what we mean by being thin within. It is authentically living on the outside what is genuinely present on the inside. Our desire is to have a heart in which Christ will dwell and be at home. As we allow Him to abide there and resolve to keep nothing from Him, He makes us more like Himself inside and out. The false or flesh life is crucified daily so that the Christlike life may shine through.
This statement really speaks entirely of a surrendered life in all areas. As I looked at the Path of God’s provision diagram on p. 223 I noticed the outline of all that He provides me with to live the holy life….His Plan, His Will, His Spirit, His Power, His Presence. That’s awesome!
It feels so good to be limiting my sugar intake. I feel more free interestingly enough. Last night was hard not to reach for something sugary after supper, but I had watermelon instead and it was quite fine. I have avoided putting sugar on my cereal the past two days as well. Try to wean myself from sugar again!
One thing I’ve noticed lately is that I really feel free to choose what I want to eat for lunches. I don’t feel like I HAVE to eat only certain foods…. In the past I’d know I could be hungry for supper if I ate certain meals…but lately I have felt free to experiment a bit more and it has been very satisfying. For example, yesterday I had fajitas for lunch, not a typical lunch for me, but it was delicious and satisfying and I was hungry in time for supper. I have really been enjoying this renewed sense of freedom.
Wish I’d waited to get hungry in the afternoon. Feel kind of ripped off that I didn’t! The fresh tortillas were calling for a taste-test and I was feeling a little off and thought the food may settle my stomach…which they did. Maybe I was hungry…not sure. Anyways, wishing I’d waited for “0”. On the positive note, I’m glad I stayed clear of sugar today. Feels good.
(Chapter 22 & 23)
This quote from p. 222 stood out:
This is what we mean by being thin within. It is authentically living on the outside what is genuinely present on the inside. Our desire is to have a heart in which Christ will dwell and be at home. As we allow Him to abide there and resolve to keep nothing from Him, He makes us more like Himself inside and out. The false or flesh life is crucified daily so that the Christlike life may shine through.
This statement really speaks entirely of a surrendered life in all areas. As I looked at the Path of God’s provision diagram on p. 223 I noticed the outline of all that He provides me with to live the holy life….His Plan, His Will, His Spirit, His Power, His Presence. That’s awesome!
It feels so good to be limiting my sugar intake. I feel more free interestingly enough. Last night was hard not to reach for something sugary after supper, but I had watermelon instead and it was quite fine. I have avoided putting sugar on my cereal the past two days as well. Try to wean myself from sugar again!
One thing I’ve noticed lately is that I really feel free to choose what I want to eat for lunches. I don’t feel like I HAVE to eat only certain foods…. In the past I’d know I could be hungry for supper if I ate certain meals…but lately I have felt free to experiment a bit more and it has been very satisfying. For example, yesterday I had fajitas for lunch, not a typical lunch for me, but it was delicious and satisfying and I was hungry in time for supper. I have really been enjoying this renewed sense of freedom.
Wish I’d waited to get hungry in the afternoon. Feel kind of ripped off that I didn’t! The fresh tortillas were calling for a taste-test and I was feeling a little off and thought the food may settle my stomach…which they did. Maybe I was hungry…not sure. Anyways, wishing I’d waited for “0”. On the positive note, I’m glad I stayed clear of sugar today. Feels good.
April 22
April 22nd food log:
(Chapter 20 & 21)
Well, I finally get a breather this morning! Some time to myself to sit and reflect. Reflecting on last Friday night and eating out I have to say I felt there was a change in my approach. I made sure to be hungry in time for the meal. Jon and I shared a meal and appetizer which was more then enough. I was very careful to eat slowly and savour the food and really watched my portions. I pushed aside the parts that I wasn’t enjoying as much. I stopped before I was full. It felt like I had internalized more of conscious eating. Praise be to God for that.
On a more negative note…..I just ate too much ice cream this weekend! Boy was it ever enjoyable, but it was just too much! Jon and I have made a pact to limit sugars and cut out desserts until his parent’s arrive for their visit on May 3rd….with the exception of if we’re out for dinner or have company over. So, I’m hoping this will be a time to really loosen the grip of sugar on my life again. I know it really does master me so often, so I guess I’ll declare this a bit of a “fast” from sugar for the next two weeks.
I have been feeling a little sick the past few days (not enough to not eat of course!) but it pushes me at times to reach for food when I’m not hungry. I’m not sure what the solution is to this. I often wonder if food will help settle my stomach….sometimes it does but mostly it doesn’t. So I’m not sure how to correct this behavior.
So, I’m pressing on. I am looking forward to reaching 160lbs and truly maintaining it. I think that would be a big step for me right now. I’m very thankful that I have maintained 165lbs over the past month. This feels like a step in the right direction. So, now I’m hoping for one more step in this direction.
Also I have been exercising a bit more over the past two weeks. This is a step in the right direction for me too.
“…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil 1:6
(Chapter 20 & 21)
Well, I finally get a breather this morning! Some time to myself to sit and reflect. Reflecting on last Friday night and eating out I have to say I felt there was a change in my approach. I made sure to be hungry in time for the meal. Jon and I shared a meal and appetizer which was more then enough. I was very careful to eat slowly and savour the food and really watched my portions. I pushed aside the parts that I wasn’t enjoying as much. I stopped before I was full. It felt like I had internalized more of conscious eating. Praise be to God for that.
On a more negative note…..I just ate too much ice cream this weekend! Boy was it ever enjoyable, but it was just too much! Jon and I have made a pact to limit sugars and cut out desserts until his parent’s arrive for their visit on May 3rd….with the exception of if we’re out for dinner or have company over. So, I’m hoping this will be a time to really loosen the grip of sugar on my life again. I know it really does master me so often, so I guess I’ll declare this a bit of a “fast” from sugar for the next two weeks.
I have been feeling a little sick the past few days (not enough to not eat of course!) but it pushes me at times to reach for food when I’m not hungry. I’m not sure what the solution is to this. I often wonder if food will help settle my stomach….sometimes it does but mostly it doesn’t. So I’m not sure how to correct this behavior.
So, I’m pressing on. I am looking forward to reaching 160lbs and truly maintaining it. I think that would be a big step for me right now. I’m very thankful that I have maintained 165lbs over the past month. This feels like a step in the right direction. So, now I’m hoping for one more step in this direction.
Also I have been exercising a bit more over the past two weeks. This is a step in the right direction for me too.
“…being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil 1:6
April 21
April 21st food log:
(Chapter 19)
This statement still resonates with me (unfortunately)…
“Since I have already eaten too much, I may as well eat more.” P.196
(Chapter 19)
This statement still resonates with me (unfortunately)…
“Since I have already eaten too much, I may as well eat more.” P.196
April 20
April 20th food log:
(Chapter 18)
A few things that stood out for this chapter:
“Everything is permissible for me but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me but I will not be mastered by anything.” 1 Cor. 6:12
“When you wait until your body is truly hungry, it sends you clear messages as to WHAT food you want to eat.” P.187
“In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but the foolish man devours all he has.” Prov. 21:20
(Chapter 18)
A few things that stood out for this chapter:
“Everything is permissible for me but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me but I will not be mastered by anything.” 1 Cor. 6:12
“When you wait until your body is truly hungry, it sends you clear messages as to WHAT food you want to eat.” P.187
“In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but the foolish man devours all he has.” Prov. 21:20
April 18
April 18th food log:
(Chapter 17)
I have a hard time knowing what #5 - #7 feel like. I know what it feels to feel completely comfortable at the end of a meal. Maybe most of my meals in a day are eaten to a #4 and then at supper I tend to eat a bit more and I feel uncomfortable as I end my meal but then as I get up to clear the table the discomfort is gone. Is that a #5 or a #6? I am a little confused. In some ways I think I may just be wanting that to be a #5 but it is really past that satisfied point and needs to be adjusted…..but that is really tough to do!!!! As I look at my weight release chart I see that I have really plateau-ed over the past month. I got to 165lbs on March 21st and am still at 165lbs. I’m thankful for maintaining, but also see there is an obvious need for adjustments to be made.
Gratitude Giving exercise p.174:
I’m thankful for
· Jon’s safe travels
· A good spring break even without him
· Friends & family
· A night off tonight (a date night)
· Strength for each day
· Hope
Well, today I have to really watch my hunger as I want to be good and hungry for supper tonight as Jon & I have a date night and are planning on going out for supper.
(Chapter 17)
I have a hard time knowing what #5 - #7 feel like. I know what it feels to feel completely comfortable at the end of a meal. Maybe most of my meals in a day are eaten to a #4 and then at supper I tend to eat a bit more and I feel uncomfortable as I end my meal but then as I get up to clear the table the discomfort is gone. Is that a #5 or a #6? I am a little confused. In some ways I think I may just be wanting that to be a #5 but it is really past that satisfied point and needs to be adjusted…..but that is really tough to do!!!! As I look at my weight release chart I see that I have really plateau-ed over the past month. I got to 165lbs on March 21st and am still at 165lbs. I’m thankful for maintaining, but also see there is an obvious need for adjustments to be made.
Gratitude Giving exercise p.174:
I’m thankful for
· Jon’s safe travels
· A good spring break even without him
· Friends & family
· A night off tonight (a date night)
· Strength for each day
· Hope
Well, today I have to really watch my hunger as I want to be good and hungry for supper tonight as Jon & I have a date night and are planning on going out for supper.
April 17
April 17th food log:
(Chapter 15 & 16)
What a wonderful walk I had this morning as I spent time in prayer. It actually was so fitting as this chapter emphasizes spending constant time in prayer with God. So that was kind of neat. I feel very thankful for spring. I feel very thankful for TW and the way that God has designed our bodies to naturally know when to eat and when to stop. I weighed in at 165 lbs so that is good. I know that if I keep this up to the end of the month I should be able to shed a few more pounds. Just have to keep persevering despite failures and setbacks. I really feel that God wants me to be obedient and surrendered in this no matter what the results. I fear the summer travels (when we tend to eat more/schedules out of whack/more junk food when camping and of course “tourist eating”) and falling off the wagon again….but then I know that I need to hang onto this over the summer. This needs to be a complete lifestyle change, not just for a season. That is my deepest desire. Right now is the time to lay the foundation of TW prior to summer when the temptations begin to be presented a bit more…
(Chapter 15 & 16)
What a wonderful walk I had this morning as I spent time in prayer. It actually was so fitting as this chapter emphasizes spending constant time in prayer with God. So that was kind of neat. I feel very thankful for spring. I feel very thankful for TW and the way that God has designed our bodies to naturally know when to eat and when to stop. I weighed in at 165 lbs so that is good. I know that if I keep this up to the end of the month I should be able to shed a few more pounds. Just have to keep persevering despite failures and setbacks. I really feel that God wants me to be obedient and surrendered in this no matter what the results. I fear the summer travels (when we tend to eat more/schedules out of whack/more junk food when camping and of course “tourist eating”) and falling off the wagon again….but then I know that I need to hang onto this over the summer. This needs to be a complete lifestyle change, not just for a season. That is my deepest desire. Right now is the time to lay the foundation of TW prior to summer when the temptations begin to be presented a bit more…
April 16
April 16th food log:
(Chapter 14)
I could really relate to the story on p.144 about Rebecca who learned to be “willing” to hear God’s voice and not insist on her “right” to three meals a day. I know that I need to be willing to give up more food, share my food, cut my food portions in half etc.
I think I’m also going to print Dr. Neil Anderson’s list of false beliefs combated with truth:
1.) Why should I say I CAN'T, when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength? (Phil 4:13)
2.) Why should I LACK, when I know that God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus? (Phil 4:19)
3.) Why should I FEAR, when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind? (2 Tim. 1:7)
4.) Why should I LACK FAITH to fulfill my calling, knowing that God has allotted to me a measure of faith (Rom 12:3)
5.) Why should I be WEAK when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God? (Ps 27:1; Dan. 11:32)
6.) Why should I allow SATAN SUPREMACY over my life, when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world? (1 John 4:4)
7.) Why should I ACCEPT DEFEAT, when the Bible says that God always leads me in triumph? (2 Cor. 2:14)
8.) Why should I LACK WISDOM, when God generously gives wisdom to me when I ask Him for it? (1 Cor. 1:30; James 1:5)
9.) Why should I be DEPRESSED, when I can have hope by calling to mind God’s loving-kindness, compassion, and faithfulness? (Lam. 3:21 – 23)
10.) Why should I ever be in BONDAGE, knowing that there is liberty in the Spirit of the Lord? (Gal. 5:1)
(Chapter 14)
I could really relate to the story on p.144 about Rebecca who learned to be “willing” to hear God’s voice and not insist on her “right” to three meals a day. I know that I need to be willing to give up more food, share my food, cut my food portions in half etc.
I think I’m also going to print Dr. Neil Anderson’s list of false beliefs combated with truth:
1.) Why should I say I CAN'T, when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength? (Phil 4:13)
2.) Why should I LACK, when I know that God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus? (Phil 4:19)
3.) Why should I FEAR, when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind? (2 Tim. 1:7)
4.) Why should I LACK FAITH to fulfill my calling, knowing that God has allotted to me a measure of faith (Rom 12:3)
5.) Why should I be WEAK when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God? (Ps 27:1; Dan. 11:32)
6.) Why should I allow SATAN SUPREMACY over my life, when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world? (1 John 4:4)
7.) Why should I ACCEPT DEFEAT, when the Bible says that God always leads me in triumph? (2 Cor. 2:14)
8.) Why should I LACK WISDOM, when God generously gives wisdom to me when I ask Him for it? (1 Cor. 1:30; James 1:5)
9.) Why should I be DEPRESSED, when I can have hope by calling to mind God’s loving-kindness, compassion, and faithfulness? (Lam. 3:21 – 23)
10.) Why should I ever be in BONDAGE, knowing that there is liberty in the Spirit of the Lord? (Gal. 5:1)
April 15
April 15th food log:
(Chapter 13)
“The intimacy God wants to share with us increases as we release to Him our unmet needs and our expectations of others and ourselves. It occurs by degrees as we surrender our mind, emotions, and will to Him. It occurs in obedience to His will as we look to Him moment by moment for inspiration and accept His equipping and His empowerment. He intends that His grace should infuse every aspect of our lives.” P.131
This really resonated with me. This morning I got down on my hands and knees and cried out to God in repentance and also crying for help to surrender fully to Him. Being obedient to Him in this area of eating is such a “small” step of obedience…. I’m not being asked to sacrifice my life, to muster up lots of courage, to face ridicule etc. I realized the absurdity of the way this sin of gluttony masters me. I feel God desiring me to learn obedience in this “small” thing and then He can teach me obedience in “bigger” things. Not sure if that makes sense…but that was what came to mind as I prayed today.
“I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing” Romans 7:18-19
“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Cor. 10:13
Lord, help me to call out to you in my moments of temptation and to have the faith that You will lead me in the ways that I should go. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. (p.137)
(Chapter 13)
“The intimacy God wants to share with us increases as we release to Him our unmet needs and our expectations of others and ourselves. It occurs by degrees as we surrender our mind, emotions, and will to Him. It occurs in obedience to His will as we look to Him moment by moment for inspiration and accept His equipping and His empowerment. He intends that His grace should infuse every aspect of our lives.” P.131
This really resonated with me. This morning I got down on my hands and knees and cried out to God in repentance and also crying for help to surrender fully to Him. Being obedient to Him in this area of eating is such a “small” step of obedience…. I’m not being asked to sacrifice my life, to muster up lots of courage, to face ridicule etc. I realized the absurdity of the way this sin of gluttony masters me. I feel God desiring me to learn obedience in this “small” thing and then He can teach me obedience in “bigger” things. Not sure if that makes sense…but that was what came to mind as I prayed today.
“I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing” Romans 7:18-19
“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Cor. 10:13
Lord, help me to call out to you in my moments of temptation and to have the faith that You will lead me in the ways that I should go. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. (p.137)
April 14
April 14th food log:
(Chapter 12)
I can relate to “greasy grace”!
“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” Romans 6:1-2
I weighed in at 167lbs today. I plan on weighing myself more frequently, at least for a time. I also think I need to assess my progress/success once again. I can see that discontinuing that has in many ways been the beginning of my “greasy grace” approach. I also need to be more mindful of eating to a #5 as I think I’ve been going past that comfy point far too often. I remember Jon saying years ago how he would “shrink his stomach” which always sounded absurd….but it really made sense as he would reduce the amount he consumed and his stomach began to be satisfied with less and less. I need to start “shrinking my stomach” too! (in more ways then one of couse!)
(Chapter 12)
I can relate to “greasy grace”!
“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” Romans 6:1-2
I weighed in at 167lbs today. I plan on weighing myself more frequently, at least for a time. I also think I need to assess my progress/success once again. I can see that discontinuing that has in many ways been the beginning of my “greasy grace” approach. I also need to be more mindful of eating to a #5 as I think I’ve been going past that comfy point far too often. I remember Jon saying years ago how he would “shrink his stomach” which always sounded absurd….but it really made sense as he would reduce the amount he consumed and his stomach began to be satisfied with less and less. I need to start “shrinking my stomach” too! (in more ways then one of couse!)
April 11
April 11th food log:
(Chapter 11)
“Be self-controlled and alert..resist him (devil), standing firm in the faith.”
1 Peter 5:8-9
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Cor 10:31
As I read this chapter I really felt motivated to re-think my progress. First of all, whether or not I reach my goal weights isn’t the crunch issue. I need to continue eating this way regardless if I lose weight or not…even if it just means maintaining, I need to be listen to my body’s God-given hunger/fullness signals. This is an encouraging (and scary) thought as I really came to terms with this being a for the rest of my life life-style change. I don’t want this to be a fad again. I have deep fears that this summer everything will revert when we’re on holidays. I pray this will not happen. Secondly, I felt challenged to think “How LITTLE does my body need?” rather then the way I often think now “How MUCH can I eat before I get full?” I need to have this really resonate with me to the core of me. I know I often think “oh one little bite hardly counts, so I’ll just finish that up even though I’m feeling full.” Etc. BUT if I actually stopped and didn’t eat all those extra “little” bites they would all add up to actually make a difference I bet. Anyways, I’m not giving up.
I’m not a failure, but rather a Saint by God’s calling who fails. I can’t….but God, you can.
Lord, please help me!
(Chapter 11)
“Be self-controlled and alert..resist him (devil), standing firm in the faith.”
1 Peter 5:8-9
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Cor 10:31
As I read this chapter I really felt motivated to re-think my progress. First of all, whether or not I reach my goal weights isn’t the crunch issue. I need to continue eating this way regardless if I lose weight or not…even if it just means maintaining, I need to be listen to my body’s God-given hunger/fullness signals. This is an encouraging (and scary) thought as I really came to terms with this being a for the rest of my life life-style change. I don’t want this to be a fad again. I have deep fears that this summer everything will revert when we’re on holidays. I pray this will not happen. Secondly, I felt challenged to think “How LITTLE does my body need?” rather then the way I often think now “How MUCH can I eat before I get full?” I need to have this really resonate with me to the core of me. I know I often think “oh one little bite hardly counts, so I’ll just finish that up even though I’m feeling full.” Etc. BUT if I actually stopped and didn’t eat all those extra “little” bites they would all add up to actually make a difference I bet. Anyways, I’m not giving up.
I’m not a failure, but rather a Saint by God’s calling who fails. I can’t….but God, you can.
Lord, please help me!
April 10
April 10th
(Chapter 10)
I have to admit I’m a little discouraged today (which makes this chapter all the more fitting!). I stepped on the scale yesterday and saw I hadn’t made much progress in terms of weight… It really made me feel quite frustrated primarily because I have this goal for next Friday to be 159 lbs (which is needed to be attained to meet the next goal two weeks later etc…). I just don’t think I can meet my goal and feel like a failure as a result. I weighed about 164lbs (down a lb from last weigh-in) but thought I’d see more progress. Anyways, I’m “pressing on toward the goal” (phil. 3:14). I’m not giving up. I’m not a FAILURE, but rather God’s SAINT by calling who fails! (p98)
“He knows we will fail even before we do, but it is not His will that we fail without benefiting or maturing in some way from the experience.” (p99)
“Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end. Failure is something we can avoid only by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” (Denis Waitley p.95)
I really appreciated the devotion that a friend sent today:
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10
Whenever food comes into my mind and I have the strongest urges to eat, I just close my eyes, clear my head, and try to think of all the wonderful blessings God has given me. I ask God to help me, and then I wait very quietly for Him to answer my humble plea. God has never failed me. In some of the toughest situations, I feel His gentle presence, and my hunger and desire leave me. In the quiet times of our lives God comes the closest, because we do not shove Him aside with other concerns. Call upon God, then wait. He will come.
It really coincided well with p.96 “A second reason we fail is we often try to act in our own strength. Rather then waiting on God and His timing, we run ahead of him…..I presume that God needs my help, when in truth He needs my humble dependence and patience as I wait on Him and Him alone.” I see many things that a failures in my life…everytime I lack discipline and self-control with eating, emotions, speech, computer/tv time. I feel I am struggling because I have often left God out of the equation and really have willful rebellion.
(Chapter 10)
I have to admit I’m a little discouraged today (which makes this chapter all the more fitting!). I stepped on the scale yesterday and saw I hadn’t made much progress in terms of weight… It really made me feel quite frustrated primarily because I have this goal for next Friday to be 159 lbs (which is needed to be attained to meet the next goal two weeks later etc…). I just don’t think I can meet my goal and feel like a failure as a result. I weighed about 164lbs (down a lb from last weigh-in) but thought I’d see more progress. Anyways, I’m “pressing on toward the goal” (phil. 3:14). I’m not giving up. I’m not a FAILURE, but rather God’s SAINT by calling who fails! (p98)
“He knows we will fail even before we do, but it is not His will that we fail without benefiting or maturing in some way from the experience.” (p99)
“Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end. Failure is something we can avoid only by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.” (Denis Waitley p.95)
I really appreciated the devotion that a friend sent today:
Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10
Whenever food comes into my mind and I have the strongest urges to eat, I just close my eyes, clear my head, and try to think of all the wonderful blessings God has given me. I ask God to help me, and then I wait very quietly for Him to answer my humble plea. God has never failed me. In some of the toughest situations, I feel His gentle presence, and my hunger and desire leave me. In the quiet times of our lives God comes the closest, because we do not shove Him aside with other concerns. Call upon God, then wait. He will come.
It really coincided well with p.96 “A second reason we fail is we often try to act in our own strength. Rather then waiting on God and His timing, we run ahead of him…..I presume that God needs my help, when in truth He needs my humble dependence and patience as I wait on Him and Him alone.” I see many things that a failures in my life…everytime I lack discipline and self-control with eating, emotions, speech, computer/tv time. I feel I am struggling because I have often left God out of the equation and really have willful rebellion.
April 9
April 9th food log:
(Chapter 9)
“God uses each and every tear we have shed and every pain we have experienced to form and mold our character, to strengthen us, and to draw us closer to His heart. He wants us to experience His strength and sufficiency. He uses affliction to cause us to see our need for Him and our struggles with food, eating, and our bodies to send us to Him, to look for HIS solution. In our weakness, He is made strong. He uses even this personal battle you are experiencing and He will redeem it for His glory.” P. 87/88
“Anita, a participant who released twenty pounds, said ‘Through TW I came to see that the trials I had faced and the way I had chosen to deal with them—by running to food—were actually God’s way of calling me into closer fellowship with Him. When my food and eating problem became desperate, I saw my need for a great deliverer. God has taken my trials and hardships, and used them to build my character and transform my life.’” P88
(Chapter 9)
“God uses each and every tear we have shed and every pain we have experienced to form and mold our character, to strengthen us, and to draw us closer to His heart. He wants us to experience His strength and sufficiency. He uses affliction to cause us to see our need for Him and our struggles with food, eating, and our bodies to send us to Him, to look for HIS solution. In our weakness, He is made strong. He uses even this personal battle you are experiencing and He will redeem it for His glory.” P. 87/88
“Anita, a participant who released twenty pounds, said ‘Through TW I came to see that the trials I had faced and the way I had chosen to deal with them—by running to food—were actually God’s way of calling me into closer fellowship with Him. When my food and eating problem became desperate, I saw my need for a great deliverer. God has taken my trials and hardships, and used them to build my character and transform my life.’” P88
April 8
April 8th food log:
(Chapter 8)
Creative options rather then eating not “0”:Bath, walk, exercise, pray, devotions, go on internet, email, call friend, dance/sing with kids, do a chore, play piano, brush teeth, run an errand…..
(Chapter 8)
Creative options rather then eating not “0”:Bath, walk, exercise, pray, devotions, go on internet, email, call friend, dance/sing with kids, do a chore, play piano, brush teeth, run an errand…..
April 7
April 7th food log:
(Chapter 7)
Neat quote that stuck out for me on this reading of chapter 7:
“Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.” F. Scott Fizgerald
I need to be very careful to only eat when I’m hungry. I notice I’ve had a few slip ups over the past week. My goal for April 17th (159lbs) will be hard to attain if I am not focussed on surrendering to God with 0-5 eating.
I have felt so convicted over the past week or so of areas that need to be surrendered to Christ. I may have mentioned these before, but I’ll say it again J I need to surrender my eating/food relationship, emotions (expressed and unexpressed), TV/computer time. I felt that I was fairly surrendered with each of these areas today. I ate 0-5 all day. I think my emotions were in check. I spent about 1 hr on each computer and TV which is the aim of the max. I want to spend. So, praise God for answered prayer!
(Chapter 7)
Neat quote that stuck out for me on this reading of chapter 7:
“Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.” F. Scott Fizgerald
I need to be very careful to only eat when I’m hungry. I notice I’ve had a few slip ups over the past week. My goal for April 17th (159lbs) will be hard to attain if I am not focussed on surrendering to God with 0-5 eating.
I have felt so convicted over the past week or so of areas that need to be surrendered to Christ. I may have mentioned these before, but I’ll say it again J I need to surrender my eating/food relationship, emotions (expressed and unexpressed), TV/computer time. I felt that I was fairly surrendered with each of these areas today. I ate 0-5 all day. I think my emotions were in check. I spent about 1 hr on each computer and TV which is the aim of the max. I want to spend. So, praise God for answered prayer!
April 6
April 6th food log:
(Chapter 6)
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” 1 Corinthians 6:19a
(Chapter 6)
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” 1 Corinthians 6:19a
April 5
April 5th food log:
(Chapter 5)
“But we have this treasure (the presence of God) in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7
(Chapter 5)
“But we have this treasure (the presence of God) in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.” 2 Corinthians 4:7
April 4
April 4 food log
(Chapter 4)
This chapter really drove home to me that I have been caught up in something that looked like a good idea at the time (and certainly served a purpose) but is now time to cut loose. I had been tracking my progress with stars and % and have come to conclusion that it is now hindering me from being truly honest with myself and really learning the most I can through observations and corrections. The assessment tools were becoming the club of condemnation. Instead I need to ask myself “What could I have done differently to produce a better outcome?” (p.42) I needed the feedback these assessments offered in the beginning stages as I just needed to get back on the right track, but now that I am pretty consistently on the right track I need to fine-tune my eating choices and behaviors. Trying to make it all look “pretty” by giving myself a perfect star or rationalizing my way to these marks doesn’t help me move forward. “In matters of food and eating, the key is to move steadily forward with a sincere heart of willingness and faith, allowing yourselves to observe and correct your behavior.” (P.41) So, here goes my new approach! I’ll try to do lots of observing and correcting, repenting and accepting God’s forgiveness and help and move forward under the canopy of His grace. Praise God!
(Chapter 4)
This chapter really drove home to me that I have been caught up in something that looked like a good idea at the time (and certainly served a purpose) but is now time to cut loose. I had been tracking my progress with stars and % and have come to conclusion that it is now hindering me from being truly honest with myself and really learning the most I can through observations and corrections. The assessment tools were becoming the club of condemnation. Instead I need to ask myself “What could I have done differently to produce a better outcome?” (p.42) I needed the feedback these assessments offered in the beginning stages as I just needed to get back on the right track, but now that I am pretty consistently on the right track I need to fine-tune my eating choices and behaviors. Trying to make it all look “pretty” by giving myself a perfect star or rationalizing my way to these marks doesn’t help me move forward. “In matters of food and eating, the key is to move steadily forward with a sincere heart of willingness and faith, allowing yourselves to observe and correct your behavior.” (P.41) So, here goes my new approach! I’ll try to do lots of observing and correcting, repenting and accepting God’s forgiveness and help and move forward under the canopy of His grace. Praise God!
April 3
April 3rd food log:
(Chapter 3)
#1 By God’s grace and strength I will be 159 lbs by day 30. (currently 165lbs)
#2 By God’s grace and strength I will exercise 5x each week (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat)
#3 By God’s grace and strength I will follow my daily day plan & tidy my laundry rm.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1Cor. 10:31
“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Cor. 3:18
Lord, I am thankful for your promise to change me to become more like you. Amen
(Chapter 3)
#1 By God’s grace and strength I will be 159 lbs by day 30. (currently 165lbs)
#2 By God’s grace and strength I will exercise 5x each week (Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat)
#3 By God’s grace and strength I will follow my daily day plan & tidy my laundry rm.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1Cor. 10:31
“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Cor. 3:18
Lord, I am thankful for your promise to change me to become more like you. Amen
April 2
April 2nd food log:
Chapter 1 & 2
Well, I’m back to re-reading the book. I figure it helps me stay better focussed. I’m sure I’ll glean new things each time I read the chapters. Some of the chapters were pretty heavy, so I’m sure it will take more to work through the teachings/exercises again. I started my day determined to wait for hunger and surrendered to God. I was thankful when I got hungry by lunchtime. A couple lines stood out for me
“…we can then praise Him for the sight, the smell, and the taste of each bite of food.” (p8)
“Look at your food, take a bite, chew deliberately, and fully experience the flavor.” (p10)
One of my goals for the next while is going to be to really LOOK at the food and praise God for it. The girls and I did this for lunch today and we were all amazed at the intricacies of the watermelon, grapes and bagels. It was neat looking at the colors and textures…a good experience for us all. In the process it led our gaze upward towards the maker of all things. Praise God!
Another thing that stood out for me was the teaching on stopping before my body is full (p.10). I may need to re-think my hunger #’s. I think I often feel FULL when I’m done a meal, not simply satisfied and comfortable. I think it is time for me to cut back a little. I need to keep in mind what my daughter said a couple months ago....that full means “up to the belly button” and another saying some kid said awhile back about being full feeling like “nothing”. Interesting thoughts to ponder. I think I’m pushing the limits on #5!
Chapter 1 & 2
Well, I’m back to re-reading the book. I figure it helps me stay better focussed. I’m sure I’ll glean new things each time I read the chapters. Some of the chapters were pretty heavy, so I’m sure it will take more to work through the teachings/exercises again. I started my day determined to wait for hunger and surrendered to God. I was thankful when I got hungry by lunchtime. A couple lines stood out for me
“…we can then praise Him for the sight, the smell, and the taste of each bite of food.” (p8)
“Look at your food, take a bite, chew deliberately, and fully experience the flavor.” (p10)
One of my goals for the next while is going to be to really LOOK at the food and praise God for it. The girls and I did this for lunch today and we were all amazed at the intricacies of the watermelon, grapes and bagels. It was neat looking at the colors and textures…a good experience for us all. In the process it led our gaze upward towards the maker of all things. Praise God!
Another thing that stood out for me was the teaching on stopping before my body is full (p.10). I may need to re-think my hunger #’s. I think I often feel FULL when I’m done a meal, not simply satisfied and comfortable. I think it is time for me to cut back a little. I need to keep in mind what my daughter said a couple months ago....that full means “up to the belly button” and another saying some kid said awhile back about being full feeling like “nothing”. Interesting thoughts to ponder. I think I’m pushing the limits on #5!
Sunday, April 27, 2008
MARCH - TW ch 29
March 29th food log:
I found it interesting doing the survey on p. 309-312. I found there actually were some changes to some of the answers compared to a month ago. Kind of neat actually. I feel I’m actually not worrying about my weight and food as much. I find this quite interesting as in the past I was much more consumed and stressed about this when eating within hunger/fullness. I feel this is a change in the right direction. Also, I feel there have been changes in my approach towards social eating. I don’t feel it is as much of a problem. I feel like I’ve experienced some victory in this area. I DEFINITELY know that my attention towards eating to fullness has changed. This is something I have never focussed on properly. I have tended to only focus on hunger “0”. So, this is quite an encouraging change as well. And I definitely feel I have changed in my approach towards eating….I have the conscious eating tips ingrained in my thinking. So, praise God for these changes. I’m encouraged to look back and see some changes. I look forward to these being cemented further. I really want to see 0-5 eating just flow naturally from me, no stress about it, but just flowing as second nature. I look forward to the day when it just works that way. I feel I’m on the right path right now. I also look forward to the day when I experience victory in the face of temptation. ...actually the focus needs to be entirely on God and the ways of escape that He has provided, as this is the only true hope for victory. This is definitely an area that needs to be focussed on.
A couple verses I have found have stood out to me over the past while are:
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Hmmm….I never noticed before that the passages references were nearly identical with the “1” and “3” switched around! Interesting!!! That should help stick it in my memory!
Here are some goals (to be done in God’s strength) I have for the next stretch as I will have completed the book as of tomorrow…
1.) Re-read highlighted portions of book and also my journaling.
2.) Continue keeping a daily journal and food log.
3.) Continue conscious eating and 0-5 eating – aim for at least 90% eating at “0”
4.) Daily, read/study topics/words under the concordance and personalize/pray these verses.
5.) Exercise 20 minutes 5x/week starting April 1st.
6.) Make a daily schedule to help fulfill goals and follow God’s leading.
7.) Plan for trials and be prepared. Pray a prayer of surrender daily. Look for the escape from temptations.
8.) My goals are:
*mid-April 160lbs
*mid-May 155lbs
*mid-June 150lbs *147lbs by the beginning of summer vacation
I found it interesting doing the survey on p. 309-312. I found there actually were some changes to some of the answers compared to a month ago. Kind of neat actually. I feel I’m actually not worrying about my weight and food as much. I find this quite interesting as in the past I was much more consumed and stressed about this when eating within hunger/fullness. I feel this is a change in the right direction. Also, I feel there have been changes in my approach towards social eating. I don’t feel it is as much of a problem. I feel like I’ve experienced some victory in this area. I DEFINITELY know that my attention towards eating to fullness has changed. This is something I have never focussed on properly. I have tended to only focus on hunger “0”. So, this is quite an encouraging change as well. And I definitely feel I have changed in my approach towards eating….I have the conscious eating tips ingrained in my thinking. So, praise God for these changes. I’m encouraged to look back and see some changes. I look forward to these being cemented further. I really want to see 0-5 eating just flow naturally from me, no stress about it, but just flowing as second nature. I look forward to the day when it just works that way. I feel I’m on the right path right now. I also look forward to the day when I experience victory in the face of temptation. ...actually the focus needs to be entirely on God and the ways of escape that He has provided, as this is the only true hope for victory. This is definitely an area that needs to be focussed on.
A couple verses I have found have stood out to me over the past while are:
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
1 Corinthians 10:13
Hmmm….I never noticed before that the passages references were nearly identical with the “1” and “3” switched around! Interesting!!! That should help stick it in my memory!
Here are some goals (to be done in God’s strength) I have for the next stretch as I will have completed the book as of tomorrow…
1.) Re-read highlighted portions of book and also my journaling.
2.) Continue keeping a daily journal and food log.
3.) Continue conscious eating and 0-5 eating – aim for at least 90% eating at “0”
4.) Daily, read/study topics/words under the concordance and personalize/pray these verses.
5.) Exercise 20 minutes 5x/week starting April 1st.
6.) Make a daily schedule to help fulfill goals and follow God’s leading.
7.) Plan for trials and be prepared. Pray a prayer of surrender daily. Look for the escape from temptations.
8.) My goals are:
*mid-April 160lbs
*mid-May 155lbs
*mid-June 150lbs *147lbs by the beginning of summer vacation
MARCH - TW ch 28
March 28th food log:
Interesting chapter today. I find it interesting how our time management is being dealt with. Quite interesting. So, the things about which I procrastinate are (p. 299):
cleaning up the laundry room
doing laundry!
Doing my budget updates
Cleaning up under the bathroom sink and the medicine cabinet
Correspondence/keeping in touch with family/friends
Devotions
Exercise
Those are some of the first that came to mind.
Some things I can do to relax (p. 302):
play piano
nap
take a bath
journaling
devotions/prayer
Interesting chapter today. I find it interesting how our time management is being dealt with. Quite interesting. So, the things about which I procrastinate are (p. 299):
cleaning up the laundry room
doing laundry!
Doing my budget updates
Cleaning up under the bathroom sink and the medicine cabinet
Correspondence/keeping in touch with family/friends
Devotions
Exercise
Those are some of the first that came to mind.
Some things I can do to relax (p. 302):
play piano
nap
take a bath
journaling
devotions/prayer
MARCH - TW ch 26
March 26th food log:
Reflecting on Chapter 26 I was blown away by how the first passage quoted in the beginning of this chapter was Psalm 63. The “Fruits of the Spirit” study (by Beth Moore) that I had dug into last night had studied that exact passage. It had really spoken to me. I was really touched as I felt God was very purposefully directing my eyes to this passage and all that is unpacked in it. I’ll just highlight a bit of the teaching that was presented in the study, reflecting on Psalm 63.
1.) Acknowledge His authority!
O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you; Psalm 63:1
Awaken every morning to the challenge, “Choose….this day whom you will serve!” (Josh. 24:15) As you acknowledge His lordship, confess to Him any thoughts, words, or deeds performed outside the realm of His authority…All sin boils down to an issue of authority. His will or my will!
2.) Abound in His presence!
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water Psalm 63:1
As often as you are completely cleansed and yielded, you will possess a power that is completely beyond you…to love, to experience joy, to know peace, to express patience, to possess kindness and respond in goodness, to be faithful, gentle and submissive to his will, restrained and under control.
3.) Ask to see His glory and power!
“I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory”. Psalm 63:2
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
If you ask to see Him and then agree to keep watching through the eyes of the Spirit, you will see His power and His glory everyday. From glorious morning to marvelous day! Let’s proceed to actions sparked in the morning and then spontaneous throughout the day.
4.) Award Him with your mouth!
“Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.” Psalm 63:3
Pray for a mouth that glorifies Him all day long, and you will be filled with a sense of His love and approval.
5.) Approach Him with praise!
“I will praise you as long as I live,” Psalm 63:4
6.) Attribute satisfaction to Him
“Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.” Psalm 65:4
7.) Audit the manifold blessings!
“On my bed I remember you;” Psalm 63:6
Keep a diary of His activity in your life. A record of you history with God is an immeasurable asset to your Christian experience. How do you know He will care for you today? Because He cared for you yesterday! And the day before! And the day before! He never changes. He’ll never forget you. When He discloses Himself to you, remember it, praise Him for it, and record it! Nighttime is prime time for remembering the day.
8.) Allow yourself to rest in His arms!
“I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.” Psalm 63:7-8
“I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8
As I read chapter 26 I was once again struck by the desire to loosen the grip of TV and the computer in my life. I would really like to set a goal of 1hr TV/day and 1hr computer/day (with the exception of my journaling which does take a lot of time and thought sometimes and I do prefer doing it on the computer versus paper). Also, I when looking over the list on p. 284 of suggestions for how to lengthen a person’s life, the ones that I think I need to focus on in particular of the ten points is maintaining (or reaching in my case!) optimum weight and exercising 30 minutes daily (I don’t feel bad if I adjust that as long as there is some exercise in my week and as long as I have an active lifestyle).
Reflecting on Chapter 26 I was blown away by how the first passage quoted in the beginning of this chapter was Psalm 63. The “Fruits of the Spirit” study (by Beth Moore) that I had dug into last night had studied that exact passage. It had really spoken to me. I was really touched as I felt God was very purposefully directing my eyes to this passage and all that is unpacked in it. I’ll just highlight a bit of the teaching that was presented in the study, reflecting on Psalm 63.
1.) Acknowledge His authority!
O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you; Psalm 63:1
Awaken every morning to the challenge, “Choose….this day whom you will serve!” (Josh. 24:15) As you acknowledge His lordship, confess to Him any thoughts, words, or deeds performed outside the realm of His authority…All sin boils down to an issue of authority. His will or my will!
2.) Abound in His presence!
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water Psalm 63:1
As often as you are completely cleansed and yielded, you will possess a power that is completely beyond you…to love, to experience joy, to know peace, to express patience, to possess kindness and respond in goodness, to be faithful, gentle and submissive to his will, restrained and under control.
3.) Ask to see His glory and power!
“I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory”. Psalm 63:2
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
If you ask to see Him and then agree to keep watching through the eyes of the Spirit, you will see His power and His glory everyday. From glorious morning to marvelous day! Let’s proceed to actions sparked in the morning and then spontaneous throughout the day.
4.) Award Him with your mouth!
“Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.” Psalm 63:3
Pray for a mouth that glorifies Him all day long, and you will be filled with a sense of His love and approval.
5.) Approach Him with praise!
“I will praise you as long as I live,” Psalm 63:4
6.) Attribute satisfaction to Him
“Blessed are those you choose and bring near to live in your courts! We are filled with the good things of your house, of your holy temple.” Psalm 65:4
7.) Audit the manifold blessings!
“On my bed I remember you;” Psalm 63:6
Keep a diary of His activity in your life. A record of you history with God is an immeasurable asset to your Christian experience. How do you know He will care for you today? Because He cared for you yesterday! And the day before! And the day before! He never changes. He’ll never forget you. When He discloses Himself to you, remember it, praise Him for it, and record it! Nighttime is prime time for remembering the day.
8.) Allow yourself to rest in His arms!
“I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.” Psalm 63:7-8
“I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8
As I read chapter 26 I was once again struck by the desire to loosen the grip of TV and the computer in my life. I would really like to set a goal of 1hr TV/day and 1hr computer/day (with the exception of my journaling which does take a lot of time and thought sometimes and I do prefer doing it on the computer versus paper). Also, I when looking over the list on p. 284 of suggestions for how to lengthen a person’s life, the ones that I think I need to focus on in particular of the ten points is maintaining (or reaching in my case!) optimum weight and exercising 30 minutes daily (I don’t feel bad if I adjust that as long as there is some exercise in my week and as long as I have an active lifestyle).
MARCH - TW ch 25
March 25th food log:
Well, I must say I’m disappointed that I wasn’t hungry for supper yesterday. I was so close to rumbling, but don’t want to lie to myself (or others) and say I was truly hungry. I want to be as authentic as possible on this journey.
Chapter 25 was a very interesting read. I found it very practical and in many ways I’ve already dealt with a lot of these situations/circumstances….although I really liked the “spin” the author puts on these circumstances asking what the main purpose of these social occasions or family meals etc. is really about.
· satisfying hunger
· conversation
· convenience
· together time
· learning proper table etiquette
· making new acquaintances
· fun
· business contacts
· eat the food because the chef is excellent
“It may be helpful to take a personal inventory prior to attending a social occasion. Pray for wisdom, then ask yourself, ‘Why am I going to this particular event and what do I hope to gain from it?’ It’s doubtful that your answer will be ‘I want to overeat.’” P.270
Well, I must say I’m disappointed that I wasn’t hungry for supper yesterday. I was so close to rumbling, but don’t want to lie to myself (or others) and say I was truly hungry. I want to be as authentic as possible on this journey.
Chapter 25 was a very interesting read. I found it very practical and in many ways I’ve already dealt with a lot of these situations/circumstances….although I really liked the “spin” the author puts on these circumstances asking what the main purpose of these social occasions or family meals etc. is really about.
· satisfying hunger
· conversation
· convenience
· together time
· learning proper table etiquette
· making new acquaintances
· fun
· business contacts
· eat the food because the chef is excellent
“It may be helpful to take a personal inventory prior to attending a social occasion. Pray for wisdom, then ask yourself, ‘Why am I going to this particular event and what do I hope to gain from it?’ It’s doubtful that your answer will be ‘I want to overeat.’” P.270
MARCH - TW ch 24
March 24th:
“We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:3-5
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it” 1 Cor. 10:13
Your resolve to finish the restoration and subsequent maintenance of your body, God’s temple, will undoubtedly be challenged; so be prepared and well armed. Look on your trials as an opportunity for the Lord to form and shape your character. He will provide a way of escape if you are open to it. You can be confident that He will not allow anything to prevent the accomplishment of His plan and purpose for His beloved, you. He will provide the grace and the strength you need to emerge victorious.” P.257
This chapter really spoke to me, right where I was at… I was feeling quite down, like a failure once again. And this chapter just lifted me right up out of that defeated place and back on the path of grace. As I started reading I was at a place where I was fearing being unable to successfully complete my goals… I felt like I had failed and was feeling quite down…
A statement on p. 259 that stood out was: “With Thin within, you don’t need to be perfect, but I came to understand I needed to persevere. Things happen and can seem overwhelming, but now I know how to refocus on God and press on.”
P. 260 Specific Actions to take to reach Goals
Goal #1:
0-5 Eating 0-5 consistently
Expect to realistically reach 162lbs by Monday, March 31st if I follow the above plan.
1.) Pray each morning (and through day) a prayer of surrender and cry for help.
2.) Post planning for trials exercise around the house, drawing more attention to them.
3.) Conscious Eating – refocus
4.) Continue with daily journaling and food log.
5.) Keep a gratitude journal (add it to my daily journal).
6.) Practice praying scripture and claiming promises.
7.) Limit the baking!
Goal #2:
Exercise 4x week
This goal is on hold until April when I will tackle this one full force. I am okay with this. I’m looking forward to the warmer weather and starting a 3 month exercise challenge with Jon.
Goal #3:
Clean laundry room, under bathroom sink, medicine cabinet
1.) Today – clean medicine cabinet
2.) Tuesday evening – clean under sink
3.) Next Monday, March 31st clean laundry room
“We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” Romans 5:3-5
“No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it” 1 Cor. 10:13
Your resolve to finish the restoration and subsequent maintenance of your body, God’s temple, will undoubtedly be challenged; so be prepared and well armed. Look on your trials as an opportunity for the Lord to form and shape your character. He will provide a way of escape if you are open to it. You can be confident that He will not allow anything to prevent the accomplishment of His plan and purpose for His beloved, you. He will provide the grace and the strength you need to emerge victorious.” P.257
This chapter really spoke to me, right where I was at… I was feeling quite down, like a failure once again. And this chapter just lifted me right up out of that defeated place and back on the path of grace. As I started reading I was at a place where I was fearing being unable to successfully complete my goals… I felt like I had failed and was feeling quite down…
A statement on p. 259 that stood out was: “With Thin within, you don’t need to be perfect, but I came to understand I needed to persevere. Things happen and can seem overwhelming, but now I know how to refocus on God and press on.”
P. 260 Specific Actions to take to reach Goals
Goal #1:
0-5 Eating 0-5 consistently
Expect to realistically reach 162lbs by Monday, March 31st if I follow the above plan.
1.) Pray each morning (and through day) a prayer of surrender and cry for help.
2.) Post planning for trials exercise around the house, drawing more attention to them.
3.) Conscious Eating – refocus
4.) Continue with daily journaling and food log.
5.) Keep a gratitude journal (add it to my daily journal).
6.) Practice praying scripture and claiming promises.
7.) Limit the baking!
Goal #2:
Exercise 4x week
This goal is on hold until April when I will tackle this one full force. I am okay with this. I’m looking forward to the warmer weather and starting a 3 month exercise challenge with Jon.
Goal #3:
Clean laundry room, under bathroom sink, medicine cabinet
1.) Today – clean medicine cabinet
2.) Tuesday evening – clean under sink
3.) Next Monday, March 31st clean laundry room
Steps to Strengthen Belief System
Chapter 22 & 23
March 22nd & 23rd:
Steps to Strengthening Your Belief System (P. 233-234)
1. State with confidence and boldness: “God has equipped me with everything I need to be what He wants me to be and to accomplish what He wants me to accomplish.”
Taking action on p. 235:
Romans 8:1-2 personalized:
Through acceptance of Jesus’ payment for my sin of gluttony, I am fully forgiven and free to follow Him.
Psalm 27:1 personalized:
I don’t need to be afraid of failure to lose weight and be healthy because God is my Savior and will help me press on and release weight.
Philippians 4:13 personalized:
God equips me with the strength I need to withstand the temptation of poor eating choices and eating outside 0-5.
2. Remind yourself often of the Lord’s promise to make a way when there seems to be no way.
P. 235 encourages dealing with temptation with gratitude statements/thanksgiving journal and reading Scripture. I prayed:
Dear Lord, thank you for helping me persevere through ups and downs of the past 8 weeks. Please help me stick to 0-5 eating and be free from the mastery of the sin of gluttony. Please help me continue to surrender to you. Amen.
3. Highlight verses in your Bible that deal with courage, confidence, faith and believing.
I reflected on the following verses in prayer….
Matthew 14:27 – Lord, thank you for being my Savior. I trust and believe (not doubt!) that You are faithful and will give me the strength I need to fully surrender my greedy to you. Thank you.
Hebrews 3:6 – Lord, thank you for taking over the reins of my life. Help me hold onto You and cling to You.
4. Pray the promises of God.
1 John 4:4 – Father, I believe that You are greater then any force in the world. You are able to overcome ANY obstacle, any temptation Satan throws my way, particularily with regards to gluttony.
Psalm 20:4-5 – Thank you for saving me. Thank you for answering my calls to You. Thank you for the power You promise to give me to save me.
5. Visualize and affirm your assets.
I visualize the following impressions of what it would look like if I cooperated with God in the goals I listed in Chapter 16:
Goal #1 (reach 160lbs….restated success would be eating 0-5 consistently 10/14 days remaining) --
I would feel healthy, slim and victorious in God!
Goal #2 (exercise 3x week)
I would feel healthy and energized and disciplined.
Goal #3 (clean out different messes in the house)
I would feel lighter as a burden is lifted.
6. Make and memorize a list of character qualities that you desire to develop.
Character trait #1: Disciplined/self-controlled
I would like to incorporate this in my life in the following ways:
Eat 0-5, exercise 4x/week, watch 1 hr TV/day, 1 hr computer/day, keep house running smoothly, daily prayer/devotions
Character trait #2: Wise/Discerning
I would like to incorporate this in my life in the following ways:
Study God’s word, pray, memorize bible so I can more effectively apply and share my faith and ultimately pass it on to my kids.
Character trait #3: Patience/gentleness
I would like to incorporate this in my life in the following ways:
Slow to anger with my family, treat family with empathy, encouragement and love.
7. Actively replace negative thoughts and statements with positive thoughts and statements.
8. When an obstacle arises, state boldly, “If God is for me, who can be against me?”
9. When you are feeling harassed by Satan, say aloud, “Father, God, I want to thank you that you are greater than anything Satan can do to me.”
List some situations or circumstances in which you find yourself feeling most harassed by the enemy: p.248
· Anxieties – the “what ifs” of life!
· Failures – self control, gluttony, patience
10. Remind yourself continually: “God is with me in this. He will never leave or forsake me.”
March 22nd & 23rd:
Steps to Strengthening Your Belief System (P. 233-234)
1. State with confidence and boldness: “God has equipped me with everything I need to be what He wants me to be and to accomplish what He wants me to accomplish.”
Taking action on p. 235:
Romans 8:1-2 personalized:
Through acceptance of Jesus’ payment for my sin of gluttony, I am fully forgiven and free to follow Him.
Psalm 27:1 personalized:
I don’t need to be afraid of failure to lose weight and be healthy because God is my Savior and will help me press on and release weight.
Philippians 4:13 personalized:
God equips me with the strength I need to withstand the temptation of poor eating choices and eating outside 0-5.
2. Remind yourself often of the Lord’s promise to make a way when there seems to be no way.
P. 235 encourages dealing with temptation with gratitude statements/thanksgiving journal and reading Scripture. I prayed:
Dear Lord, thank you for helping me persevere through ups and downs of the past 8 weeks. Please help me stick to 0-5 eating and be free from the mastery of the sin of gluttony. Please help me continue to surrender to you. Amen.
3. Highlight verses in your Bible that deal with courage, confidence, faith and believing.
I reflected on the following verses in prayer….
Matthew 14:27 – Lord, thank you for being my Savior. I trust and believe (not doubt!) that You are faithful and will give me the strength I need to fully surrender my greedy to you. Thank you.
Hebrews 3:6 – Lord, thank you for taking over the reins of my life. Help me hold onto You and cling to You.
4. Pray the promises of God.
1 John 4:4 – Father, I believe that You are greater then any force in the world. You are able to overcome ANY obstacle, any temptation Satan throws my way, particularily with regards to gluttony.
Psalm 20:4-5 – Thank you for saving me. Thank you for answering my calls to You. Thank you for the power You promise to give me to save me.
5. Visualize and affirm your assets.
I visualize the following impressions of what it would look like if I cooperated with God in the goals I listed in Chapter 16:
Goal #1 (reach 160lbs….restated success would be eating 0-5 consistently 10/14 days remaining) --
I would feel healthy, slim and victorious in God!
Goal #2 (exercise 3x week)
I would feel healthy and energized and disciplined.
Goal #3 (clean out different messes in the house)
I would feel lighter as a burden is lifted.
6. Make and memorize a list of character qualities that you desire to develop.
Character trait #1: Disciplined/self-controlled
I would like to incorporate this in my life in the following ways:
Eat 0-5, exercise 4x/week, watch 1 hr TV/day, 1 hr computer/day, keep house running smoothly, daily prayer/devotions
Character trait #2: Wise/Discerning
I would like to incorporate this in my life in the following ways:
Study God’s word, pray, memorize bible so I can more effectively apply and share my faith and ultimately pass it on to my kids.
Character trait #3: Patience/gentleness
I would like to incorporate this in my life in the following ways:
Slow to anger with my family, treat family with empathy, encouragement and love.
7. Actively replace negative thoughts and statements with positive thoughts and statements.
8. When an obstacle arises, state boldly, “If God is for me, who can be against me?”
9. When you are feeling harassed by Satan, say aloud, “Father, God, I want to thank you that you are greater than anything Satan can do to me.”
List some situations or circumstances in which you find yourself feeling most harassed by the enemy: p.248
· Anxieties – the “what ifs” of life!
· Failures – self control, gluttony, patience
10. Remind yourself continually: “God is with me in this. He will never leave or forsake me.”
MARCH - TW ch 22
March 22nd:
“God can use our struggle with compulsive overeating and our inappropriate view of our bodies to form and shape our character. To use another analogy, consider the underside of a tapestry where all sorts of loose threads are going every which way with no rhyme or reason. To use it looks like a big mess. However, on the topside, from God’s perspective, we discover a perfect masterpiece from the hand of the Creator. Our lives are the same. The view from below appears chaotic at times but from above, He is weaving a wondrous design that will take our breath away.” P.233
I feel frustrated with myself for letting myself slip up and stop being alert and self-controlled, resisting Satan. One observation I have made is that I overdid it on the pizza at lunch and that was the beginning of the slippery slope. I knew I was eating out at suppertime at mom & dad’s, so to correct this I really should have been more careful at lunchtime to eat a small amount so I’d be hungry for supper. I will try to remember this next time. Lord, please remind me of this!
I also feel frustrated and disgusted with myself for eating those candies in the evening. They didn’t taste that good and the thought “I want to be good and hungry for breakfast in the morning.” kept running through my head…..but I still kept going on my path and ended up feeling so yucky. To correct this next time I need to not allow myself to feel a failure after a couple bites of candy. I know I thought something along the lines of “well, I have already failed, so I am just going to stay on this path and do what I want right now!” Next time I need to stop right there and remember how disgusting I felt eating to a #8 and remember to call out to God in prayer, maybe seek some help from Jon at that point as well. Maybe he could hide the candy etc. Lord, please remind me how awful it feels to eat past #8.
“God can use our struggle with compulsive overeating and our inappropriate view of our bodies to form and shape our character. To use another analogy, consider the underside of a tapestry where all sorts of loose threads are going every which way with no rhyme or reason. To use it looks like a big mess. However, on the topside, from God’s perspective, we discover a perfect masterpiece from the hand of the Creator. Our lives are the same. The view from below appears chaotic at times but from above, He is weaving a wondrous design that will take our breath away.” P.233
I feel frustrated with myself for letting myself slip up and stop being alert and self-controlled, resisting Satan. One observation I have made is that I overdid it on the pizza at lunch and that was the beginning of the slippery slope. I knew I was eating out at suppertime at mom & dad’s, so to correct this I really should have been more careful at lunchtime to eat a small amount so I’d be hungry for supper. I will try to remember this next time. Lord, please remind me of this!
I also feel frustrated and disgusted with myself for eating those candies in the evening. They didn’t taste that good and the thought “I want to be good and hungry for breakfast in the morning.” kept running through my head…..but I still kept going on my path and ended up feeling so yucky. To correct this next time I need to not allow myself to feel a failure after a couple bites of candy. I know I thought something along the lines of “well, I have already failed, so I am just going to stay on this path and do what I want right now!” Next time I need to stop right there and remember how disgusting I felt eating to a #8 and remember to call out to God in prayer, maybe seek some help from Jon at that point as well. Maybe he could hide the candy etc. Lord, please remind me how awful it feels to eat past #8.
MARCH - TW ch 21
March 21st:
This paragraph expressed what I’ve been feeling quite well…
“Truly, if you were to find yourself at the end of these thirty days, smaller in size, yet without the peace, joy, and freedom we have been pursuing, it would all be in vain. ‘It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.’ Galatians 5:1
Becoming real exercise p.225:
I realize that most people don’t see how MUCH I can eat, how greedy I am! When out with friends I have definitely experienced that feeling that I don’t want to “look” bad and eat the whole dessert at a restaurant (or a large dairy queen blizzard!)…meanwhile, if I was with Jon I could devour the whole thing no problem…plus the remainder of his probably!!! Not good!
I liked the statement on p. 225 “You can never be ugly when you are real, ‘except to people who don’t understand.’”
I really liked this story on p. 226:
“I have a friend who takes a large river rock and writes with a permanent ink marker the date and way in which she has seen God’s presence manifest in her family’s lives. One at a time, more rocks have been added to the collection. The river rocks now adorn her garden, visible reminders of the ways in which God has answered prayer, provided insight, delivered her from sin—the list goes on and on. They are literal ‘memorial stones’ of God’s incredible goodness and faithfulness.”
What are some ways you can think of to remind yourself of God’s goodness and faithfulness to you? P. 227
Journalling is the first thing that comes to mine.
Gratitude list p.227:
Family, home, church, forgiveness of sins, friends, God’s faithfulness, beauty of the earth, marriage, health, 5lbs released.
This paragraph expressed what I’ve been feeling quite well…
“Truly, if you were to find yourself at the end of these thirty days, smaller in size, yet without the peace, joy, and freedom we have been pursuing, it would all be in vain. ‘It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.’ Galatians 5:1
Becoming real exercise p.225:
I realize that most people don’t see how MUCH I can eat, how greedy I am! When out with friends I have definitely experienced that feeling that I don’t want to “look” bad and eat the whole dessert at a restaurant (or a large dairy queen blizzard!)…meanwhile, if I was with Jon I could devour the whole thing no problem…plus the remainder of his probably!!! Not good!
I liked the statement on p. 225 “You can never be ugly when you are real, ‘except to people who don’t understand.’”
I really liked this story on p. 226:
“I have a friend who takes a large river rock and writes with a permanent ink marker the date and way in which she has seen God’s presence manifest in her family’s lives. One at a time, more rocks have been added to the collection. The river rocks now adorn her garden, visible reminders of the ways in which God has answered prayer, provided insight, delivered her from sin—the list goes on and on. They are literal ‘memorial stones’ of God’s incredible goodness and faithfulness.”
What are some ways you can think of to remind yourself of God’s goodness and faithfulness to you? P. 227
Journalling is the first thing that comes to mine.
Gratitude list p.227:
Family, home, church, forgiveness of sins, friends, God’s faithfulness, beauty of the earth, marriage, health, 5lbs released.
MARCH - TW ch 20
March 20th:
I stepped on the scale this morning….even though I was going to wait till the end of the month. I felt like I needed to have some feedback in regards to my progress. I was very pleased to see I’m at 165 lbs! Yeah! Down 5 pounds in the past two weeks! This was just the affirmation I needed. It would be wonderful if I could get down to 160lbs by the end of the month. That would be super encouraging. Anyways, the main reflection of success for me still lies in changed eating habits. That is where I want to concentrate.
The biggest change needs to lie in my heart surrendered to God and His will. I am praying daily on this and know I have some growing to do in this regard. I need to be willing to find that way out (that He always provides) in the midst of temptation. I find that REALLY hard!!! I’m a little anxious about the upcoming weekend with Easter meals and treats. I am going to have to really be alert and self-controlled and resist Satan and the temptation he will be presenting!
I stepped on the scale this morning….even though I was going to wait till the end of the month. I felt like I needed to have some feedback in regards to my progress. I was very pleased to see I’m at 165 lbs! Yeah! Down 5 pounds in the past two weeks! This was just the affirmation I needed. It would be wonderful if I could get down to 160lbs by the end of the month. That would be super encouraging. Anyways, the main reflection of success for me still lies in changed eating habits. That is where I want to concentrate.
The biggest change needs to lie in my heart surrendered to God and His will. I am praying daily on this and know I have some growing to do in this regard. I need to be willing to find that way out (that He always provides) in the midst of temptation. I find that REALLY hard!!! I’m a little anxious about the upcoming weekend with Easter meals and treats. I am going to have to really be alert and self-controlled and resist Satan and the temptation he will be presenting!
MARCH - TW ch 19
March 19th:
It was so encouraging this morning to actually get a hungry growl by 7:45 am! What a treat! Tells me I’m on track!
It was so encouraging this morning to actually get a hungry growl by 7:45 am! What a treat! Tells me I’m on track!
MARCH - TW ch 18
March 18th:
Back in November this was the last chapter I read, so I plan on beating that record this time round! One thing I am very thankful for is that I’m persevering through the ups and downs of this journey to greater freedom in Christ and victory over this sin of gluttony and greed. I am now in my 7th week and have NOT had a completely victorious walk, but have kept on going… This is a big step for me! Praise God! It’s about grace and forgiveness. It’s also about being accountable this time round, not giving up when the going gets rough!
So today’s study really dealt with pleasers, teasers and rejects. I’m going to have to think on this a bit more. I’m not sure I can pinpoint all of these different foods quite yet.
Pleasers:
I know that pleasers vary depending on what I’m craving, so I’m not sure I can really name too many pleasers. I’m not particularly picky, so a lot of things “please” me. One that came to mind was a dessert—a chocolate extreme blizzard. That would probably be the ultimate pleaser in terms of sugary treats for me. Watermelon is another pleaser! Love, love, love watermelon.
Teasers:
Teasers are anything that is sugary in the house that tempt me! I know that I don’t function best with just sugar in my body so when I have baking or candies or chocolate around the house they definitely act as teasers for me. And I can definitely relate to #8 on p.187
“The all-time classic teaser is what’s left of your pleaser when you have reached your comfortable 5 and are satisfied.”
Total Rejects:
I can’t think of total rejects right now. But there are probably lots that I reject on a daily basis. Actually I probably avoid buying them in the first place! I’ll have to think on this one a bit more.
P.188
“Whole-body pleasers are those foods that your body calls out for, are enjoyable while you eat them, and they leave you feeling energized afterward.”
I need to dwell on this statement a bit more as well. I think that sugary treats are often not whole-body pleasers for me so I need to keep in mind the bigger picture more often. I need to remember how it feels to overeat on pleasers. I need to remember which pleasers make me feel the best.
I should really have just gone straight to the malt candies as they were the real pleasers. Instead I wasted calories on the other candies (the teasers). Lesson learned. However I was also trying to avoid sugar…..so it wasn’t following my plan either!
Back in November this was the last chapter I read, so I plan on beating that record this time round! One thing I am very thankful for is that I’m persevering through the ups and downs of this journey to greater freedom in Christ and victory over this sin of gluttony and greed. I am now in my 7th week and have NOT had a completely victorious walk, but have kept on going… This is a big step for me! Praise God! It’s about grace and forgiveness. It’s also about being accountable this time round, not giving up when the going gets rough!
So today’s study really dealt with pleasers, teasers and rejects. I’m going to have to think on this a bit more. I’m not sure I can pinpoint all of these different foods quite yet.
Pleasers:
I know that pleasers vary depending on what I’m craving, so I’m not sure I can really name too many pleasers. I’m not particularly picky, so a lot of things “please” me. One that came to mind was a dessert—a chocolate extreme blizzard. That would probably be the ultimate pleaser in terms of sugary treats for me. Watermelon is another pleaser! Love, love, love watermelon.
Teasers:
Teasers are anything that is sugary in the house that tempt me! I know that I don’t function best with just sugar in my body so when I have baking or candies or chocolate around the house they definitely act as teasers for me. And I can definitely relate to #8 on p.187
“The all-time classic teaser is what’s left of your pleaser when you have reached your comfortable 5 and are satisfied.”
Total Rejects:
I can’t think of total rejects right now. But there are probably lots that I reject on a daily basis. Actually I probably avoid buying them in the first place! I’ll have to think on this one a bit more.
P.188
“Whole-body pleasers are those foods that your body calls out for, are enjoyable while you eat them, and they leave you feeling energized afterward.”
I need to dwell on this statement a bit more as well. I think that sugary treats are often not whole-body pleasers for me so I need to keep in mind the bigger picture more often. I need to remember how it feels to overeat on pleasers. I need to remember which pleasers make me feel the best.
I should really have just gone straight to the malt candies as they were the real pleasers. Instead I wasted calories on the other candies (the teasers). Lesson learned. However I was also trying to avoid sugar…..so it wasn’t following my plan either!
MARCH - TW ch 17
March 17th:
I started off the day waiting for hunger. I didn’t feel/hear a rumble but pretty sure I was physically hungry on “0” while out doing grocery shopping. I went out to Tim Horton’s with a friend after the shopping and hadn’t had breakfast yet and didn’t want anything heavy or sugar-laden to eat, so I opted for an apple/cinnamon herbal tea (no sugar/cream). When I got home at lunch-time I was RAVENOUS and ate a reasonable amount. So I think I’m off to an okay start for the day/week. I am praying for continued surrender in this area. I am thankful for God’s strength and faithfulness through this process so far. I’m not sure what I think of the hunger graph exercise at this point. I am trying so hard to have 100% 0-5 eating days, so to track it seems a bit pointless in many ways. I think the way I’m tracking already works quite well. I don’t think I have a desire to eat at specific times…but rather my weakness lies with what kinds of food are lying around the house! I still want to minimize sugar consumption this week and really want to end a meal with nothing (no sugar-y dessert or even fruit).
I started off the day waiting for hunger. I didn’t feel/hear a rumble but pretty sure I was physically hungry on “0” while out doing grocery shopping. I went out to Tim Horton’s with a friend after the shopping and hadn’t had breakfast yet and didn’t want anything heavy or sugar-laden to eat, so I opted for an apple/cinnamon herbal tea (no sugar/cream). When I got home at lunch-time I was RAVENOUS and ate a reasonable amount. So I think I’m off to an okay start for the day/week. I am praying for continued surrender in this area. I am thankful for God’s strength and faithfulness through this process so far. I’m not sure what I think of the hunger graph exercise at this point. I am trying so hard to have 100% 0-5 eating days, so to track it seems a bit pointless in many ways. I think the way I’m tracking already works quite well. I don’t think I have a desire to eat at specific times…but rather my weakness lies with what kinds of food are lying around the house! I still want to minimize sugar consumption this week and really want to end a meal with nothing (no sugar-y dessert or even fruit).
MARCH - TW ch 16
March 16th:
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith.”
1 Peter 6:9
My original goals that I set on day 3 were:
Goal #1: 160lbs
Goal #2: exercise 3x/week
Goal#3: clean storage area under stairs and the laundry room
My re-adjusted goals are:
Goal#1: My main goal is to consistently eat 0-5 each day. I’d like to see at least 10 out of 14 completely on-track 0-5 eating days by the time I complete this book. Weight loss will fall in line with obedience in this regard.
Goal#2: I need to START exercising 3x/week! Jon and I are going to start a 3 month challenge starting in April. In the meantime I’d just like to try my best to go for short walks after dropping off the kids at school and slip in jumping rope a couple times. My main focus won’t be on this until April.
Goal#3: I cleaned the storage area….now onto the laundry room!
Significant Time Exercise p. 165
I know I filled this out previously. Not sure what I put down last time, but here is what came to mind as I quickly did it this time.
Significant Time #1 – Major relocation
Where were you?
Moved back to Canada (parents were missionaries overseas)
Who was with you?
My family
How did you feel?
Lonely, lost, bitter
Was there a shift in your weight as a result of this incident?
Yes
What decisions did you make as a result of this incident?
Food changes, eating habits changed. I no longer was under the rules of dorm life and had the freedom to snack when I wanted on what I wanted etc.
Did your self-esteem increase or decrease?
Decreased a little, but then that is probably normal in the teen years! But I still had a fairly healthy self-esteem.
How did this incident affect your view of God? Drew me closer to God.
Significant Time #2 - Marriage
Where were you?
Current city
Who was with you?
Jon
How did you feel?
Happy, loved, really enjoying being a homemaker, loved experimenting with cooking and baking.
Was there a shift in your weight as a result of this incident?
Yes
What decisions did you make as a result of this incident?
With baking, baking, baking came lots of eating!!! I no longer had ANY rules to live by as I could buy/eat whenever/whatever I wanted.
Did your self-esteem increase or decrease?
Neither.
How did this incident affect your view of God? Didn’t affect.
Significant Time #3 – Pregnancy #2
Where were you?
Here in our current home.
Who was with you?
family
How did you feel?
A bit out of control with eating, uncomfortable, had morning sickness, loved being able to eat, eat, eat for two!
Was there a shift in your weight as a result of this incident?
Yes
What decisions did you make as a result of this incident?
I felt like the pregnancy was licence to eat as much as I wanted. Morning sickness also made me always question whether I was hungry.
Did your self-esteem increase or decrease?
Neither.
How did this incident affect your view of God? Didn’t affect.
“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith.”
1 Peter 6:9
My original goals that I set on day 3 were:
Goal #1: 160lbs
Goal #2: exercise 3x/week
Goal#3: clean storage area under stairs and the laundry room
My re-adjusted goals are:
Goal#1: My main goal is to consistently eat 0-5 each day. I’d like to see at least 10 out of 14 completely on-track 0-5 eating days by the time I complete this book. Weight loss will fall in line with obedience in this regard.
Goal#2: I need to START exercising 3x/week! Jon and I are going to start a 3 month challenge starting in April. In the meantime I’d just like to try my best to go for short walks after dropping off the kids at school and slip in jumping rope a couple times. My main focus won’t be on this until April.
Goal#3: I cleaned the storage area….now onto the laundry room!
Significant Time Exercise p. 165
I know I filled this out previously. Not sure what I put down last time, but here is what came to mind as I quickly did it this time.
Significant Time #1 – Major relocation
Where were you?
Moved back to Canada (parents were missionaries overseas)
Who was with you?
My family
How did you feel?
Lonely, lost, bitter
Was there a shift in your weight as a result of this incident?
Yes
What decisions did you make as a result of this incident?
Food changes, eating habits changed. I no longer was under the rules of dorm life and had the freedom to snack when I wanted on what I wanted etc.
Did your self-esteem increase or decrease?
Decreased a little, but then that is probably normal in the teen years! But I still had a fairly healthy self-esteem.
How did this incident affect your view of God? Drew me closer to God.
Significant Time #2 - Marriage
Where were you?
Current city
Who was with you?
Jon
How did you feel?
Happy, loved, really enjoying being a homemaker, loved experimenting with cooking and baking.
Was there a shift in your weight as a result of this incident?
Yes
What decisions did you make as a result of this incident?
With baking, baking, baking came lots of eating!!! I no longer had ANY rules to live by as I could buy/eat whenever/whatever I wanted.
Did your self-esteem increase or decrease?
Neither.
How did this incident affect your view of God? Didn’t affect.
Significant Time #3 – Pregnancy #2
Where were you?
Here in our current home.
Who was with you?
family
How did you feel?
A bit out of control with eating, uncomfortable, had morning sickness, loved being able to eat, eat, eat for two!
Was there a shift in your weight as a result of this incident?
Yes
What decisions did you make as a result of this incident?
I felt like the pregnancy was licence to eat as much as I wanted. Morning sickness also made me always question whether I was hungry.
Did your self-esteem increase or decrease?
Neither.
How did this incident affect your view of God? Didn’t affect.
MARCH - TW ch 15
March 15th:
Well, today started off with good intentions. And could certainly have gone worse then it did! I was decorating my daughter's bday cake starting at 8:30am and was determined to wait for hunger and not snack on any of the candies, cake or icing in front of me. I did get hungry around 9:30am and decided I was just going to go for what I was craving and what I had been very good at resisting—the candy and cake! I was okay with that choice for today even if it wasn’t all that healthy! Then I was determined to wait for hunger for my next time of eating… I’m pretty sure I was near empty by 2pm and snacked on some of the party food. I definitely wasn’t practising conscious eating however. Then after the party I finished off the day with ‘supper’ and didn’t get stuffed but was a little “junk”-ed out! Anyways, I quit there and haven’t eaten anything since 5pm. I hope I’ll get hungry at a reasonable time tomorrow and am determined, with God’s help and for His glory alone, to have an “on-track” day tomorrow. I know there will be a bit of a challenge as I am hosting company for dinner which will take a bit to ensure I’m hungry at that time… So, we’ll see how it goes. I also have to be careful as I tend to want to eat after company.
One observation I can probably make for today is that I had a bit of the “after company” eating at 4pm. I was exhausted, didn’t feel like I’d really enjoyed my food when the party was on (basically wasn’t eating in present time) and so I was craving to taste the food. I’m not sure I even really savoured the food then as I was in such a rut. I’m okay with just moving past this and chalking it up to a “party day” but if I was to do a correction it would probably be first and foremost to not eat during the party, but rather save my eating for afterward. That would probably have cut down on the amount I ate regardless.
That’s about it for today! Looking forward to a good one tomorrow!
Well, today started off with good intentions. And could certainly have gone worse then it did! I was decorating my daughter's bday cake starting at 8:30am and was determined to wait for hunger and not snack on any of the candies, cake or icing in front of me. I did get hungry around 9:30am and decided I was just going to go for what I was craving and what I had been very good at resisting—the candy and cake! I was okay with that choice for today even if it wasn’t all that healthy! Then I was determined to wait for hunger for my next time of eating… I’m pretty sure I was near empty by 2pm and snacked on some of the party food. I definitely wasn’t practising conscious eating however. Then after the party I finished off the day with ‘supper’ and didn’t get stuffed but was a little “junk”-ed out! Anyways, I quit there and haven’t eaten anything since 5pm. I hope I’ll get hungry at a reasonable time tomorrow and am determined, with God’s help and for His glory alone, to have an “on-track” day tomorrow. I know there will be a bit of a challenge as I am hosting company for dinner which will take a bit to ensure I’m hungry at that time… So, we’ll see how it goes. I also have to be careful as I tend to want to eat after company.
One observation I can probably make for today is that I had a bit of the “after company” eating at 4pm. I was exhausted, didn’t feel like I’d really enjoyed my food when the party was on (basically wasn’t eating in present time) and so I was craving to taste the food. I’m not sure I even really savoured the food then as I was in such a rut. I’m okay with just moving past this and chalking it up to a “party day” but if I was to do a correction it would probably be first and foremost to not eat during the party, but rather save my eating for afterward. That would probably have cut down on the amount I ate regardless.
That’s about it for today! Looking forward to a good one tomorrow!
MARCH - TW ch 14
March 14th:
A few things stood out for me in this chapter…
“Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.” Romans 6:13
I slowly began to see that it was my spiritual act of worship to surrender my body to God when I ate, to offer myself to Him as a living sacrifice. Day by day it became a sweet surrender. Pg 142
I have been challenged this past week to minimize my sugar consumption, primarily my dessert consumption. I have done great this week….until last night. Anyways, this chapter deals with some of this issue… “Do certain foods tempt you to binge later?” pg 143 Yes, sugar definitely is a slippery slope for me!
I loved the list of false beliefs lined up with truth of God’s word by Dr. Neil Anderson. The one that really stood out for me was:
Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life, when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world? (1 John 4:4)
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4
Exercise 14-5 pg 148
Belief: Satan has supremacy
Action: Believe God is greater than Satan
Results: Victory over sin. Satan will no longer have mastery in my life.
A few things stood out for me in this chapter…
“Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.” Romans 6:13
I slowly began to see that it was my spiritual act of worship to surrender my body to God when I ate, to offer myself to Him as a living sacrifice. Day by day it became a sweet surrender. Pg 142
I have been challenged this past week to minimize my sugar consumption, primarily my dessert consumption. I have done great this week….until last night. Anyways, this chapter deals with some of this issue… “Do certain foods tempt you to binge later?” pg 143 Yes, sugar definitely is a slippery slope for me!
I loved the list of false beliefs lined up with truth of God’s word by Dr. Neil Anderson. The one that really stood out for me was:
Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life, when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world? (1 John 4:4)
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4
Exercise 14-5 pg 148
Belief: Satan has supremacy
Action: Believe God is greater than Satan
Results: Victory over sin. Satan will no longer have mastery in my life.
MARCH - TW ch 13
March 13th:
I can’t believe I’ve actually followed 0-5 eating Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this week! Woohoo! I find that pretty exciting. I am contemplating not even stepping on the scale until at least the end of the month. Maybe not even then. I just don’t want to be pulled into the head games that happen when I see that # on the scale. I am praying I can continue eating this way. I have been praying aloud each day asking for God to help me surrender to His will in this area, for the Holy Spirit to empower me to change etc. God has been so faithful this week. I am thankful for His strength. Last night I was at a ladies’ event and told my husband I wouldn’t eat the snacks served (as I knew I wouldn’t be hungry after supper)…and I followed through (praise God!). Each small victory is a step. I’m not sure how today will go as it is a pizza lunch at school….I’ll just eat one slice (just water to drink, nothing else) and see if I’m hungry by supper. Hoping I will be.
This chapter was a good reminder when I’m off track that I need to stop beating myself up (path of my own performance) which ultimately leads me to fail MORE….but rather observe, repent and correct and experience God’s grace and forgiveness and power.
Pg 134
“So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 7:21-25
There is good reason for gratitude once the correction is made and we focus our eyes on Him. Paul realized that his proper identity was in Christ. He recognized that without the Spirit all he could count on was failure. But he didn’t accept the identity of a “failure.” He recognized that he was no longer a slave to sin, but was now a slave to God, even if his body sometimes behaved otherwise. He thanked God that the truth lies in Christ through whom Paul was set free. Like him, once we are in Christ we have the freedom to become instruments of righteousness (Romans 6:13).
Behavior of my naturally thin friend exercise pg 135:
I have noticed many of my friends are thin eaters. One of my best friends is definitely a thin eater. She eats small portions at meals. She is stuffed way before me! She may turn down dessert or she may eat it, but always a very moderate amount. She has candy, chocolates, goodies sitting around her house for weeks not being eaten!!! Can’t imagine that! She knows NOTHING about calories or fat etc. of food! She just eats when she’s hungry, stops when she’s full, eats what she wants….and is naturally thin. In fact she seems to be AGAINST all diet rules! Kind of interesting I find! Another friend, who I knew YEARS ago, was a very slim lady. I worked as a nanny in her home, so I truly had a good glimpse of her eating. She always seemed to eat in moderation. She ate regular foods, desserts, didn’t exercise even (I think) and was very slim. She just seemed to be able to enjoy a moderate amount of healthy food and treats.
I can’t believe I’ve actually followed 0-5 eating Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this week! Woohoo! I find that pretty exciting. I am contemplating not even stepping on the scale until at least the end of the month. Maybe not even then. I just don’t want to be pulled into the head games that happen when I see that # on the scale. I am praying I can continue eating this way. I have been praying aloud each day asking for God to help me surrender to His will in this area, for the Holy Spirit to empower me to change etc. God has been so faithful this week. I am thankful for His strength. Last night I was at a ladies’ event and told my husband I wouldn’t eat the snacks served (as I knew I wouldn’t be hungry after supper)…and I followed through (praise God!). Each small victory is a step. I’m not sure how today will go as it is a pizza lunch at school….I’ll just eat one slice (just water to drink, nothing else) and see if I’m hungry by supper. Hoping I will be.
This chapter was a good reminder when I’m off track that I need to stop beating myself up (path of my own performance) which ultimately leads me to fail MORE….but rather observe, repent and correct and experience God’s grace and forgiveness and power.
Pg 134
“So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 7:21-25
There is good reason for gratitude once the correction is made and we focus our eyes on Him. Paul realized that his proper identity was in Christ. He recognized that without the Spirit all he could count on was failure. But he didn’t accept the identity of a “failure.” He recognized that he was no longer a slave to sin, but was now a slave to God, even if his body sometimes behaved otherwise. He thanked God that the truth lies in Christ through whom Paul was set free. Like him, once we are in Christ we have the freedom to become instruments of righteousness (Romans 6:13).
Behavior of my naturally thin friend exercise pg 135:
I have noticed many of my friends are thin eaters. One of my best friends is definitely a thin eater. She eats small portions at meals. She is stuffed way before me! She may turn down dessert or she may eat it, but always a very moderate amount. She has candy, chocolates, goodies sitting around her house for weeks not being eaten!!! Can’t imagine that! She knows NOTHING about calories or fat etc. of food! She just eats when she’s hungry, stops when she’s full, eats what she wants….and is naturally thin. In fact she seems to be AGAINST all diet rules! Kind of interesting I find! Another friend, who I knew YEARS ago, was a very slim lady. I worked as a nanny in her home, so I truly had a good glimpse of her eating. She always seemed to eat in moderation. She ate regular foods, desserts, didn’t exercise even (I think) and was very slim. She just seemed to be able to enjoy a moderate amount of healthy food and treats.
Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit
LIVING BEYOND YOURSELF: EXPLORING THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
by Beth Moore
I have also been doing another study called “Living beyond yourself: Exploring the fruits of the spirit” by Beth Moore. I am on the last unit and studying self-control this week and a few things stood out. I just wanted to highlight a few that are found on page 202-203 of this study guide.
“Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” Proverbs 25:28
Without self-control, we are like a city with broken-down walls! To understand the significance of such a terrible dilemma we must remember a crucial characteristic of ancient architecture: a city was only as secure as the walls which surrounded it. A city’s walls were its fortification. Archaeologists estimate that three chariots could ride side by side on the wall of Nineveh. The walls of Babylon were so wide that six chariots could ride abreast on them! Their walls lent the reputation that they were practically impenetrable.
“Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19
We are the temple of God….and self-control is our walls of protection. It fortifies all that is within. The quality of self-control is that which secures our freedom to love, to experience joy, to know peace, to respond with patience, to have a kind of disposition, to act out of goodness, to step out in faithfulness, and to agree with gentleness. How? Because self-control is the ability to make choices which invite and enhance the authority and filling of the Holy Spirit. Self control is the decision to remain within the boundaries of victory.
Any out-of-control area in our lives, no matter how big or how small, is an open invitation to the enemy……..He is always on the lookout for that one crumbling section of your protective wall…..His weapons are your greatest temptations. Your wounds are guilt, shame, frustration, and failure; his goal is to hold you captive for as long as possible.
“Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations. You will be called ‘Repairer of Broken Walls’ ‘Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.’.” Isaiah 58:12
by Beth Moore
I have also been doing another study called “Living beyond yourself: Exploring the fruits of the spirit” by Beth Moore. I am on the last unit and studying self-control this week and a few things stood out. I just wanted to highlight a few that are found on page 202-203 of this study guide.
“Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” Proverbs 25:28
Without self-control, we are like a city with broken-down walls! To understand the significance of such a terrible dilemma we must remember a crucial characteristic of ancient architecture: a city was only as secure as the walls which surrounded it. A city’s walls were its fortification. Archaeologists estimate that three chariots could ride side by side on the wall of Nineveh. The walls of Babylon were so wide that six chariots could ride abreast on them! Their walls lent the reputation that they were practically impenetrable.
“Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19
We are the temple of God….and self-control is our walls of protection. It fortifies all that is within. The quality of self-control is that which secures our freedom to love, to experience joy, to know peace, to respond with patience, to have a kind of disposition, to act out of goodness, to step out in faithfulness, and to agree with gentleness. How? Because self-control is the ability to make choices which invite and enhance the authority and filling of the Holy Spirit. Self control is the decision to remain within the boundaries of victory.
Any out-of-control area in our lives, no matter how big or how small, is an open invitation to the enemy……..He is always on the lookout for that one crumbling section of your protective wall…..His weapons are your greatest temptations. Your wounds are guilt, shame, frustration, and failure; his goal is to hold you captive for as long as possible.
“Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations. You will be called ‘Repairer of Broken Walls’ ‘Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.’.” Isaiah 58:12
MARCH - TW ch 12
March 12th:
Who I am in Christ p. 125
I am a temple of the Holy Spirit
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19
I am strong in the Lord.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Ephesians 6:10
I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
I am set free.
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32
I am more than a conqueror.
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37
Who I am in Christ p. 125
I am a temple of the Holy Spirit
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19
I am strong in the Lord.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Ephesians 6:10
I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
I am set free.
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32
I am more than a conqueror.
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37
MARCH - TW ch 11
March 11th:
A few things that stood out to me with this chapter:
“We often have temper tantrums about our bodies and our food. ‘I want what I want when I want I!’ Acting very much like spoiled children, we declare in word or deed, ‘MY will not Thy will.’ This is catering to the lie that ‘my body is my own.’” (pg 111)
“You can say, ‘I can’t,’ as long as in the next breath you say, ‘But, God, You can.’” (pg 114)
Prayer: Please break me where I am proud and strengthen me where I am weak so I can surrender fully to You and to the power of Your transforming grace. (pg 115)
I thought I’d reword my planning for trials exercise based on suggestions from pg 110.
IT’S TIME TO EAT!
I could go to my BR (far away from the dinner table) and pray, do devos. Another option would be to have a cup of herbal tea and sit at the table and visit with the family.
I’M BORED
Do chores, crafts, play, devos, phone a friend, go for a walk, the options are endless!
I’M LONELY
Phone a friend.
EATING OUT
Eat only half the amount, eat the best parts! Pack the leftovers of course.
SOCIAL PRESSURE
Just say
“NO thank you!!!!”
QUICK ENERGY
I think a better response would be for me to have a bath or to have a nap to rest up. Or just have a little tea to get me by….I’m taking to herbal teas as you can tell!
WINDING DOWN with dessert
(especially after company)
A better response would probably be to have a bath and relax and pray there….or have a herbal tea in front of the TV.
TASTE-TEST CALL!
I should leave the room, go to BR and spend time in prayer. Wait for “0”
JUST A LITTLE BITE!
Just turn away from the temptation as it will be a slippery slope! If I do take a little bite, just make sure it is savoured and STOP! Wait for “0” to enjoy more then a little bite.
I WANT TO EAT IT ALL!
Use a smaller plate at dinner. Use utensils. Fork down b/w bites. Sit down. Savour the food. Follow conscious eating tips.
A few things that stood out to me with this chapter:
“We often have temper tantrums about our bodies and our food. ‘I want what I want when I want I!’ Acting very much like spoiled children, we declare in word or deed, ‘MY will not Thy will.’ This is catering to the lie that ‘my body is my own.’” (pg 111)
“You can say, ‘I can’t,’ as long as in the next breath you say, ‘But, God, You can.’” (pg 114)
Prayer: Please break me where I am proud and strengthen me where I am weak so I can surrender fully to You and to the power of Your transforming grace. (pg 115)
I thought I’d reword my planning for trials exercise based on suggestions from pg 110.
IT’S TIME TO EAT!
I could go to my BR (far away from the dinner table) and pray, do devos. Another option would be to have a cup of herbal tea and sit at the table and visit with the family.
I’M BORED
Do chores, crafts, play, devos, phone a friend, go for a walk, the options are endless!
I’M LONELY
Phone a friend.
EATING OUT
Eat only half the amount, eat the best parts! Pack the leftovers of course.
SOCIAL PRESSURE
Just say
“NO thank you!!!!”
QUICK ENERGY
I think a better response would be for me to have a bath or to have a nap to rest up. Or just have a little tea to get me by….I’m taking to herbal teas as you can tell!
WINDING DOWN with dessert
(especially after company)
A better response would probably be to have a bath and relax and pray there….or have a herbal tea in front of the TV.
TASTE-TEST CALL!
I should leave the room, go to BR and spend time in prayer. Wait for “0”
JUST A LITTLE BITE!
Just turn away from the temptation as it will be a slippery slope! If I do take a little bite, just make sure it is savoured and STOP! Wait for “0” to enjoy more then a little bite.
I WANT TO EAT IT ALL!
Use a smaller plate at dinner. Use utensils. Fork down b/w bites. Sit down. Savour the food. Follow conscious eating tips.
MARCH - TW ch 9
March 9th:
Challenging experience exercise:
1.) Boarding school. It had it ups and downs. I felt fears and resentment at times. The experience nurtured me socially and has been used by God to make me into the person I am today.
2.) Moving back to Canada at 12 years old. I felt bitter and alone. As a result I made new friends, adjusted to Canada at a much earlier age then other MK friends of mine, which is a blessing in disguise!
3.) My daughter had Kawasaki Disease at age 3. It was a heart wrenching time and I cried out to God more then I ever have in my life as her life hung in the balance. As a result I experienced greater intimacy with God, saw prayers answered and can now empathize better with others in similar situations.
I am disappointed that I didn’t apply TW principles to my 6pm eating. I kind of knew I was stepping onto the slippery slope when I took a handful of popcorn. And it kind of just kept slipping from there. I am planning on printing up my list of “preparing for trials” to place on the fridge for future trials. I’d really love to apply these solutions.
Challenging experience exercise:
1.) Boarding school. It had it ups and downs. I felt fears and resentment at times. The experience nurtured me socially and has been used by God to make me into the person I am today.
2.) Moving back to Canada at 12 years old. I felt bitter and alone. As a result I made new friends, adjusted to Canada at a much earlier age then other MK friends of mine, which is a blessing in disguise!
3.) My daughter had Kawasaki Disease at age 3. It was a heart wrenching time and I cried out to God more then I ever have in my life as her life hung in the balance. As a result I experienced greater intimacy with God, saw prayers answered and can now empathize better with others in similar situations.
I am disappointed that I didn’t apply TW principles to my 6pm eating. I kind of knew I was stepping onto the slippery slope when I took a handful of popcorn. And it kind of just kept slipping from there. I am planning on printing up my list of “preparing for trials” to place on the fridge for future trials. I’d really love to apply these solutions.
MARCH - TW ch 8
March 8th:
Yeah! I had a full day of 0-5 eating! The last two days of reading have just really drove home to me what TW is all about. I have come to the conclusion I really wasn’t following much of TW at all the past month. I was following some hunger/fullness but not really applying all the concepts that TW has to offer. I’m feeling SOOOO excited again! I remember all the “aha” moments in November as I read the book daily. I’m back there again and learning so much about myself and really know this is the place to be! Praise God! I’m feeling very thankful!
What a powerful quote on p. 75 “As we surrender our hearts fully to His Spirit, we continue now to build in the strength of the Lord. He knows our hearts. He wants to give us His strength and He doesn’t expect us to succeed apart from Him.” I find this very encouraging!
Also, the verse in 2 Cor. 10:5 “we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” resonates with me too.
Some of my answers I could relate to (from the list of beliefs about food/eating/weight that participants had shared on p. 78):
* Chocolate makes me feel better.
* Once I eat one potato chip (or in my case one bite of cookie etc.) I won’t be able to stop.
* I always gain weight during the holidays.
* Losing weight is so difficult.
* I always gain weight back after I lose it.
Now the exercise the REALLY excited me the most today was the Planning for Trials Exercise. I think it is an AWESOME exercise that actually makes me feel quite empowered. I was talking with my husband, Jon, last night saying how it just feels like this whole weight issue/food has mastery over me and I know God wants nothing to master me except HIM! So, it is a challenge for me to find ways to deal with temptation. So, here are my answers to the "Planning for Trials Exercise" pg 81:
Trigger: Supper is ready, but I’m not hungry yet.
Emotions: I feel impatient, the pull of food is like a magnet.
Godly strategy: I could go to my BR (far away from the dinner table) and pray, do devos. Another option would be to have a cup of herbal tea and sit at the table and visit with the family.
Trigger: Eating out at a restaurant.
Emotions: I feel like I must clean my plate to get my $$’s worth.
Godly strategy: Eat only half the amount, eat the best parts! Pack the leftovers of course.
Trigger: Offered something when I’m not at “0”.
Emotions: I feel the magnetism toward food and also guilt if I say “no”.
Godly strategy: Just say “NO thank you!!!!”
Trigger: After company I usually dig into another helping of dessert in front of the TV.
Emotions: I feel the magnetism, the greed for food and very tired out wanting to relax.
Godly strategy: A better response would probably be to have a bath and relax and pray there….or have a herbal tea in front of the TV.
Trigger: Baked goodies are calling my name for a taste-test.
Emotions: I feel greed, impatience (“I want it NOW!”).
Godly strategy: I should leave the room, go to BR and spend tiem in prayer. Wait for “0”.
Trigger: I want to eat it ALL!!
Emotions: I feel GREEDY!!!
Godly strategy: I should leave the room, go to BR and spend tiem in prayer. Wait for “0”.
Trigger: I am tired out and just want to eat to get some extra energy or to just move on with the day.
Emotions: I feel tiredness, grumpiness, impatience.
Godly strategy: I think a better response would be for me to have a bath or to have a nap to rest up. Or just have a little tea to get me by….I’m taking to herbal teas as you can tell!
Yeah! I had a full day of 0-5 eating! The last two days of reading have just really drove home to me what TW is all about. I have come to the conclusion I really wasn’t following much of TW at all the past month. I was following some hunger/fullness but not really applying all the concepts that TW has to offer. I’m feeling SOOOO excited again! I remember all the “aha” moments in November as I read the book daily. I’m back there again and learning so much about myself and really know this is the place to be! Praise God! I’m feeling very thankful!
What a powerful quote on p. 75 “As we surrender our hearts fully to His Spirit, we continue now to build in the strength of the Lord. He knows our hearts. He wants to give us His strength and He doesn’t expect us to succeed apart from Him.” I find this very encouraging!
Also, the verse in 2 Cor. 10:5 “we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” resonates with me too.
Some of my answers I could relate to (from the list of beliefs about food/eating/weight that participants had shared on p. 78):
* Chocolate makes me feel better.
* Once I eat one potato chip (or in my case one bite of cookie etc.) I won’t be able to stop.
* I always gain weight during the holidays.
* Losing weight is so difficult.
* I always gain weight back after I lose it.
Now the exercise the REALLY excited me the most today was the Planning for Trials Exercise. I think it is an AWESOME exercise that actually makes me feel quite empowered. I was talking with my husband, Jon, last night saying how it just feels like this whole weight issue/food has mastery over me and I know God wants nothing to master me except HIM! So, it is a challenge for me to find ways to deal with temptation. So, here are my answers to the "Planning for Trials Exercise" pg 81:
Trigger: Supper is ready, but I’m not hungry yet.
Emotions: I feel impatient, the pull of food is like a magnet.
Godly strategy: I could go to my BR (far away from the dinner table) and pray, do devos. Another option would be to have a cup of herbal tea and sit at the table and visit with the family.
Trigger: Eating out at a restaurant.
Emotions: I feel like I must clean my plate to get my $$’s worth.
Godly strategy: Eat only half the amount, eat the best parts! Pack the leftovers of course.
Trigger: Offered something when I’m not at “0”.
Emotions: I feel the magnetism toward food and also guilt if I say “no”.
Godly strategy: Just say “NO thank you!!!!”
Trigger: After company I usually dig into another helping of dessert in front of the TV.
Emotions: I feel the magnetism, the greed for food and very tired out wanting to relax.
Godly strategy: A better response would probably be to have a bath and relax and pray there….or have a herbal tea in front of the TV.
Trigger: Baked goodies are calling my name for a taste-test.
Emotions: I feel greed, impatience (“I want it NOW!”).
Godly strategy: I should leave the room, go to BR and spend tiem in prayer. Wait for “0”.
Trigger: I want to eat it ALL!!
Emotions: I feel GREEDY!!!
Godly strategy: I should leave the room, go to BR and spend tiem in prayer. Wait for “0”.
Trigger: I am tired out and just want to eat to get some extra energy or to just move on with the day.
Emotions: I feel tiredness, grumpiness, impatience.
Godly strategy: I think a better response would be for me to have a bath or to have a nap to rest up. Or just have a little tea to get me by….I’m taking to herbal teas as you can tell!
MARCH - TW ch 7
March 7th:
I’m not sure if I’m an emotional eater. I don’t need ANY emotions to trigger eating!!! If there is food tempting me it will most likely master me and be eaten regardless of emotions. The emotional eating exercise didn’t resonate with me because I can’t picture myself eating just because of these emotions. If I did feel like eating I know what I’d reach for is something sugary. However I do know that being tired is definitely a time of weakness for me. I’ll grab anything. I just can’t pinpoint specific foods with specific emotions…except to say that I really gravitate towards sugar always.
I can relate to the “tourist eating” and “eating because it’s there, and I want it now” listed on p. 70. Those are probably my main areas of weakness.
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Phil 4:13
“Rather than condemn or reject, observe and correct.” P. 73
A reminder of what fat machinery is: Conditioned or habitual responses, Beliefs, Past Stories, Failures.
I’m not sure if I’m an emotional eater. I don’t need ANY emotions to trigger eating!!! If there is food tempting me it will most likely master me and be eaten regardless of emotions. The emotional eating exercise didn’t resonate with me because I can’t picture myself eating just because of these emotions. If I did feel like eating I know what I’d reach for is something sugary. However I do know that being tired is definitely a time of weakness for me. I’ll grab anything. I just can’t pinpoint specific foods with specific emotions…except to say that I really gravitate towards sugar always.
I can relate to the “tourist eating” and “eating because it’s there, and I want it now” listed on p. 70. Those are probably my main areas of weakness.
“I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Phil 4:13
“Rather than condemn or reject, observe and correct.” P. 73
A reminder of what fat machinery is: Conditioned or habitual responses, Beliefs, Past Stories, Failures.
MARCH - TW ch 6
March 6th:
Note to self:
Fat Machinery is:
* Conditioned or habitual responses
* Beliefs
* Past Stories
* Failures
I can relate to this (in regards to the bathroom scale) on p.59
“Most of us can relate to one of three scenarios: First, you hop on the scale and it seays you have gained weight. Depressed, you go to the kitchen and drown your sorrows in a megabreakfast. Second, you hop on the scale and it says you have lost weight. You are so excited you celebrate by eating a hot fudge sundae. In the third scenario you avoid the scale like the plague because you know very well that your weight is creeping up and you don’t want to face the awful truth. Has your scale become a club of condemnation? Is it an idol? Does your bathroom scale determine whether you have a good day or a bad day?”
I don’t quite know what to do about this however! I find the scale is a good accountability tool when it doesn’t hold my emotions hostage. I also find that I tend to think I weigh more then I actually do. Sometimes I’m right on the mark for what I actually weigh. Rarely do I weigh more then I think I weigh.
Note to self:
Fat Machinery is:
* Conditioned or habitual responses
* Beliefs
* Past Stories
* Failures
I can relate to this (in regards to the bathroom scale) on p.59
“Most of us can relate to one of three scenarios: First, you hop on the scale and it seays you have gained weight. Depressed, you go to the kitchen and drown your sorrows in a megabreakfast. Second, you hop on the scale and it says you have lost weight. You are so excited you celebrate by eating a hot fudge sundae. In the third scenario you avoid the scale like the plague because you know very well that your weight is creeping up and you don’t want to face the awful truth. Has your scale become a club of condemnation? Is it an idol? Does your bathroom scale determine whether you have a good day or a bad day?”
I don’t quite know what to do about this however! I find the scale is a good accountability tool when it doesn’t hold my emotions hostage. I also find that I tend to think I weigh more then I actually do. Sometimes I’m right on the mark for what I actually weigh. Rarely do I weigh more then I think I weigh.
MARCH - TW ch 5
March 5th:
Today got to an off-track start because I had company over and ate when I wasn’t hungry…. I could have made better choices by suppertime, but didn’t.
Tomorrow is a new day. I’m looking forward to getting back on track. Looking at the choices I made both yesterday and today, applying observation and correction techniques….
Yesterday at 3pm I really should have held off on eating more then one bite. I know I could have done better. Not beating myself up, but probably should have walked far away from those cookies, prayed maybe in my BR and then moved forward.
Today, I don’t feel so bad about the morning cin bun, but then I ate another one as soon as my company left and then I didn’t wait for hunger at supper. The main thing I wish I’d done differently was wait for hunger at suppertime. Even if I was making a “poor” choice of another cin. Bun I could at least have been hungry!!!! And I know the cin. Bun would have been waiting for me as I gave my husband instructions to help himself to them but to just make sure one is left for me!
I haven’t yet applied the mirror, mirror exercise. I plan on doing that when I have a more leisurely start to the day, maybe on Friday morning. This morning was a little chaotic. Actually the whole day was pretty crazy!
I must say I really appreciate the hunger#’s. I am glad I’m figuring it out as it really does make me feel differently then I did with Weigh Down as it was all about just hunger(0), satisfaction (5) and overeating (10). There weren’t all these varying degrees to assess. So, I appreciate the graciousness of this approach.
Today got to an off-track start because I had company over and ate when I wasn’t hungry…. I could have made better choices by suppertime, but didn’t.
Tomorrow is a new day. I’m looking forward to getting back on track. Looking at the choices I made both yesterday and today, applying observation and correction techniques….
Yesterday at 3pm I really should have held off on eating more then one bite. I know I could have done better. Not beating myself up, but probably should have walked far away from those cookies, prayed maybe in my BR and then moved forward.
Today, I don’t feel so bad about the morning cin bun, but then I ate another one as soon as my company left and then I didn’t wait for hunger at supper. The main thing I wish I’d done differently was wait for hunger at suppertime. Even if I was making a “poor” choice of another cin. Bun I could at least have been hungry!!!! And I know the cin. Bun would have been waiting for me as I gave my husband instructions to help himself to them but to just make sure one is left for me!
I haven’t yet applied the mirror, mirror exercise. I plan on doing that when I have a more leisurely start to the day, maybe on Friday morning. This morning was a little chaotic. Actually the whole day was pretty crazy!
I must say I really appreciate the hunger#’s. I am glad I’m figuring it out as it really does make me feel differently then I did with Weigh Down as it was all about just hunger(0), satisfaction (5) and overeating (10). There weren’t all these varying degrees to assess. So, I appreciate the graciousness of this approach.
MARCH - TW ch 4
March 4th:
This was a really good chapter for me. It opened my eyes once again to my own tendency to be on the “path of my performance”. I tend to be legalistic at times and also beat myself up as I fail since I focus on trying so hard (and fail miserably time after time!) and not so much relying on God’s power that is available. I try to rely on God’s power, but somehow am not doing it right! I think I just keep on trying to do things my own way and take over the driver’s seat. In the process my SELF becomes the focus rather then GOD.
I would really like to apply the teaching of how to observe and correct more effectively. What I gleaned on pg 39, in the midst of temptation, is to:
STOP
OBSERVE
CALL OUT TO GOD
CORRECT AND REPENT
EXPERIENCE GRACE AND FORGIVENESS
MOVE FORWARD
I need to ask myself more often “What could I have done differently to produce a better outcome?” And I really need to call out to God more frequently in this whole process. I need to heed the voice of the Holy Spirit. And call out for help!
This was a really good chapter for me. It opened my eyes once again to my own tendency to be on the “path of my performance”. I tend to be legalistic at times and also beat myself up as I fail since I focus on trying so hard (and fail miserably time after time!) and not so much relying on God’s power that is available. I try to rely on God’s power, but somehow am not doing it right! I think I just keep on trying to do things my own way and take over the driver’s seat. In the process my SELF becomes the focus rather then GOD.
I would really like to apply the teaching of how to observe and correct more effectively. What I gleaned on pg 39, in the midst of temptation, is to:
STOP
OBSERVE
CALL OUT TO GOD
CORRECT AND REPENT
EXPERIENCE GRACE AND FORGIVENESS
MOVE FORWARD
I need to ask myself more often “What could I have done differently to produce a better outcome?” And I really need to call out to God more frequently in this whole process. I need to heed the voice of the Holy Spirit. And call out for help!
MARCH - TW ch 3
March 3rd:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Cor. 10:31
What an awesome verse! Since I have determined my life’s purpose is to shine for Jesus, glorifying God, evangelize the lost and equip the Saints…..THIS verse really is very applicable. I often seek to glorify God in every way BUT my eating! So this verse is really an awesome thought to meditate on.
The goals I zoned in on are
#1 To be 160 lbs by the end of the month (currently 172 lbs - we’ll see if that’s possible!)
#2 Exercise 3x a week (20 min. each time)
#3 Clean up our storage space under the stairs and also the laundry room.
Loved the prayer on pg. 34….definitely is mine…
Dear Lord, thank You that I can set godly goals and have Your strength to draw on in order to accomplish them. I pray that You will help me persevere. I want to bring You honor and to cause others to hunger and thirst for you as they see Your glory reflected in me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Cor. 10:31
What an awesome verse! Since I have determined my life’s purpose is to shine for Jesus, glorifying God, evangelize the lost and equip the Saints…..THIS verse really is very applicable. I often seek to glorify God in every way BUT my eating! So this verse is really an awesome thought to meditate on.
The goals I zoned in on are
#1 To be 160 lbs by the end of the month (currently 172 lbs - we’ll see if that’s possible!)
#2 Exercise 3x a week (20 min. each time)
#3 Clean up our storage space under the stairs and also the laundry room.
Loved the prayer on pg. 34….definitely is mine…
Dear Lord, thank You that I can set godly goals and have Your strength to draw on in order to accomplish them. I pray that You will help me persevere. I want to bring You honor and to cause others to hunger and thirst for you as they see Your glory reflected in me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
MARCH - TW ch 2
March 2nd:
I am not going to let past failures hinder me this time. It’s time to change. Thank you, Lord, for your amazing creativity in ALL creation. Thank you for loving me.
I am not going to let past failures hinder me this time. It’s time to change. Thank you, Lord, for your amazing creativity in ALL creation. Thank you for loving me.
MARCH - TW ch 1
March 1st
“You will begin to see that you can become authentically ‘thin within’, from your heart and soul outward. This external change will reflect the miracle that is taking place in a heart set free.” pg 5
This is what I need! My action steps are to stop eating while reading (reduce distractions so I can eat in present time more effectively). I need to put down my fork between bites. I need to savor the food. I need to stop at #5 (maybe even #4).
Dear Lord, thank you that You have a plan for me that includes a hope and a future. I want to discover what those plans are. I have struggled with food and eating and my body for so many years. Lord help me to follow You as I long for the changes You will work deep within me. I trust that this is the way You have chosen for me for the remainder of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This prayer really spoke to me and became my prayer too.
“You will begin to see that you can become authentically ‘thin within’, from your heart and soul outward. This external change will reflect the miracle that is taking place in a heart set free.” pg 5
This is what I need! My action steps are to stop eating while reading (reduce distractions so I can eat in present time more effectively). I need to put down my fork between bites. I need to savor the food. I need to stop at #5 (maybe even #4).
Dear Lord, thank you that You have a plan for me that includes a hope and a future. I want to discover what those plans are. I have struggled with food and eating and my body for so many years. Lord help me to follow You as I long for the changes You will work deep within me. I trust that this is the way You have chosen for me for the remainder of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This prayer really spoke to me and became my prayer too.
MARCH - TW Intro
February 29th (introduction):
I know this isn't March, but I started the TW book again today!
Well, today I started back into the book. I think my goal is to read a chapter daily as it will help me stay focussed better. I’m really still struggling so much with my eating. I was talking with my daughter today about how God promises to provide a way out when feeling tempted to sin… I encouraged her to find the “exit” at these times, even if it was the “narrow path”. It was a good reminder to me to find the exit that God is providing each and every time I’m tempted. I need to pray about that.
I read the intro and once again am hit by this:
Are you ready to be set free….
From the compelling call of food? YES! Feels magnetic at times!
From reacting to the demands of your impulses that say, “I want it and I want it now”? YES! Once again magnetic!
From past failures? YES! This one is really weighing me down right now.
Are you ready….
To respond to the high calling of a God who loves you and longs to secure you in His sovereignty? YES! I need to really rest in God’s love.
To live the abundant life? Christ in you, the hope of glory. YES! Definitely want to experience the abundant life!
YES YES YES YES YES! To every one of those! I just can’t believe how difficult it is to have victory with this temptation! It is just crazy how many times I have tried and tried and tried again. Very frustrating actually!
The prayer at the end of the intro really spoke to me and is my prayer as well at this time.
Dear God,Thank You for being with me as I begin this journey. I must admit I am a bit hesitant about this process because I have ‘started’ and ‘stopped’ so many times before. I pray that I might see You as never before and be set free from my heartaches over food, eating and my body. Lord, I know diets or other things I have tried have not worked in the long run. I know You have something so much better for me, so I invite You to show me truth. Open my eyes and release me from the chaines that bind me. Open my heart unto You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
My eating today was not in the zone, but was okay considering. I didn’t feel I was very “greedy” for food today.
I know this isn't March, but I started the TW book again today!
Well, today I started back into the book. I think my goal is to read a chapter daily as it will help me stay focussed better. I’m really still struggling so much with my eating. I was talking with my daughter today about how God promises to provide a way out when feeling tempted to sin… I encouraged her to find the “exit” at these times, even if it was the “narrow path”. It was a good reminder to me to find the exit that God is providing each and every time I’m tempted. I need to pray about that.
I read the intro and once again am hit by this:
Are you ready to be set free….
From the compelling call of food? YES! Feels magnetic at times!
From reacting to the demands of your impulses that say, “I want it and I want it now”? YES! Once again magnetic!
From past failures? YES! This one is really weighing me down right now.
Are you ready….
To respond to the high calling of a God who loves you and longs to secure you in His sovereignty? YES! I need to really rest in God’s love.
To live the abundant life? Christ in you, the hope of glory. YES! Definitely want to experience the abundant life!
YES YES YES YES YES! To every one of those! I just can’t believe how difficult it is to have victory with this temptation! It is just crazy how many times I have tried and tried and tried again. Very frustrating actually!
The prayer at the end of the intro really spoke to me and is my prayer as well at this time.
Dear God,Thank You for being with me as I begin this journey. I must admit I am a bit hesitant about this process because I have ‘started’ and ‘stopped’ so many times before. I pray that I might see You as never before and be set free from my heartaches over food, eating and my body. Lord, I know diets or other things I have tried have not worked in the long run. I know You have something so much better for me, so I invite You to show me truth. Open my eyes and release me from the chaines that bind me. Open my heart unto You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
My eating today was not in the zone, but was okay considering. I didn’t feel I was very “greedy” for food today.
FEBRUARY - Getting started!
Getting started following "Thin Within" by Judy & Arthur Halliday
I have been keeping a journal since I started this journey and will try to catch up to where I am today in my journey!
February 3rd:
Well, I am determined this is it. I want to lose this weight once and for all. I am sickened by my greed for food, the power/mastery that food has in my life and the lack of self-discipline I have. I know and believe God can do miracles and by His Holy Spirit change me from the inside out. I want to surrender to Him. My goal is to keep a daily journal in this folder to be a reminder for myself in my journey, and also help me keep a degree of accountability with others. My present goal in terms of food records is to have a record of my eating right on my fridge (in plain view of my husband). I know this has helped me in the past, keeping track of whether I'm hungry or not at each eating occasion along with whether or not I have exercised. I want to get back to this. Also, I really want to have a more balanced diet and want to make sure each eating occasion has more value. A verse that really has spoken to me is:
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
1 Corinthians 10:31
What does it mean "for the glory of God"? I think it means that even in the most simple, daily tasks/goings-on God wants us to glorify Him.....and I think the way I can do this is being obedient to Him. God has impressed on me that obedience is reflected in:
1.) following hunger/fullness cues that He has gifted me with
2.) making wiser more balanced food choices.
Ultimately that means not allowing anything to master me but Christ.....and I know that my greed for certain foods, particularily sugary ones, or even just ANY food when I'm not hungry DOES at times does take a higher place then Christ and master me. I want this to change in my life.
February 4th:
Well, today was a start….not a perfect start, but a start all the same! And I don’t feel too discouraged. I know it always takes a bit to really consistently wait for hunger… A couple things I liked about the way the day went. First, I felt like I ate so much healthier. I enjoyed the foods I ate. I felt I paid fairly good attention to the food/pace I was eating. And I was pleased that I waited for hunger in the morning. That’s not always an easy thing to do.
February 5th:
Today went fairly well. Still ate a bit more in one sitting then I should have, but I think it all worked out.
February 6th:
Well, today was a difficult day for me as I was completely low on energy and tired as I’d been up all night with my sick daughter. I started the day working on just a little bit of sleep. This is always my weakest point for overeating I find. I didn’t wait for hunger for the majority of the day, but was thankful (and surprised) when I got hungry at suppertime. This was very encouraging to me. I made healthy choices for the most part though. And I didn’t eat past a #5 (with the exception of supper). So, that was good too.
February 7th:
Tuesday has been my best day so far… Anyways, I really feel pleased that I have been continuing to make healthy food choices. That’s a step in the right direction.
February 9th - 11th:
Well, so far this week has gone really BAD! I have not been on track at all! But I am going to keep plugging away. I think one of the keys to my failure is weekend laziness or out of routine issues. My other big downfall is definitely when I bake. I love to bake though and am not sure how to manage this one and eat in moderation. I know I have to figure this one out though. The clincher this weekend was a chocolate cake I baked, and then came the buns and then came the banana bread and then the sugar cookies... Once I`m off track it`s REALLY hard to get back on. Anyways, I know the Lord forgives and desires me to keep plugging away! Not giving up here! It`s just one bad week! I`ve got lots more good ones to come.
February 14th:
Well, that doesn’t look like a very good eating day! Anyways, it was a special day and kind of hard to be on track, particularily since I didn’t start the day hungry. Would have helped to have been hungry for breakfast!
February 17th:
I stepped on the scale and was mortified to see 173lbs! Ugh! What is going on! I just can’t seem to get things back on track… Feels like a useless battle at times…. Sigh
February 19th:
That brings me to Tuesday… I stepped on the scale this morning and was 171lbs. Quite discouraging actually. I know I’m not in the “zone” yet. Anyways, I was hungry earlier then usual this morning which was encouraging. I ended up rumbling at 8am which is great. I had a small bowl of cereal. I also did my cardio of 20 minutes jump rope (do 1200 jumps) .
Well, I’m really thankful for how the day went. Yeah, each day I followed my hunger and fullness! That feels REALLY good! I don’t know when the last time was that I did that….probably not since November. Praise God for this small victory! My plan is to fast tomorrow until supper as it is our churches’ day of fasting and prayer. So, I’m guessing I’ll have another day “on the wagon”!
February 20th:
Well today was a day of fasting and prayer….so eating wasn’t really an issue! What an awesome day of time spent with the Lord it was! And in the evening I had such a wonderful bible study with two new believers. It was all about God’s character being the foundation of our faith. I knew it was going to be a pretty big study for these ladies and God has been speaking in so many different ways on this topic to me—through Sunday morning sermon, through both bible study guides I’m working through etc…..all in one week! It was really awesome to unpack it with these ladies and I know that the time of prayer and fasting was used by God to help focus my prayer for this study. So PTL!
I rumbled MANY times throughout the day, starting at 8:30am . Pretty much rumbled every 2 hours through the day…..interesting observation I must say! Something for me to remember in the future. I also got my cardio in today, skipping rope for my regular 20 minutes (1200 jumps). So, that was good too.
February 21st:
I was determined to have another on-track day, so as I headed out to the school to volunteer I just brought along a yogurt and plastic spoon in case I got hungry. Didn’t end up eating it despite rumbling at 10:30am as it wasn’t convenient…
February 23rd:
I’m definitely disappointed with how today went. I started out the day with good intentions and did wait for hunger, but then as I did some experimental cooking I taste-tested food which kind of lead down a slippery slope.
I’m feeling a little anxious about tomorrow as meals are a bit more structured tomorrow….eating out for lunch and supper (not in a restaurant but elsewhere). So, it will be a little more difficult to time eating when I’m hungry. If I start out right, being hungry prior to lunch I should be okay. I know that hot dog, chips and juice are on the menu for lunch….so I’ll try to keep the amount down, maybe skip the chips and aim for ½ the hot dog. We’ll see. Then in the evening it’s a potluck at church….that one will be a little more difficult to control the amount of food. I will need to be very careful tomorrow to make sure this weekend doesn’t turn into the same as last! My aim for weight by the end of next week is down to 167 lbs. Hopefully I’ll turn the corner on that and get back to that 165 lbs really soon, then start working on new weight to lose! Weight loss is SOOOO hard! It’s crazy!
February 23rd - 28th:
Not a very good week in regards to eating…..
I have been keeping a journal since I started this journey and will try to catch up to where I am today in my journey!
February 3rd:
Well, I am determined this is it. I want to lose this weight once and for all. I am sickened by my greed for food, the power/mastery that food has in my life and the lack of self-discipline I have. I know and believe God can do miracles and by His Holy Spirit change me from the inside out. I want to surrender to Him. My goal is to keep a daily journal in this folder to be a reminder for myself in my journey, and also help me keep a degree of accountability with others. My present goal in terms of food records is to have a record of my eating right on my fridge (in plain view of my husband). I know this has helped me in the past, keeping track of whether I'm hungry or not at each eating occasion along with whether or not I have exercised. I want to get back to this. Also, I really want to have a more balanced diet and want to make sure each eating occasion has more value. A verse that really has spoken to me is:
"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
1 Corinthians 10:31
What does it mean "for the glory of God"? I think it means that even in the most simple, daily tasks/goings-on God wants us to glorify Him.....and I think the way I can do this is being obedient to Him. God has impressed on me that obedience is reflected in:
1.) following hunger/fullness cues that He has gifted me with
2.) making wiser more balanced food choices.
Ultimately that means not allowing anything to master me but Christ.....and I know that my greed for certain foods, particularily sugary ones, or even just ANY food when I'm not hungry DOES at times does take a higher place then Christ and master me. I want this to change in my life.
February 4th:
Well, today was a start….not a perfect start, but a start all the same! And I don’t feel too discouraged. I know it always takes a bit to really consistently wait for hunger… A couple things I liked about the way the day went. First, I felt like I ate so much healthier. I enjoyed the foods I ate. I felt I paid fairly good attention to the food/pace I was eating. And I was pleased that I waited for hunger in the morning. That’s not always an easy thing to do.
February 5th:
Today went fairly well. Still ate a bit more in one sitting then I should have, but I think it all worked out.
February 6th:
Well, today was a difficult day for me as I was completely low on energy and tired as I’d been up all night with my sick daughter. I started the day working on just a little bit of sleep. This is always my weakest point for overeating I find. I didn’t wait for hunger for the majority of the day, but was thankful (and surprised) when I got hungry at suppertime. This was very encouraging to me. I made healthy choices for the most part though. And I didn’t eat past a #5 (with the exception of supper). So, that was good too.
February 7th:
Tuesday has been my best day so far… Anyways, I really feel pleased that I have been continuing to make healthy food choices. That’s a step in the right direction.
February 9th - 11th:
Well, so far this week has gone really BAD! I have not been on track at all! But I am going to keep plugging away. I think one of the keys to my failure is weekend laziness or out of routine issues. My other big downfall is definitely when I bake. I love to bake though and am not sure how to manage this one and eat in moderation. I know I have to figure this one out though. The clincher this weekend was a chocolate cake I baked, and then came the buns and then came the banana bread and then the sugar cookies... Once I`m off track it`s REALLY hard to get back on. Anyways, I know the Lord forgives and desires me to keep plugging away! Not giving up here! It`s just one bad week! I`ve got lots more good ones to come.
February 14th:
Well, that doesn’t look like a very good eating day! Anyways, it was a special day and kind of hard to be on track, particularily since I didn’t start the day hungry. Would have helped to have been hungry for breakfast!
February 17th:
I stepped on the scale and was mortified to see 173lbs! Ugh! What is going on! I just can’t seem to get things back on track… Feels like a useless battle at times…. Sigh
February 19th:
That brings me to Tuesday… I stepped on the scale this morning and was 171lbs. Quite discouraging actually. I know I’m not in the “zone” yet. Anyways, I was hungry earlier then usual this morning which was encouraging. I ended up rumbling at 8am which is great. I had a small bowl of cereal. I also did my cardio of 20 minutes jump rope (do 1200 jumps) .
Well, I’m really thankful for how the day went. Yeah, each day I followed my hunger and fullness! That feels REALLY good! I don’t know when the last time was that I did that….probably not since November. Praise God for this small victory! My plan is to fast tomorrow until supper as it is our churches’ day of fasting and prayer. So, I’m guessing I’ll have another day “on the wagon”!
February 20th:
Well today was a day of fasting and prayer….so eating wasn’t really an issue! What an awesome day of time spent with the Lord it was! And in the evening I had such a wonderful bible study with two new believers. It was all about God’s character being the foundation of our faith. I knew it was going to be a pretty big study for these ladies and God has been speaking in so many different ways on this topic to me—through Sunday morning sermon, through both bible study guides I’m working through etc…..all in one week! It was really awesome to unpack it with these ladies and I know that the time of prayer and fasting was used by God to help focus my prayer for this study. So PTL!
I rumbled MANY times throughout the day, starting at 8:30am . Pretty much rumbled every 2 hours through the day…..interesting observation I must say! Something for me to remember in the future. I also got my cardio in today, skipping rope for my regular 20 minutes (1200 jumps). So, that was good too.
February 21st:
I was determined to have another on-track day, so as I headed out to the school to volunteer I just brought along a yogurt and plastic spoon in case I got hungry. Didn’t end up eating it despite rumbling at 10:30am as it wasn’t convenient…
February 23rd:
I’m definitely disappointed with how today went. I started out the day with good intentions and did wait for hunger, but then as I did some experimental cooking I taste-tested food which kind of lead down a slippery slope.
I’m feeling a little anxious about tomorrow as meals are a bit more structured tomorrow….eating out for lunch and supper (not in a restaurant but elsewhere). So, it will be a little more difficult to time eating when I’m hungry. If I start out right, being hungry prior to lunch I should be okay. I know that hot dog, chips and juice are on the menu for lunch….so I’ll try to keep the amount down, maybe skip the chips and aim for ½ the hot dog. We’ll see. Then in the evening it’s a potluck at church….that one will be a little more difficult to control the amount of food. I will need to be very careful tomorrow to make sure this weekend doesn’t turn into the same as last! My aim for weight by the end of next week is down to 167 lbs. Hopefully I’ll turn the corner on that and get back to that 165 lbs really soon, then start working on new weight to lose! Weight loss is SOOOO hard! It’s crazy!
February 23rd - 28th:
Not a very good week in regards to eating…..
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