Transformation

Do you ever get tired of doing the same things over and over and getting the same results? There have been seasons where I have tried, over and over again, in my own resolve and strength, to eat a healthy diet. I have found myself falling and failing time and again. I can easily get so discouraged when I falter that I just stop trying all together and eat whatever I want. I figure I'll fail anyways, so why even bother trying in the first place?

Partially, it's true. I can't follow a perfect diet 100% of the time. There's no way I can never let sugar, gluten, dairy, or you name it, touch my lips. What a restrictive way that it is to live anyways. Some time ago I decided to take down my list of restrictive guidelines that I had posted on my fridge. In their place I decided to hang up scriptures instead that speak of honoring God with our bodies and minds.

I believe that true, lasting change, and even physical transformation begins with a change of mindset. What if it's not about getting thin or even getting healthy, but about choosing to honor God and this temple He has given me? What if the focus is on running to God rather than running to food when I crave comfort or security? If my heart motivation changes, then my choices will follow. Maybe it's not about food for you. But perhaps you too have been trying, in your own strength to make a change in a certain area... and find yourself repeatedly failing.

Yes, I want to stay healthy and active. Maybe you're in the same boat as me. Or you are trying to create lasting, positive changes but find that you just can't seem to make it stick. Watch what happens when our bigger desire than our earthly pursuits becomes to honor and glorify God in whatever we do. While I long to be fit and healthy, my stronger desire has become to glorify God with this body He has given me. And I know I cannot do it in my own strength. I've already tried and failed. Thankfully, God has given us the strength and ability to say no to the things that are not beneficial to us and the courage to say yes to what feeds our body and soul.

Scripture:

• "Whatever you eat or drink, do all for the glory of God." ( 1 Corinthians 10:31)

Question to ponder:

• What area of your life do you need to hand the reins over to God?

Action step to take:

• Think about a habit or goal you have been trying to achieve in your own strength. Choose a scripture to post and meditate on that will remind you to lean on God, rather than yourself, in this particular area.