Day 5: Blessings Ahead

  My schedule got a bit crazy last week so I paused on the devotional.  I read Day 5 everyday, just so I could keep it fresh in my mind.

You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work
(James 1:3-4A)

  In this food related trial, what is the blessing we can receive by living a healthy lifestyle? The answer is in the question! First off, being healthy.  Eating right and exercising are two very good things we can do to keep our physical body in tip top shape. And they most likely will help us live longer so we can enjoy life to the fullest.

  My other goal is to teaching my girls to make health choices.  I grew up in the environment that everything goes, all the time and however much you wanted.  Its a wonder I didn't grow up with more of a weight problem!  I am more strict with what my girls eat than myself, but I would rather them not have my struggle.
  In the devotional she talked about signposts along the way that help us persevere.  

1. PROTECTION - "I might not be able to see the blessing right now, but this trial may be a protection, shielding me from something in the future that I may not see."
2. PROVISION - Things that you would have never found had you not started down this pathway; a camaraderie with an accountability friend, a love for new foods (hummus, avocados, spinach). My new obsession is with Jillian Michaels podcast. Great to listen to and keeps me mindful and motivated. Check it out!
3. PROCESS - To make lasting changes, its a step-by-step process. There are no short-cuts or quick fixes. 

"Most importantly, I've realized this isn't as much about losing the weight as it is gaining truth --- the truth of who I am in Christ and how I am made for more than this constant self-defeating struggle. its the truth that reminds me a scale can measure my physical body but never my worth as a woman. And its the truth that God loves me the way I am, but He loves me too much to leave me stuck in a place of defeat." (Made to Crave Devotional)

  Last week I stayed active and even went for a run. I measured it later and realized I ran a 5k for fun! Boy oh boy was I sore the next day, but I was quite proud of my accomplishment.  One of my previous posts mentions my very busy Saturday. I am also proud to say I went home quite happy with myself. I had a salad at the first buffet and enjoyed Hawaiian Pizza at the second.  

  Its a new week and we have nice summer weather coming our way. My goals this week:

1. Stay active. I have a huge landscaping project planned to help me keep this goal. 
2. Say NO to sugar! I have cookies in the house that I might have to toss if I can't say no.
3. Lose 2lb. By the end of the week I will announce my weight. I am praying I reach my goal.

Dear Lord, we need your wisdom today. Help us to pause and think about the choices we make, from the smallest to the biggest. We want to please you with our walk today. Amen.