Psalm 1:1-3 "Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers" (NIV).
Verse 3 of Psalm 1:1-3 should look familiar. It is rather like verse 8 of Jeremiah 17:7-8, which we looked at in our previous devotion. These verses, that open the Book of Psalms, describe the "blessed" man in terms of what he does not do, what he does, and what the result is if he follows through (lining up himself/herself with the Word of God).
Let's look at what a blessed man/woman does not do, as expressed in the Amplified Version. "Blessed (Happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather" (Psalm 1:1, Amplified). It matters with whom you associate (in strong friendship) and "follow" (in character and manner of living).
If you follow the "do" parts of the Bible, you won't even have to be concerned about the "don't" parts. "But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night" (Psalm 1:2, Amplified). Does that sound familiar?
We've already seen that to be "blessed" means to be "happy, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable," and that is reinforced by the result of following the "don't part" (v.1) and the "do part" (v. 2). "And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity]" (Psalm 1:3, Amplified).
If you desire to prosper in all you do, be a "firmly planted" tree, allow the Holy Spirit and the Word to "tend" you, and watch your life bear "fruit in its season" (i.e., when the time is right).
What this has to do with weight loss: Sometimes, after weight-loss surgery, you cannot associate with the same people you did before. Sometimes your surgery results change the way "friends" see you and react to you. Your surgery will change you, definitely, hopefully all for the better. Relationships may go through a time of adjustment. That's all right. Work on them. If, however, there is a friend who is not supportive, who, rather, tries to sabotage your weight-loss journey, be honest about what you need from him/her, and if he/she cannot or will not change, you may have to let go of that friendship. I know these issues are tough, but your True Friend, Jesus, will help you through them, if you let Him.
Confession:
I'm careful with whom I associate, choosing to spend my time learning from God's Word, and the result is that I am blessed and prosperous in all that I do.
Showing posts with label weight-loss surgery. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weight-loss surgery. Show all posts
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #127 [Deep roots]
Jeremiah 17:7-8 "Blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit" (NLT).
In the two verses prior to Jeremiah 17:7-8, God says that if a person trusts in man rather than God, he is cursed. Instead of prospering, that man will wither away like a desert bush. That man will be unfruitful, sooner or later.
A righteous person is blessed because his/her "confidence" and "trust" is in God, rather than self, another person, or even a thing (like one's job). A righteous person will flourish like a tree planted by the water, with roots that go deep, directly into the water.
The picture seems perfect, doesn't it. It's not, of course, and those difficulties are represented figuratively by "heat" and "drought." Even though "heat" and "drought" circumstances may come, the righteous person will not react with worry or fear.
Because the righteous person refuses to worry or be afraid, God promises that he/she will continue to prosper. Even when it seems to go against the circumstances (heat, drought), the righteous person's "leaves say green, and they never stop producing fruit."
When circumstances come, that present the opportunity to either trust God or worry, which do you tend to do? God blesses the one who trusts in Him, for God has proven Himself trustworthy.
Righteous one, when you are tempted to give in to fear or worry, think back to the times that God "came through for you," and praise Him that He will do it again! With every praise, with every determined thought of "I trust You," your "roots" go deeper and you will "produce fruit," even when you do not see a drop of rain!
What this has to do with weight loss: I have been amazed at the stories I've read, of those who have suffered post-weight-loss surgery complications. The ones whom I most admire are resilient and attribute their resiliency to a deep, abiding faith and trust in the Lord. They have learned that their "heat" and "drought" difficulties have an expiration date, and they patiently wait the Lord's move in that regard. If you are that person, dear reader, please know that I'm praying for you. If you are struggling, unable to trust in the Lord, please know that I'm praying for you, too, that you will come to know that He is worthy of your trust.
Confession:
No matter the circumstances that come my way, I will trust and put my confidence in God, for He has proven Himself trustworthy. Because I trust in the Lord, I am blessed.
In the two verses prior to Jeremiah 17:7-8, God says that if a person trusts in man rather than God, he is cursed. Instead of prospering, that man will wither away like a desert bush. That man will be unfruitful, sooner or later.
A righteous person is blessed because his/her "confidence" and "trust" is in God, rather than self, another person, or even a thing (like one's job). A righteous person will flourish like a tree planted by the water, with roots that go deep, directly into the water.
The picture seems perfect, doesn't it. It's not, of course, and those difficulties are represented figuratively by "heat" and "drought." Even though "heat" and "drought" circumstances may come, the righteous person will not react with worry or fear.
Because the righteous person refuses to worry or be afraid, God promises that he/she will continue to prosper. Even when it seems to go against the circumstances (heat, drought), the righteous person's "leaves say green, and they never stop producing fruit."
When circumstances come, that present the opportunity to either trust God or worry, which do you tend to do? God blesses the one who trusts in Him, for God has proven Himself trustworthy.
Righteous one, when you are tempted to give in to fear or worry, think back to the times that God "came through for you," and praise Him that He will do it again! With every praise, with every determined thought of "I trust You," your "roots" go deeper and you will "produce fruit," even when you do not see a drop of rain!
What this has to do with weight loss: I have been amazed at the stories I've read, of those who have suffered post-weight-loss surgery complications. The ones whom I most admire are resilient and attribute their resiliency to a deep, abiding faith and trust in the Lord. They have learned that their "heat" and "drought" difficulties have an expiration date, and they patiently wait the Lord's move in that regard. If you are that person, dear reader, please know that I'm praying for you. If you are struggling, unable to trust in the Lord, please know that I'm praying for you, too, that you will come to know that He is worthy of your trust.
Confession:
No matter the circumstances that come my way, I will trust and put my confidence in God, for He has proven Himself trustworthy. Because I trust in the Lord, I am blessed.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #126 [Where is the wealth?]
Proverbs 13:22 "A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just" (KJV).
I don't know about you, but the first part of Proverbs 13:22, that a good man leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren, gave me pause. My husband and I are far from being able to do that. We can leave the kind of inheritance noted in the Amplified version, that of "moral stability and goodness," but we long to see the fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22a, and, with wise and righteous living, we will!
When I first read this verse, I wondered why the writer linked the leaving of an inheritance to the wealth of the sinner. Today, I believe the Holy Spirit gave me some illumination.
Typically, an inheritance is noted in a will. However, just because your name is included in a will does not mean much. First, you have to have that information, to know you're mentioned in the will. Second, you have to "make a demand" or go through some other legal process, to gain access to the inheritance that is yours.
The "just" (or the righteous) have a spiritual inheritance, as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Because of that fact, we righteous have all the rights and promises that go along with being a child of God. However, it does little good, unless we know about them and unless we "make a demand" on them.
According to Proverbs 13:22b, there is wealth (chayil): “goods, might, power, riches, strength, and substance” that is laid up (tsâphan): “hidden (by being covered over), reserved, (kept) secret” for the just (tsaddîyq): "lawful, righteous, just." That wealth is hidden, kept secret by sinners (the unjust, unlawful, unrighteous).
Satan helps his followers to prosper, but it is "ill-gotten gain." From the beginning of creation, everything was made for the subsistence, consumption, enjoyment, fulfillment, and use of God's people. The Garden was perfect; there was no lack. If you look at the Old Testament patriarchs, they were "the richest men in town." They were righteous (flawed, but righteous), and God richly blessed them.
God's Word has not changed; God has not changed. If He richly blessed "the just" over 2,000 years ago, why would His intention have changed? It hasn't changed, because God is still the same God, with the same Kingdom principles. It is we who have allowed "tradition" to dictate that a Christian should be poor or live modestly, or others will think that "the love of money," the "root of all evil," is at work.
Why do we allow the enemy to make us feel guilty, when it comes to money? Sure, we will have problems if we're greedy, but if we are "about the Father's business," we have every right to "make a demand" on the promise of Proverbs 13:22.
How long are we going to let Satan continue to steal from the righteous and give to the unrighteous? How long are you going to sit idly by, living paycheck to paycheck, wishing you could give to the work of the Kingdom much more than just the tithe? If "the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just" (remember, God said it) then all you have to do is believe Him and receive it. Don't doubt God or His Word. He will be delighted to have you pray in faith, believing, *"ASK"ing for the wealth that rightly belongs to you, quoting Proverbs 13:22, and rejoicing that the wealth that belongs to you is on its way!
*See Life Plan Devotions #106-118
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, particularly that which involves weight-loss surgery, is not cheap. Even if one has insurance coverage, there are many expenses that are not included, especially after surgery. Too often, we fail to "count the cost" of maintaining a healthy post-op lifestyle. There are vitamins and supplements, protein supplementation, quality food to prepare (rather than fast food), and yearly (at minimum) blood tests, and those costs add up and are ongoing. It is a commitment to and investment in one's good health. How will you pay for it? If you have concerns about that, my advice to you is twofold: 1) Be a tither and giver, so you can claim Malachi 3:10 and Philippians 4:19, and 2) Ask God for help (Matthew 7:7). He will help you and give you ideas as to how you can plan and pay for that which you need, to have a fit body/temple for Him.
Confession:
I am clothed in the righteousness of Christ, so I confidently ask that "the wealth of the sinner" that is "laid up" for me, a "just" person, be uncovered and brought to me, so I can leave an inheritance for my grandchildren and do God's Work, in fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22.
I don't know about you, but the first part of Proverbs 13:22, that a good man leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren, gave me pause. My husband and I are far from being able to do that. We can leave the kind of inheritance noted in the Amplified version, that of "moral stability and goodness," but we long to see the fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22a, and, with wise and righteous living, we will!
When I first read this verse, I wondered why the writer linked the leaving of an inheritance to the wealth of the sinner. Today, I believe the Holy Spirit gave me some illumination.
Typically, an inheritance is noted in a will. However, just because your name is included in a will does not mean much. First, you have to have that information, to know you're mentioned in the will. Second, you have to "make a demand" or go through some other legal process, to gain access to the inheritance that is yours.
The "just" (or the righteous) have a spiritual inheritance, as heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Because of that fact, we righteous have all the rights and promises that go along with being a child of God. However, it does little good, unless we know about them and unless we "make a demand" on them.
According to Proverbs 13:22b, there is wealth (chayil): “goods, might, power, riches, strength, and substance” that is laid up (tsâphan): “hidden (by being covered over), reserved, (kept) secret” for the just (tsaddîyq): "lawful, righteous, just." That wealth is hidden, kept secret by sinners (the unjust, unlawful, unrighteous).
Satan helps his followers to prosper, but it is "ill-gotten gain." From the beginning of creation, everything was made for the subsistence, consumption, enjoyment, fulfillment, and use of God's people. The Garden was perfect; there was no lack. If you look at the Old Testament patriarchs, they were "the richest men in town." They were righteous (flawed, but righteous), and God richly blessed them.
God's Word has not changed; God has not changed. If He richly blessed "the just" over 2,000 years ago, why would His intention have changed? It hasn't changed, because God is still the same God, with the same Kingdom principles. It is we who have allowed "tradition" to dictate that a Christian should be poor or live modestly, or others will think that "the love of money," the "root of all evil," is at work.
Why do we allow the enemy to make us feel guilty, when it comes to money? Sure, we will have problems if we're greedy, but if we are "about the Father's business," we have every right to "make a demand" on the promise of Proverbs 13:22.
How long are we going to let Satan continue to steal from the righteous and give to the unrighteous? How long are you going to sit idly by, living paycheck to paycheck, wishing you could give to the work of the Kingdom much more than just the tithe? If "the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just" (remember, God said it) then all you have to do is believe Him and receive it. Don't doubt God or His Word. He will be delighted to have you pray in faith, believing, *"ASK"ing for the wealth that rightly belongs to you, quoting Proverbs 13:22, and rejoicing that the wealth that belongs to you is on its way!
*See Life Plan Devotions #106-118
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, particularly that which involves weight-loss surgery, is not cheap. Even if one has insurance coverage, there are many expenses that are not included, especially after surgery. Too often, we fail to "count the cost" of maintaining a healthy post-op lifestyle. There are vitamins and supplements, protein supplementation, quality food to prepare (rather than fast food), and yearly (at minimum) blood tests, and those costs add up and are ongoing. It is a commitment to and investment in one's good health. How will you pay for it? If you have concerns about that, my advice to you is twofold: 1) Be a tither and giver, so you can claim Malachi 3:10 and Philippians 4:19, and 2) Ask God for help (Matthew 7:7). He will help you and give you ideas as to how you can plan and pay for that which you need, to have a fit body/temple for Him.
Confession:
I am clothed in the righteousness of Christ, so I confidently ask that "the wealth of the sinner" that is "laid up" for me, a "just" person, be uncovered and brought to me, so I can leave an inheritance for my grandchildren and do God's Work, in fulfillment of Proverbs 13:22.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #124 [Strength & Courage]
Joshua 1:5-9 "No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth, meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" (NIV).
Joshua became leader, after the death of Moses. Joshua must have been hesitant, perhaps even fearful, for three times in Joshua 1:5-9 God says to Joshua, "Be strong and courageous." Joshua accepted Moses' place as leader. God's will for him was Joshua's will, and even if Joshua may have felt inadequate or fearful, he believed God's Word.
Joshua knew something each of us should "know," that going "all out" for God is the unfailing prerequisite for success, in every area of life. What did "success" mean, for Joshua? It was believing in and seeing the fulfillment of that which God had spoken over him, "You and Israel will be able to take this land" (Joshua 1:8e, CEV).
Dear reader, God has a good plan for you, for you to be successful. Will you trust Him? Will you believe Him? Will you follow His Word? Will you be "available" to God, for Him to use you? Will you accept the "place" He has for you? Will you go "all out" for Him? Will you "be strong and courageous," because He has spoken those words over you? If you can say a heartfelt "yes!" to each of those questions, then you and those you "lead" (your family) will be able to experience success, to take hold of it.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, especially when it involves weight-loss surgery, takes strength and courage. You are not alone. The same God who encouraged young Joshua with "Be strong and courageous" says the same thing to you today, and as you believe in Him and trust in and follow His Word, you will conquer and experience success, which was God's plan for you all along.
Confession:
"Yes, God."
Joshua became leader, after the death of Moses. Joshua must have been hesitant, perhaps even fearful, for three times in Joshua 1:5-9 God says to Joshua, "Be strong and courageous." Joshua accepted Moses' place as leader. God's will for him was Joshua's will, and even if Joshua may have felt inadequate or fearful, he believed God's Word.
Joshua knew something each of us should "know," that going "all out" for God is the unfailing prerequisite for success, in every area of life. What did "success" mean, for Joshua? It was believing in and seeing the fulfillment of that which God had spoken over him, "You and Israel will be able to take this land" (Joshua 1:8e, CEV).
Dear reader, God has a good plan for you, for you to be successful. Will you trust Him? Will you believe Him? Will you follow His Word? Will you be "available" to God, for Him to use you? Will you accept the "place" He has for you? Will you go "all out" for Him? Will you "be strong and courageous," because He has spoken those words over you? If you can say a heartfelt "yes!" to each of those questions, then you and those you "lead" (your family) will be able to experience success, to take hold of it.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey, especially when it involves weight-loss surgery, takes strength and courage. You are not alone. The same God who encouraged young Joshua with "Be strong and courageous" says the same thing to you today, and as you believe in Him and trust in and follow His Word, you will conquer and experience success, which was God's plan for you all along.
Confession:
"Yes, God."
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #114 [Get prayers answered, 5th condition, Part I]
Mark 11:24 "...Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it]" (Amplified).
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first four:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
Today and tomorrow, we will look at the fifth condition: 5) Pray from the place of right relationship. Take some time to examine your relationship with your spouse, child(ren), parent(s), coworker(s), boss, church family, etc.
In thinking about each of those people and your relationship with them, did you feel a "check" in your spirit? Don't be surprised, because "the heart knows its own bitterness..." (Proverbs 14:10, NKJV).
If nothing comes up for you, just to be sure all your relationships are "right," ask a trusted friend or your spouse to help you discern any relationship that needs tending. In the story of the conversion of Simon the sorcerer (Acts 8:9-25), Peter confronts Simon and, with discernment, says, "...your heart is not right in the sight of God. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness, and bound by iniquity" (Acts 8:21, 23, NKJV).
One cannot discuss the importance of right relationships to answered prayer without broaching the topic of forgiveness.
Did you know you can grieve the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 4:30 admonishes the believer with, "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God's own, secured) for the day of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the consequences of sin)" (Amplified).
Instead of grieving the Holy Spirit, we are to "Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Read our key verse (at the top) once again. The verse that follows (Mark 11:25) says, "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop" (Amplified). The implication is that if you choose to continue praying rather than forgive, your prayer will be ineffective.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey brings up much more than the need to release weight. After weight-loss surgery, especially, emotions are on edge, and if there are relationship issues pre-op, they will be magnified post-op. Seek help, and learn to forgive. If you don't, you will struggle, eventually, to release the weight or maintain the weight loss.
Confession:
I want to be confident that my prayers are heard and my requests granted, so I tend to my relationship with others. I want God's forgiveness for myself, so I am quick to forgive others.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first four:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
Today and tomorrow, we will look at the fifth condition: 5) Pray from the place of right relationship. Take some time to examine your relationship with your spouse, child(ren), parent(s), coworker(s), boss, church family, etc.
In thinking about each of those people and your relationship with them, did you feel a "check" in your spirit? Don't be surprised, because "the heart knows its own bitterness..." (Proverbs 14:10, NKJV).
If nothing comes up for you, just to be sure all your relationships are "right," ask a trusted friend or your spouse to help you discern any relationship that needs tending. In the story of the conversion of Simon the sorcerer (Acts 8:9-25), Peter confronts Simon and, with discernment, says, "...your heart is not right in the sight of God. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness, and bound by iniquity" (Acts 8:21, 23, NKJV).
One cannot discuss the importance of right relationships to answered prayer without broaching the topic of forgiveness.
Did you know you can grieve the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 4:30 admonishes the believer with, "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God's own, secured) for the day of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the consequences of sin)" (Amplified).
Instead of grieving the Holy Spirit, we are to "Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Read our key verse (at the top) once again. The verse that follows (Mark 11:25) says, "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop" (Amplified). The implication is that if you choose to continue praying rather than forgive, your prayer will be ineffective.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey brings up much more than the need to release weight. After weight-loss surgery, especially, emotions are on edge, and if there are relationship issues pre-op, they will be magnified post-op. Seek help, and learn to forgive. If you don't, you will struggle, eventually, to release the weight or maintain the weight loss.
Confession:
I want to be confident that my prayers are heard and my requests granted, so I tend to my relationship with others. I want God's forgiveness for myself, so I am quick to forgive others.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #96 [God's Armor--Helment of Salvation, Part XIV]
The enemy doesn't have to do much more than whisper, "You're going to die!" and pair it with a potentially-serious situation, and, chances are, you will give in to the fear of death/dying. I know that has been true in my life.
I was chloroformed and raped, at the age of 15. When the memories came back, so did the fear of death. Even though the repressed memories had caused me to suffer from depression and panic attacks for more than 3 decades, I never had another panic attack after my memory was restored. While I definitely had issues to work on, to work out, to work through, I no longer feared death/dying. The reason was twofold--I realized that I had not been alone for that dark time in my life, and the enemy had not won!
King David understood danger and fear of death, as he experienced it many times. He prayed, "My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death assail me. Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me. I said, 'Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest'" (Psalm 55:4-6). Even David, the one who, as a boy, killed a giant with a slingshot and a stone, felt overwhelmed with fear of death, but he prayed through until he could testify to others to "Cast your cares on the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fail" (Psalm 55:22).
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the church at Corinth, wrote about what he and his companions had suffered. He said, "We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered... We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death." Paul gives some perspective, though, to those difficult times, as he goes on to say, "But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us" (II Corinthians 1:8-10).
When you know and trust the One with Resurrection Power, fear of death/dying will no longer have a hold on you.
Psalm 56:13 [NIV]
"You have delivered my soul from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life."
What this has to do with weight loss: Our soul encompasses our mind, will, and emotions. When weighed down with many pounds of pain, death encompasses our soul, to the point where we think about it, we do the things that will bring it on prematurely, and we experience all the emotions attached with fearing a death at the hands of gluttony (our own hands). We made many attempts at fighting the fear, at making the changes necessary to turn the situation around, yet we stumbled over and over. Then God delivered us, through weight-loss surgery, and now He is helping us to keep from stumbling. The reason is so that we will live and walk before Him in the light of LIFE.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, no matter how the enemy will try to place fear of death/dying upon me, I thank You that I am never alone--You are with me always--and THE ENEMY WILL NOT WIN. You are my Deliverer, and may I walk before You in the light of life. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, trusting in the One who gave you the Helmet of Salvation (Deliverance) and the Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) to remind you that He can and will deliver you from the fear of death/dying.
I was chloroformed and raped, at the age of 15. When the memories came back, so did the fear of death. Even though the repressed memories had caused me to suffer from depression and panic attacks for more than 3 decades, I never had another panic attack after my memory was restored. While I definitely had issues to work on, to work out, to work through, I no longer feared death/dying. The reason was twofold--I realized that I had not been alone for that dark time in my life, and the enemy had not won!
King David understood danger and fear of death, as he experienced it many times. He prayed, "My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death assail me. Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me. I said, 'Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest'" (Psalm 55:4-6). Even David, the one who, as a boy, killed a giant with a slingshot and a stone, felt overwhelmed with fear of death, but he prayed through until he could testify to others to "Cast your cares on the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous fail" (Psalm 55:22).
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the church at Corinth, wrote about what he and his companions had suffered. He said, "We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered... We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death." Paul gives some perspective, though, to those difficult times, as he goes on to say, "But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us" (II Corinthians 1:8-10).
When you know and trust the One with Resurrection Power, fear of death/dying will no longer have a hold on you.
Psalm 56:13 [NIV]
"You have delivered my soul from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life."
What this has to do with weight loss: Our soul encompasses our mind, will, and emotions. When weighed down with many pounds of pain, death encompasses our soul, to the point where we think about it, we do the things that will bring it on prematurely, and we experience all the emotions attached with fearing a death at the hands of gluttony (our own hands). We made many attempts at fighting the fear, at making the changes necessary to turn the situation around, yet we stumbled over and over. Then God delivered us, through weight-loss surgery, and now He is helping us to keep from stumbling. The reason is so that we will live and walk before Him in the light of LIFE.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, no matter how the enemy will try to place fear of death/dying upon me, I thank You that I am never alone--You are with me always--and THE ENEMY WILL NOT WIN. You are my Deliverer, and may I walk before You in the light of life. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, trusting in the One who gave you the Helmet of Salvation (Deliverance) and the Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) to remind you that He can and will deliver you from the fear of death/dying.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #58 [Mountains, Part III]
Today we continue looking at how to move a mountain. Jesus said, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move" (Matthew 17:20, NIV). Notice that Jesus said "say to this mountain." You must speak to your mountain.
Yesterday, I asked you to decide what mountain you want moved and to write it down. Today, I want you to decide if you're willing to speak to your mountain. It's harder to decide than you might think. You've got to open your mouth and speak to your mountain, and that takes determination and commitment, because you have to say what you mean and mean what you say.
If you're willing to commit to this process of moving your mountain, open your mouth and speak to your mountain. If commitment is not there, don't speak to your mountain, because your words will be meaningless. If you're committed and willing to exercise your faith (we'll talk about faith next time), in a firm voice, speak the following: "In the Name of Jesus, mountain of __________, I command you to MOVE!"
Matthew 17:20 [NIV]
"...say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there'..."
What this has to do with weight loss: I knew my mountain of 245 excess pounds had to move, and when I was in the hospital in June of 2008, right there in my hospital room, I spoke these words: "Mountain of excess weight, I command you to MOVE, in Jesus' Name!" I then prayed, "Lord, if You open the door to weight-loss surgery, I'll walk through it." What is your weight-loss journey mountain? Open your mouth and command it to move, and then pray for God's help and wisdom to cooperate in the mountain-moving miracle that's coming your way.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I love that You've given me permission and authority to speak to my mountain and command it to move. I ask You to give me the courage to do my part, to open my mouth and say the words with commitment. Continue to show me, through Your Word, how to empower my words with faith. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, speaking to your mountain.
The S.T.A.R.T. Program (Strategies To Achieve Recovery & Transformation) CD helps you change from the inside-out. Check it out at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html.
Yesterday, I asked you to decide what mountain you want moved and to write it down. Today, I want you to decide if you're willing to speak to your mountain. It's harder to decide than you might think. You've got to open your mouth and speak to your mountain, and that takes determination and commitment, because you have to say what you mean and mean what you say.
If you're willing to commit to this process of moving your mountain, open your mouth and speak to your mountain. If commitment is not there, don't speak to your mountain, because your words will be meaningless. If you're committed and willing to exercise your faith (we'll talk about faith next time), in a firm voice, speak the following: "In the Name of Jesus, mountain of __________, I command you to MOVE!"
Matthew 17:20 [NIV]
"...say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there'..."
What this has to do with weight loss: I knew my mountain of 245 excess pounds had to move, and when I was in the hospital in June of 2008, right there in my hospital room, I spoke these words: "Mountain of excess weight, I command you to MOVE, in Jesus' Name!" I then prayed, "Lord, if You open the door to weight-loss surgery, I'll walk through it." What is your weight-loss journey mountain? Open your mouth and command it to move, and then pray for God's help and wisdom to cooperate in the mountain-moving miracle that's coming your way.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I love that You've given me permission and authority to speak to my mountain and command it to move. I ask You to give me the courage to do my part, to open my mouth and say the words with commitment. Continue to show me, through Your Word, how to empower my words with faith. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, speaking to your mountain.
The S.T.A.R.T. Program (Strategies To Achieve Recovery & Transformation) CD helps you change from the inside-out. Check it out at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #53 [Spring Cleaning, Worry, Day 1]
Doesn't it feel good, to know that you're getting rid of strife, negative talk, and gossip from your home? Today, let's focus on cleaning out worry from your heart and home.
I used to worry about so many things. One day, I was talking to my mother on the telephone, recounting my latest worry. Mom listened well, as she always did, and when I finished, she said, "Honey, do you know the saying, 'Why worry when you can pray'?" I said, "Yes," and she continued with, "Well, your saying is 'Why pray when you can worry.'" As a believer, that stung, but her point was well made. I was not making use of the power of prayer, to gain victory over the sin of worrying. And worry is a sin, because it shows a lack of trust in our Heavenly Father as Friend, Protector, Provider, and more.
From experience, and with much love for you--the reader, I tell you that if you do not take control of worry and the underlying foundational emotion of fear, they will control you, for the rest of your life. That is not the abundant life God promises (John 10:10), so why settle for it. Be determined today, to seek and clean out every spot of fear and worry from your heart and home. Use the power of God's Word and prayer, to do so.
Philippians 4:6 [Amplified]
"Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God."
What this has to do with weight loss: It is very tempting to give in to fear and worry, when it comes to our weight-loss journey. "What ifs" creep up at every turn. What if I can't afford weight-loss surgery? What if I die in the operating room? What if I'm the only one who doesn't lose weight after surgery? What if I "eat around" my surgery? What if I transfer my addiction to food to something else? What if I lose weight and have an affair? The list is endless, but the believer does not have to give in to those fears and worries. Take each one to the Lord in prayer, and ask Him to help you to change each "what if" into a "but God..."
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I know that there are times when You look at me and say, like You said to Martha, 'You are worried about many things,' when You want me to be like Mary, sitting at Your feet, choosing 'the better thing.' I don't want to be ruled by fear and worry, for I know it's a sin. I desire to trust You, to depend on You and Your Word, to come to You in prayer and petition, and ask You to take care of each fear, each worry. Help me to see when I'm being tempted to give in to fear or worry, and give me the strength to allow You to show me the way through, to victory. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, determined to get rid of fear and worry from your heart and home.
Psalms for Surgery CD is a great product to use when you are coming against fear and worry. Let the Psalms comfort you. This CD is available at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html. Listen to a sound bite from each track there, also.
I used to worry about so many things. One day, I was talking to my mother on the telephone, recounting my latest worry. Mom listened well, as she always did, and when I finished, she said, "Honey, do you know the saying, 'Why worry when you can pray'?" I said, "Yes," and she continued with, "Well, your saying is 'Why pray when you can worry.'" As a believer, that stung, but her point was well made. I was not making use of the power of prayer, to gain victory over the sin of worrying. And worry is a sin, because it shows a lack of trust in our Heavenly Father as Friend, Protector, Provider, and more.
From experience, and with much love for you--the reader, I tell you that if you do not take control of worry and the underlying foundational emotion of fear, they will control you, for the rest of your life. That is not the abundant life God promises (John 10:10), so why settle for it. Be determined today, to seek and clean out every spot of fear and worry from your heart and home. Use the power of God's Word and prayer, to do so.
Philippians 4:6 [Amplified]
"Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God."
What this has to do with weight loss: It is very tempting to give in to fear and worry, when it comes to our weight-loss journey. "What ifs" creep up at every turn. What if I can't afford weight-loss surgery? What if I die in the operating room? What if I'm the only one who doesn't lose weight after surgery? What if I "eat around" my surgery? What if I transfer my addiction to food to something else? What if I lose weight and have an affair? The list is endless, but the believer does not have to give in to those fears and worries. Take each one to the Lord in prayer, and ask Him to help you to change each "what if" into a "but God..."
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I know that there are times when You look at me and say, like You said to Martha, 'You are worried about many things,' when You want me to be like Mary, sitting at Your feet, choosing 'the better thing.' I don't want to be ruled by fear and worry, for I know it's a sin. I desire to trust You, to depend on You and Your Word, to come to You in prayer and petition, and ask You to take care of each fear, each worry. Help me to see when I'm being tempted to give in to fear or worry, and give me the strength to allow You to show me the way through, to victory. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, determined to get rid of fear and worry from your heart and home.
Psalms for Surgery CD is a great product to use when you are coming against fear and worry. Let the Psalms comfort you. This CD is available at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html. Listen to a sound bite from each track there, also.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #44 [F.I.R.S.T. Place, Part V]
Previously, we looked at 4 of the 5 areas of life (finances, interests, relationships, and schedule), to see, individually, if God has first place in your life. Today, we'll look at the fifth and final area.
Troubles (the T in F.I.R.S.T.)--Think about your troubles, that which troubles you. Do those troubles defeat you? Do they cause you to moan and groan or even to be angry at God because you're going through them? Are you handling your troubles, or are your troubles handling you? Do you search the Word for scripture about your troubling area, so you know what God's Word says about it? Do you search out the promises contained in the Word, and are you doing your part so God can do His part? Finally, are you patient in waiting for God to move in your circumstances, living by faith and not by sight (II Corinthians 5:7)? Do you understand the authority given to you as a believer (Mark 16:17-18) and, if so, do you put on and use the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), speak the Name of Jesus and tell Satan to "Move on!"?
We live in a fallen world, so we will experience troubling situations, but we can and must believe the Lord when He said, "...be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, Amplified). You are an overcomer, because you have The Overcomer within you. Think like it, talk like it, and walk like it. If you need wisdom in a situation, go to God and ask for it, and He will give it to you (James 1:5). Is God first in your troubles?
II Corinthians 4:8-9 [NIV]
"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed... For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."
What this has to do with weight loss: I have wept over some of the posts I've read on ObesityHelp.com, by precious people who are going through terrible complications post-weight loss surgery. I've marveled at their courage, even their ability to just get up every morning. Those who know the Lord shine, even during their darkest days. They are able to give encouragement to others, despite knowing discouragement themselves. They live the saying, "Hope springs eternal," and it's a joy to rejoice with them when their troubles are over.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, there are days when I feel beset on every side by troubles. Sometimes those troubles threaten to crush me, but that's when I look up to You, The Overcomer. Thank You for Your Word that prepares me for the inevitability of troubles, yet does not leave me without help and hope. Thank You that no matter what I face, You are right here beside me, comforting and encouraging me. May I look to Your Word, in all my troubles, for the pathway through every trouble, and may I take advantage of every promise in Your Word connected to each trouble I experience, so my time in the valley may be short. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, putting God first in your troubles.
In times of uncertainty and trouble, listen to the Psalms from the cd Psalms for Surgery. More information available at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html.
Troubles (the T in F.I.R.S.T.)--Think about your troubles, that which troubles you. Do those troubles defeat you? Do they cause you to moan and groan or even to be angry at God because you're going through them? Are you handling your troubles, or are your troubles handling you? Do you search the Word for scripture about your troubling area, so you know what God's Word says about it? Do you search out the promises contained in the Word, and are you doing your part so God can do His part? Finally, are you patient in waiting for God to move in your circumstances, living by faith and not by sight (II Corinthians 5:7)? Do you understand the authority given to you as a believer (Mark 16:17-18) and, if so, do you put on and use the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), speak the Name of Jesus and tell Satan to "Move on!"?
We live in a fallen world, so we will experience troubling situations, but we can and must believe the Lord when He said, "...be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, Amplified). You are an overcomer, because you have The Overcomer within you. Think like it, talk like it, and walk like it. If you need wisdom in a situation, go to God and ask for it, and He will give it to you (James 1:5). Is God first in your troubles?
II Corinthians 4:8-9 [NIV]
"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed... For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."
What this has to do with weight loss: I have wept over some of the posts I've read on ObesityHelp.com, by precious people who are going through terrible complications post-weight loss surgery. I've marveled at their courage, even their ability to just get up every morning. Those who know the Lord shine, even during their darkest days. They are able to give encouragement to others, despite knowing discouragement themselves. They live the saying, "Hope springs eternal," and it's a joy to rejoice with them when their troubles are over.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, there are days when I feel beset on every side by troubles. Sometimes those troubles threaten to crush me, but that's when I look up to You, The Overcomer. Thank You for Your Word that prepares me for the inevitability of troubles, yet does not leave me without help and hope. Thank You that no matter what I face, You are right here beside me, comforting and encouraging me. May I look to Your Word, in all my troubles, for the pathway through every trouble, and may I take advantage of every promise in Your Word connected to each trouble I experience, so my time in the valley may be short. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, putting God first in your troubles.
In times of uncertainty and trouble, listen to the Psalms from the cd Psalms for Surgery. More information available at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #40 [F.I.R.S.T. Place]
Quick! What's the first commandment? Did you remember that the first of the 10 Commandments is "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3, NKJV)? A "god" is an idol, defined in The Strong's Dictionary of Bible Words as "a fashioned idol, likeness, the worship of such," and, interestingly, "pain."
God commands and demands that He be first in your life. Does God have first place in your life? How can you know? Here's an acronym, F.I.R.S.T., and some questions, to assist you in knowing the place God has in 5 major areas of your life. We'll look at one area per day, for 5 days.
Finances (the F in F.I.R.S.T.)--Take a look at your checkbook register, and you'll get a good idea where your heart is. It is true that "where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matthew 6:21, KJV). Do you tithe? Do you tithe 10 percent? Do you tithe from your gross or the net pay? Is your tithe check the first check you write, after getting paid, or the last? Do you give to other godly causes, as an offering, above your tithe? Do you sow into good ground/good ministries? Do you prayerfully ask God what He would have you give and then are you obedient to His leading? Do you "give until it hurts" and then trust God to provide? Is God first in your finances?
In these uncertain economic times, the best way to recession-proof your finances is to put God first in them. There is only one place in the Bible where you are invited to test God, and that is in the area of tithing. Read Malachi 3:10, and if you're a regular tither, claim the promise. If you're not, consider taking God up on His challenge. Just know that the blessing may not happen right away, but it will happen, and part of that blessing is God taking care of your needs, no matter what's going on in your life (or in the economy) [Philippians 4:19].
Matthew 6:33 [NIV]
"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
What this has to do with weight loss: It's expensive to have weight-loss surgery, and it's not cheap to live with it. There are vitamins and supplements to take, protein shakes and other protein-enriched foods to purchase, yearly blood work and follow-up visits, and that's only the beginning. The best way to be able to afford all of that is to put God first in your finances, for when you do that, He promises to give you "all these things." Prove Him on it.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, when I look at the state of the economy, it can sure get scary, but I thank You that there is no recession where You live. Since Your Word says that we believers are "seated in heavenly places" (Ephesians 2:6), there shouldn't be recession issues with us. Thank You for Your Word that teaches me that if I put You first, everything else will work out. Lord, I know that Your children are not immune to trials, but I praise You that You have promised "never to leave [us] nor forsake [us]" (Hebrews 13:5). I don't have to worry about finances, as long as I put my trust in You and seek You first. I know You are worthy of my trust. Help me to do what I should do, so You can do all You have promised. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen."
Go forth today, putting God first in your finances.
God commands and demands that He be first in your life. Does God have first place in your life? How can you know? Here's an acronym, F.I.R.S.T., and some questions, to assist you in knowing the place God has in 5 major areas of your life. We'll look at one area per day, for 5 days.
Finances (the F in F.I.R.S.T.)--Take a look at your checkbook register, and you'll get a good idea where your heart is. It is true that "where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matthew 6:21, KJV). Do you tithe? Do you tithe 10 percent? Do you tithe from your gross or the net pay? Is your tithe check the first check you write, after getting paid, or the last? Do you give to other godly causes, as an offering, above your tithe? Do you sow into good ground/good ministries? Do you prayerfully ask God what He would have you give and then are you obedient to His leading? Do you "give until it hurts" and then trust God to provide? Is God first in your finances?
In these uncertain economic times, the best way to recession-proof your finances is to put God first in them. There is only one place in the Bible where you are invited to test God, and that is in the area of tithing. Read Malachi 3:10, and if you're a regular tither, claim the promise. If you're not, consider taking God up on His challenge. Just know that the blessing may not happen right away, but it will happen, and part of that blessing is God taking care of your needs, no matter what's going on in your life (or in the economy) [Philippians 4:19].
Matthew 6:33 [NIV]
"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
What this has to do with weight loss: It's expensive to have weight-loss surgery, and it's not cheap to live with it. There are vitamins and supplements to take, protein shakes and other protein-enriched foods to purchase, yearly blood work and follow-up visits, and that's only the beginning. The best way to be able to afford all of that is to put God first in your finances, for when you do that, He promises to give you "all these things." Prove Him on it.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, when I look at the state of the economy, it can sure get scary, but I thank You that there is no recession where You live. Since Your Word says that we believers are "seated in heavenly places" (Ephesians 2:6), there shouldn't be recession issues with us. Thank You for Your Word that teaches me that if I put You first, everything else will work out. Lord, I know that Your children are not immune to trials, but I praise You that You have promised "never to leave [us] nor forsake [us]" (Hebrews 13:5). I don't have to worry about finances, as long as I put my trust in You and seek You first. I know You are worthy of my trust. Help me to do what I should do, so You can do all You have promised. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen."
Go forth today, putting God first in your finances.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Life Plan Devotional #37 [Regrets]
My grown baby boy turned to me and said, "Mom, you know I love you. Please don't take this the wrong way, but for such a smart lady, you can be kind of dumb." That jolted me out of my regrettable fog, where I'd been regretting my regrets of the past. [redundancy intended]
Regrets...I've had a few [do you hear Frank Sinatra?]. If you feel sorrow or remorse for an act, fault, disappointment, wrong committed or errors made in the past, feel a sense of loss, disappointment, or dissatisfaction in connection with the memory, you're experiencing regret. Regret can be for something that was done or not done.
What are your regrets? Do you regret not saying "I love you" one more time? Did you miss an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus? Do you look back at your years of parenting, and one situation, where you could have done better, looms over all the times you did it right? Perhaps you had a moral failure or abandoned a dream you now see you could have achieved. Maybe you made a poor business decision or blamed someone else for a mistake you made. Could it be that your biggest regret is nor forgiving yourself or living with anger for far too long?
Unless you're at the end of your life and beginning eternity without knowing Jesus as your Savior, regrets are a waste of time. You can't go back and change the past. God wants you to know that He's aware of all your regrets, and He wants you to admit them, learn from them, make restitution (if needed), and move on. Instead of your deepest regrets becoming a heavy chain around your ankle, that ties you to the past, allow them to become the best part of your testimony of God's grace. Confess your regrets, repent of them, receive forgiveness for them, and then let them go. If you choose to continue to dig up those regrets, that Jesus has removed from you and given a proper burial, you'll become enmeshed in them all over again, and you will miss out on the blessings God has planned for you. That, my friend, would be the biggest regret of all.
Proverbs 5:11-14 [Message]
"You don't want to end your life full of regrets, nothing but sin and bones, saying, 'Oh, why didn't I do what they told me? Why did I reject a disciplined life? Why didn't I listen to my mentors, or take my teachers seriously? My life is ruined! I haven't one blessed thing to show for my life!'"
Regrets...I've had a few [do you hear Frank Sinatra?]. If you feel sorrow or remorse for an act, fault, disappointment, wrong committed or errors made in the past, feel a sense of loss, disappointment, or dissatisfaction in connection with the memory, you're experiencing regret. Regret can be for something that was done or not done.
What are your regrets? Do you regret not saying "I love you" one more time? Did you miss an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus? Do you look back at your years of parenting, and one situation, where you could have done better, looms over all the times you did it right? Perhaps you had a moral failure or abandoned a dream you now see you could have achieved. Maybe you made a poor business decision or blamed someone else for a mistake you made. Could it be that your biggest regret is nor forgiving yourself or living with anger for far too long?
Unless you're at the end of your life and beginning eternity without knowing Jesus as your Savior, regrets are a waste of time. You can't go back and change the past. God wants you to know that He's aware of all your regrets, and He wants you to admit them, learn from them, make restitution (if needed), and move on. Instead of your deepest regrets becoming a heavy chain around your ankle, that ties you to the past, allow them to become the best part of your testimony of God's grace. Confess your regrets, repent of them, receive forgiveness for them, and then let them go. If you choose to continue to dig up those regrets, that Jesus has removed from you and given a proper burial, you'll become enmeshed in them all over again, and you will miss out on the blessings God has planned for you. That, my friend, would be the biggest regret of all.
Proverbs 5:11-14 [Message]
"You don't want to end your life full of regrets, nothing but sin and bones, saying, 'Oh, why didn't I do what they told me? Why did I reject a disciplined life? Why didn't I listen to my mentors, or take my teachers seriously? My life is ruined! I haven't one blessed thing to show for my life!'"
What this has to do with weight loss: We who are on the weight-loss journey experience regret. We regret that we gained weight in the first place, and we regret that we didn't have weight-loss surgery sooner (just to name a few). Since you can't go back and change the past, be determined to quit wasting time thinking about or voicing regrets of the past, even in the area of weight issues. Let them go, so you can live today fully alive and without regret.
Prayer for Today: "Heavenly Father, I don't want to live my life regretting the past, and I certainly don't want to end my life full of regrets. Today, Lord, I choose to confess each regret to You, and then I'm going to ask for Your forgiveness for each one. I promise to allow You to provide forgiveness, forgiveness which I will accept, and then I'm going to allow You to remove each regret and bury it. I pray that I will never go digging it up, in the future. I repent of the time I've wasted thinking of and talking about past regrets. I can't change the past. I know that, Lord, so I'm asking You to help me learn from the past, live for today, and make better choices in the future. I pray in Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, with no regrets.
S.T.A.R.T. (Strategies To Achieve Recovery & Transformation) Program, 2-CD set for the bariatric patient, can help you make the changes necessary on the inside, in order to see changes on the outside. Listen to a sound bite from each track at http://www.cdeanhall.com/products.html.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #26 [Wait]
I have been asked how I am given the daily devotion. The day before, I "hear" a verse of scripture or a topic from the Lord--something He puts on my heart. I meditate on it, think about it, pray about it, and just let it "percolate." Sometimes, I wake up in the night and think about it some more, often receiving more direction from the Lord, in prayer. In the morning, when I awake, I am usually able to sit down at the computer and allow God's message to flow through my fingers. He is faithful. All I have to do is listen and be obedient.
Yesterday, however, no topic came. By last night, I'll admit, I was a bit nervous. I knew, though, that God would come through, for I know that He has absolutely been "all over" this daily devotion, from the very first one. At 3:00 a.m., I awoke with a start and "heard" the word "Wait." I reached for my concordance and began to look up scripture with the word "wait." While it was a precious time of reading the Word, no certain scripture jumped out at me.
I began to pray for guidance in how to develop today's devotion around the word "Wait." After praying, I just got quiet, to listen. I felt led to go to www.GodTube.com (now called Tangle), and, once there, I simply typed in the word "Wait" at the Search. There were 2 videos listed with just that word as the title. The first one, while very nice, was not the one. The second one was the one.
I believe that there is someone--actually, more than one person--who needs to hear the message in this song, "Wait." I want you to know that this song is absolutely for you, today, from Almighty God. For those of you who are ministered by this song today, I ask that you reply. All you have to type is "This was for me" and, if you're willing, give me your first name. My pledge to you is that I will pray for you today. http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=332c014fdf6576afd323
Psalm 27:14 [NLT]
"Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD."
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey is one full of waiting. You must wait for insurance approval or the money to pay for weight-loss surgery. You must wait for a surgery date, fulfilling pre-op requirements. You may be required to lose some weight on your own, first, or go through a six-month supervised diet. Perhaps you have had weight-loss surgery, and you're now waiting for your body to heal. Perhaps you're waiting for a plateau or stall to end or waiting to reach your goal weight. So much waiting. There's nothing inactive about waiting. While you're waiting, remember to wait patiently for the Lord, for as you do, He will reward your bravery and courage.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I'll be honest...waiting can be so hard and so lonely. Help me to know that You're with me, as I'm waiting for the next part of my journey to happen. Help me to be brave and courageous. Help me to wait on You to work on my behalf. May I wait patiently for You, Lord, and all You have for me, and may I be diligent to not give up. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, and wait, with courage.
Yesterday, however, no topic came. By last night, I'll admit, I was a bit nervous. I knew, though, that God would come through, for I know that He has absolutely been "all over" this daily devotion, from the very first one. At 3:00 a.m., I awoke with a start and "heard" the word "Wait." I reached for my concordance and began to look up scripture with the word "wait." While it was a precious time of reading the Word, no certain scripture jumped out at me.
I began to pray for guidance in how to develop today's devotion around the word "Wait." After praying, I just got quiet, to listen. I felt led to go to www.GodTube.com (now called Tangle), and, once there, I simply typed in the word "Wait" at the Search. There were 2 videos listed with just that word as the title. The first one, while very nice, was not the one. The second one was the one.
I believe that there is someone--actually, more than one person--who needs to hear the message in this song, "Wait." I want you to know that this song is absolutely for you, today, from Almighty God. For those of you who are ministered by this song today, I ask that you reply. All you have to type is "This was for me" and, if you're willing, give me your first name. My pledge to you is that I will pray for you today. http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=332c014fdf6576afd323
Psalm 27:14 [NLT]
"Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD."
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey is one full of waiting. You must wait for insurance approval or the money to pay for weight-loss surgery. You must wait for a surgery date, fulfilling pre-op requirements. You may be required to lose some weight on your own, first, or go through a six-month supervised diet. Perhaps you have had weight-loss surgery, and you're now waiting for your body to heal. Perhaps you're waiting for a plateau or stall to end or waiting to reach your goal weight. So much waiting. There's nothing inactive about waiting. While you're waiting, remember to wait patiently for the Lord, for as you do, He will reward your bravery and courage.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I'll be honest...waiting can be so hard and so lonely. Help me to know that You're with me, as I'm waiting for the next part of my journey to happen. Help me to be brave and courageous. Help me to wait on You to work on my behalf. May I wait patiently for You, Lord, and all You have for me, and may I be diligent to not give up. In Jesus' Name. Amen."
Go forth today, and wait, with courage.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #19 [Need a makeover?]
Did you ever watch "Extreme Makeover"? No, I'm not talking about Ty Pennington and the Home Makeover Team, although it's a good show, too. I'm referring to the show which chose several less-than-beautiful women willing to hand over their body to a panel of experts in plastic surgery, dentistry, ophthalmology, diet and exercise, hair care, clothing, and makeup. There was a token psychologist, but it wasn't clear how involved the women were in personal counseling, which might explain the true shock on their face at their first "reveal."
What truly important thing about yourself would you like to change, that you would need God's help to accomplish? Perhaps additional questions to ask yourself would be, "How does God want to transform me? What change in my life would please Him?" Maybe you cannot move forward in your life mission, without this change. Whether you need courage to see a counselor, confidence to ask a friend for prayer, the self discipline to live a downsized life or stop abusing your finances, the determination to walk away from an unhealthy relationship, the submission to the nudge to quit rehearsing your past hurts so you can move forward into the present and the future, or the motivation to mind your own business, God can help you do what you cannot seem to do for yourself. Partner with Him, and the "caterpillar" in your life will become a "butterfly."
Romans 12:2
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--His good, pleasing and perfect will" (NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: Every person on the weight-loss surgery journey wants to end up a svelte/handsome woman/man. What we soon realize is that our surgeon operated on our stomach, not our mind. There is emotional surgery that must be performed, if we are to be successful long term. As daunting a task as that may seem, it's helpful and comforting to know that the One who created us is ready, willing, and able to transform us. Allow Him to renew your mind and heart, and you will see the changes, inside and out.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, help me not to conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of my mind. When that happens, I'll be able to test and approve Your good, pleasing, and perfect will for my life. I don't want to live anymore in denial about what needs to change in me. I don't want to avoid doing the "hard thing" in that area of my life. I desire to be transformed, but it scares me. Today, I pray for the courage and strength to change the things that, with Your help, I can change, those truly important things that will please You and that will help me accomplish the life mission You have for me. I ask You to do the transformational work in me. Give me the courage, strength, and power to drop my resistance and quit making excuses. In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen."
Go forth today, in the anticipatory joy of godly transformation.
What truly important thing about yourself would you like to change, that you would need God's help to accomplish? Perhaps additional questions to ask yourself would be, "How does God want to transform me? What change in my life would please Him?" Maybe you cannot move forward in your life mission, without this change. Whether you need courage to see a counselor, confidence to ask a friend for prayer, the self discipline to live a downsized life or stop abusing your finances, the determination to walk away from an unhealthy relationship, the submission to the nudge to quit rehearsing your past hurts so you can move forward into the present and the future, or the motivation to mind your own business, God can help you do what you cannot seem to do for yourself. Partner with Him, and the "caterpillar" in your life will become a "butterfly."
Romans 12:2
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--His good, pleasing and perfect will" (NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: Every person on the weight-loss surgery journey wants to end up a svelte/handsome woman/man. What we soon realize is that our surgeon operated on our stomach, not our mind. There is emotional surgery that must be performed, if we are to be successful long term. As daunting a task as that may seem, it's helpful and comforting to know that the One who created us is ready, willing, and able to transform us. Allow Him to renew your mind and heart, and you will see the changes, inside and out.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, help me not to conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of my mind. When that happens, I'll be able to test and approve Your good, pleasing, and perfect will for my life. I don't want to live anymore in denial about what needs to change in me. I don't want to avoid doing the "hard thing" in that area of my life. I desire to be transformed, but it scares me. Today, I pray for the courage and strength to change the things that, with Your help, I can change, those truly important things that will please You and that will help me accomplish the life mission You have for me. I ask You to do the transformational work in me. Give me the courage, strength, and power to drop my resistance and quit making excuses. In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen."
Go forth today, in the anticipatory joy of godly transformation.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #15 [The pearl]
Do you know how a pearl develops? It happens when a foreign substance slips into an oyster, between its mantle and shell. This irritates the oyster, and the oyster reacts by secreting layers of a natural substance, to cover and protect itself from the irritant, eventually forming a pearl.
How do you react to irritants, whether they be situations or people? They can be either a constant source of irritation or an opportunity to allow God's grace to cover it and you. The result just may be a jewel.
II Corinthians 12:9 [NIV]
"...'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'"
What this has to do with weight loss: There are many irritations that come with weight-loss surgery and the way of eating and drinking afterward, that are meant to lead to weight loss and maintenance. You can either react in frustration or you can submit to the process. God's grace will help you submit to the process, as you submit to Him.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, knowing Jesus, the Pearl of Great Price, is precious to me. I thank You for the Grace that flows down and covers me. Help me, today, to submit to You and to the process of being smoothed out by heavenly sandpaper, those situations and people who tend to irritate. Help me to see it all as You see it, an opportunity to develop godly character and live as one of Your jewels. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, covered by Grace.
How do you react to irritants, whether they be situations or people? They can be either a constant source of irritation or an opportunity to allow God's grace to cover it and you. The result just may be a jewel.
II Corinthians 12:9 [NIV]
"...'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'"
What this has to do with weight loss: There are many irritations that come with weight-loss surgery and the way of eating and drinking afterward, that are meant to lead to weight loss and maintenance. You can either react in frustration or you can submit to the process. God's grace will help you submit to the process, as you submit to Him.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, knowing Jesus, the Pearl of Great Price, is precious to me. I thank You for the Grace that flows down and covers me. Help me, today, to submit to You and to the process of being smoothed out by heavenly sandpaper, those situations and people who tend to irritate. Help me to see it all as You see it, an opportunity to develop godly character and live as one of Your jewels. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, covered by Grace.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #7 [Success]
There are two ways to define "success"--the world's way and God's way. The world's way is to define success in terms of fame, wealth, possessions, power, perfection, or popularity. God's way is to define success as bringing glory to Him in whatever we think, say, and do.
Which definition of success beckons you? While God's way is always best, the world's definition isn't necessarily wrong. It just shouldn't be enough. True success is coming to the place in your life when nothing and no one else will satisfy your longings and desires, and then finding that satisfaction in Jesus Christ.
A successful person is one who uses the gifts and abilities God has given him/her to make a difference. A successful person recognizes that in whatever situation/season/place he/she is in, God will have opportunities available to glorify Him and to impact others, and the successful person will take advantage of those opportunities.
Philippians 1:6 [NIV]
"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."
What this has to do with weight loss: Most weight-loss surgery people would define success as reaching and maintaining goal weight. That's true, but the truly successful weight-loss surgery person is the one who also gives all the glory for reaching and maintaining goal weight to God and then uses every opportunity to lead others to the One who can help them find true success.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I am confident of this, that You who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Your return. Today, I pray that I will gain more clarity about true success, which is living for You, as You carry out Your good work. My desire is to 'show up' wherever You call me, every day, and cooperate with You, pointing others to You. As I give You permission to make me successful in Your eyes, I know that good gifts will come to me that may be included in the world's definition of success. I pray that I will keep my eyes on You and use it all, including myself, for Your glory. In the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and pursue true success.
Which definition of success beckons you? While God's way is always best, the world's definition isn't necessarily wrong. It just shouldn't be enough. True success is coming to the place in your life when nothing and no one else will satisfy your longings and desires, and then finding that satisfaction in Jesus Christ.
A successful person is one who uses the gifts and abilities God has given him/her to make a difference. A successful person recognizes that in whatever situation/season/place he/she is in, God will have opportunities available to glorify Him and to impact others, and the successful person will take advantage of those opportunities.
Philippians 1:6 [NIV]
"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."
What this has to do with weight loss: Most weight-loss surgery people would define success as reaching and maintaining goal weight. That's true, but the truly successful weight-loss surgery person is the one who also gives all the glory for reaching and maintaining goal weight to God and then uses every opportunity to lead others to the One who can help them find true success.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I am confident of this, that You who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Your return. Today, I pray that I will gain more clarity about true success, which is living for You, as You carry out Your good work. My desire is to 'show up' wherever You call me, every day, and cooperate with You, pointing others to You. As I give You permission to make me successful in Your eyes, I know that good gifts will come to me that may be included in the world's definition of success. I pray that I will keep my eyes on You and use it all, including myself, for Your glory. In the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and pursue true success.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #6 [You've got talent!]
What are you good at? Everyone has at least one talent or skill, probably more than one. Sometimes others can see in us what we don't recognize. If you're having trouble answering the question at the beginning of this devotion, just ask someone who knows you well, then listen carefully.
Surprisingly, our most useful talent or skill can be birthed as a result of our greatest hurt or trauma. What happens in our life that is very difficult can either bury us or carry us. There is great joy in using our life experiences, good and bad, to help others on their journey.
Whether your talents, abilities, and skills were God-given at your birth or learned over the years and experiences of your life, if you commit them to God, He will guide you in how to use them to help others and glorify Him. In so doing, you will find true satisfaction.
Exodus 31:1,3 [NIV]
"Then the LORD said,...'And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.'"
What this has to do with weight loss: In your weight-loss journey, you have learned many things, about yourself, about what works for you and what doesn't, and more. Don't keep that knowledge inside. Look for opportunities to help someone else who is on their own weight-loss journey.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, You have filled me with the Spirit of God--with skill, ability, talent, and knowledge. Today, I pray that You will help me to use all that You have given me to my maximum potential. If there is some ability in me that I have not tapped into, please show me, so I can dedicate it to You, along with my other talents and skills. Stretch me, God, into the full measure of who You want me to be. Help me boldly claim my full capacity for Your use. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and be used of God to help others.
Surprisingly, our most useful talent or skill can be birthed as a result of our greatest hurt or trauma. What happens in our life that is very difficult can either bury us or carry us. There is great joy in using our life experiences, good and bad, to help others on their journey.
Whether your talents, abilities, and skills were God-given at your birth or learned over the years and experiences of your life, if you commit them to God, He will guide you in how to use them to help others and glorify Him. In so doing, you will find true satisfaction.
Exodus 31:1,3 [NIV]
"Then the LORD said,...'And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.'"
What this has to do with weight loss: In your weight-loss journey, you have learned many things, about yourself, about what works for you and what doesn't, and more. Don't keep that knowledge inside. Look for opportunities to help someone else who is on their own weight-loss journey.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, You have filled me with the Spirit of God--with skill, ability, talent, and knowledge. Today, I pray that You will help me to use all that You have given me to my maximum potential. If there is some ability in me that I have not tapped into, please show me, so I can dedicate it to You, along with my other talents and skills. Stretch me, God, into the full measure of who You want me to be. Help me boldly claim my full capacity for Your use. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and be used of God to help others.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #5 [Used]
As painful as it may be, recall one of the worst times in your life. Perhaps it was the death of a loved one, an unexpected divorce, abuse, an addiction, abortion, a job loss, an angry teen child, a hateful act of discrimination, an eating disorder. Remember the details of your painful circumstance.
Just as there is no shortage of problems and crises, there is no shortage of God's grace. Think about the good that God was able to bring out of your painful past. Perhaps you have never thought about that, the fact that God can use all your troubles in His plan for your life, but He will, if you will let Him.
God will not waste one moment of pain or sadness. Living in a fallen world, with people who have the ability to choose to act in hurtful ways, is what ushers in pain and sadness. Yet God is able to use our heartache to build our character, draw us closer to Him, and make us more effective in the area of ministry He has for each believer.
How did God use a painful moment in your life? Did you draw closer to Him? Did you find strength inside yourself that you didn't know you had? Did it turn you in a new direction? Were you protected from greater harm? Did it cause you to be empathetic with others, rather than just sympathetic? Are you able to share your life experience with others who are hurting, helping them to know what to do next? Have you been asked to share your faith with someone, because of a shared life experience? Did you learn to trust God and to let Him help you?
Romans 8:28 [NIV]
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Note: Italics used by writer.
What this has to do with weight loss: Every overweight person regrets the journey to obesity, whether that journey involved a prison of his/her own choosing or the fact that someone else held open the prison door and then locked him/her inside. For the believer, every prison door can be opened, the prisoner can walk free, and the prison experience can be used by God to make a difference in the life of someone else--to help free others.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I know that in all things You work for the good of those who love You, those who are called according to Your purpose, so that includes me. Today, I thank You for how You planned, in advance, to turn all my problems and crises into good--and that You have made that promise to all believers. It gives me enormous hope. Help me to remember always that You are my compassionate, caring Father. I give all my hurts and troubles to You, to put to good use. Use me to help others, because of what I have been through. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and be used of God to make beauty from ashes.
Just as there is no shortage of problems and crises, there is no shortage of God's grace. Think about the good that God was able to bring out of your painful past. Perhaps you have never thought about that, the fact that God can use all your troubles in His plan for your life, but He will, if you will let Him.
God will not waste one moment of pain or sadness. Living in a fallen world, with people who have the ability to choose to act in hurtful ways, is what ushers in pain and sadness. Yet God is able to use our heartache to build our character, draw us closer to Him, and make us more effective in the area of ministry He has for each believer.
How did God use a painful moment in your life? Did you draw closer to Him? Did you find strength inside yourself that you didn't know you had? Did it turn you in a new direction? Were you protected from greater harm? Did it cause you to be empathetic with others, rather than just sympathetic? Are you able to share your life experience with others who are hurting, helping them to know what to do next? Have you been asked to share your faith with someone, because of a shared life experience? Did you learn to trust God and to let Him help you?
Romans 8:28 [NIV]
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Note: Italics used by writer.
What this has to do with weight loss: Every overweight person regrets the journey to obesity, whether that journey involved a prison of his/her own choosing or the fact that someone else held open the prison door and then locked him/her inside. For the believer, every prison door can be opened, the prisoner can walk free, and the prison experience can be used by God to make a difference in the life of someone else--to help free others.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I know that in all things You work for the good of those who love You, those who are called according to Your purpose, so that includes me. Today, I thank You for how You planned, in advance, to turn all my problems and crises into good--and that You have made that promise to all believers. It gives me enormous hope. Help me to remember always that You are my compassionate, caring Father. I give all my hurts and troubles to You, to put to good use. Use me to help others, because of what I have been through. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and be used of God to make beauty from ashes.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #3 [Confusion]
Are you confused about anything? The word confusion is defined as "a state of disorder, upheaval, tumult, chaos; lack of clearness; perplexity, bewilderment." Confusion can cloud your judgment and cause you to fail to move forward in your life.
Confusion causes you to say, "I don't know what to do." What is your greatest area of confusion? Perhaps your area of confusion is in your finances, your career, your relationships, your spirituality, or how to balance life, in general. Any area where you feel overwhelmed, where you don't know where to begin, is an area of confusion.
While "God is not the author of confusion" (I Corinthians 14:33, KJV), He can work it out for good (Romans 8:28). God can use your state of confusion to nudge you to listen more closely for His voice of direction; to encourage you to pay attention to your past missteps, so you don't repeat them; or give you the opportunity to experience His "peace that surpasses all understanding" (Philippians 4:7, NKJV), as you muddle through the mire of confusion to a state of clarity.
James 1:5 [NIV]
"If any of you lacks wisdom, he[/she] should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him [/her]." Note: Information in brackets added by writer.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey can be full of confusion: the decision to have weight-loss surgery, how to afford it, whether or not to tell friends and family, and, last but not least, how to eat/exercise/live post-surgery. Add to those things the magnification of any pre-surgery relationship issues, and you've got confusion! The Lord desires that you come to Him for clarity and wisdom. Partner with Him, and, in time, out of your confusion will come wisdom, clarity, and purpose.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I admit that I lack wisdom in the area of __________. I ask You, 'who give generously to all, without finding fault,' to fill me with wisdom. Thank You for reminding me that I am not alone in any of life's quandaries and that Your light will clear up any confusion, as I turn to You for help. Help me to hear Your voice, Your wisdom, and Your truth. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, in wisdom and clarity.
Confusion causes you to say, "I don't know what to do." What is your greatest area of confusion? Perhaps your area of confusion is in your finances, your career, your relationships, your spirituality, or how to balance life, in general. Any area where you feel overwhelmed, where you don't know where to begin, is an area of confusion.
While "God is not the author of confusion" (I Corinthians 14:33, KJV), He can work it out for good (Romans 8:28). God can use your state of confusion to nudge you to listen more closely for His voice of direction; to encourage you to pay attention to your past missteps, so you don't repeat them; or give you the opportunity to experience His "peace that surpasses all understanding" (Philippians 4:7, NKJV), as you muddle through the mire of confusion to a state of clarity.
James 1:5 [NIV]
"If any of you lacks wisdom, he[/she] should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him [/her]." Note: Information in brackets added by writer.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey can be full of confusion: the decision to have weight-loss surgery, how to afford it, whether or not to tell friends and family, and, last but not least, how to eat/exercise/live post-surgery. Add to those things the magnification of any pre-surgery relationship issues, and you've got confusion! The Lord desires that you come to Him for clarity and wisdom. Partner with Him, and, in time, out of your confusion will come wisdom, clarity, and purpose.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I admit that I lack wisdom in the area of __________. I ask You, 'who give generously to all, without finding fault,' to fill me with wisdom. Thank You for reminding me that I am not alone in any of life's quandaries and that Your light will clear up any confusion, as I turn to You for help. Help me to hear Your voice, Your wisdom, and Your truth. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, in wisdom and clarity.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #2 [Perseverance]
To persevere means "to persist in pursuing something in spite of obstacles or opposition." Think back on your life. When did you persevere, kept at something until you accomplished it? What caused you to keep going, with long-term stamina? Why was giving up not an option?
Perhaps your mission, your goal, was God-given, even if you didn't realize it at the time. There was an inner prompting to restore a relationship, heal from abuse, forgive an offender, begin a ministry, or find a new job. Perhaps there was an encouraging inner push to raise your demanding toddler with patience, pray for an unsaved spouse, be a godly witness during a crisis, or wait patiently for your dream to materialize.
Persevering, despite trials and obstacles, is God-given and God-honoring. Pray, and decide where you believe God wants you to be ten years from now, then take the first step in that direction. Yes, the first step is the hardest, but God will help you take the second step, if you take the first one. Continue to pray with faith...expectant faith, and keep going.
Romans 5:3-4
"...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." [NIV]
What this has to do with weight loss: Perhaps you are newly out from weight-loss surgery, are in the soft-food stage of eating, and experiencing a stall. Even though you know that stall is common, it's still frustrating. Perhaps you are looking at the many pounds you need to lose, and it seems like such a daunting, discouraging task. Remind yourself that if you know the Lord, you are not alone. He will help you to keep going, one day, one pound, at a time. Don't give up five minutes before your miracle.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, help me to learn to rejoice in my journey and to rejoice in every obstacle, trial and suffering, because I know that 'suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.' Today, I pray that I will become a woman/man of extreme perseverance, not letting delays and difficulties discourage me. I ask, especially, for persistence that will build my character and give me hope, when I'm in Life's waiting room. Help me to see that it's actually easier for me to persevere than to live with the regret of having given up hope and let go of a dream. Thank You for Your gift of perseverance. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and persevere!
Perhaps your mission, your goal, was God-given, even if you didn't realize it at the time. There was an inner prompting to restore a relationship, heal from abuse, forgive an offender, begin a ministry, or find a new job. Perhaps there was an encouraging inner push to raise your demanding toddler with patience, pray for an unsaved spouse, be a godly witness during a crisis, or wait patiently for your dream to materialize.
Persevering, despite trials and obstacles, is God-given and God-honoring. Pray, and decide where you believe God wants you to be ten years from now, then take the first step in that direction. Yes, the first step is the hardest, but God will help you take the second step, if you take the first one. Continue to pray with faith...expectant faith, and keep going.
Romans 5:3-4
"...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." [NIV]
What this has to do with weight loss: Perhaps you are newly out from weight-loss surgery, are in the soft-food stage of eating, and experiencing a stall. Even though you know that stall is common, it's still frustrating. Perhaps you are looking at the many pounds you need to lose, and it seems like such a daunting, discouraging task. Remind yourself that if you know the Lord, you are not alone. He will help you to keep going, one day, one pound, at a time. Don't give up five minutes before your miracle.
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, help me to learn to rejoice in my journey and to rejoice in every obstacle, trial and suffering, because I know that 'suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.' Today, I pray that I will become a woman/man of extreme perseverance, not letting delays and difficulties discourage me. I ask, especially, for persistence that will build my character and give me hope, when I'm in Life's waiting room. Help me to see that it's actually easier for me to persevere than to live with the regret of having given up hope and let go of a dream. Thank You for Your gift of perseverance. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and persevere!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #1 [Be Fearless]
Through research, I've found 533 documented phobias. A phobia is defined as "a persistent, irrational fear of a specific object, activity, or situation that leads to a compelling desire to avoid it." If you think about it, almost any noun (person, place, thing, or idea) can be connected to a phobia.
The majority of us do not have to deal with a phobia. However, most of us deal with fear, in some form. How would you respond if I asked you, "What are you afraid of?" That fear can be a positive impetus, causing you to seek God's strength and power, or it can be a negative impetus, keeping you from trying new things, including that which would help you fulfill God's plan for your life.
God tells us not to be afraid ("Fear not," "Do not be afraid," "Have courage," etc.) 365 times, in the Bible. That's one God-Encouraging word for every day of the year! God knows that fear is the strongest weapon of the Enemy (Satan). Determine to uncover and root out every fear in your life. God will help you be able to do that.
Joshua 1:9 [NLT]
"'This is My command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.'"
What this has to do with weight loss: Perhaps you have done hard work to remove fear, only to discover that you have one more--the fear that, even with weight-loss surgery, you won't be able to lose your excess weight, or you fear that the pounds will return. You may have so much weight to lose that it seems impossible, but "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I know You want me to 'be strong and courageous.' You have told me to 'not be afraid or discouraged' and that You are 'with [me] wherever [I] go.' Today, I pray that I will learn to trust You more and more. Help me to track my progress toward freedom from fear, so that I can always remember how far You've brought me. I thank You, in advance, for delivering me from all my fears. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and be fearless!
The majority of us do not have to deal with a phobia. However, most of us deal with fear, in some form. How would you respond if I asked you, "What are you afraid of?" That fear can be a positive impetus, causing you to seek God's strength and power, or it can be a negative impetus, keeping you from trying new things, including that which would help you fulfill God's plan for your life.
God tells us not to be afraid ("Fear not," "Do not be afraid," "Have courage," etc.) 365 times, in the Bible. That's one God-Encouraging word for every day of the year! God knows that fear is the strongest weapon of the Enemy (Satan). Determine to uncover and root out every fear in your life. God will help you be able to do that.
Joshua 1:9 [NLT]
"'This is My command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.'"
What this has to do with weight loss: Perhaps you have done hard work to remove fear, only to discover that you have one more--the fear that, even with weight-loss surgery, you won't be able to lose your excess weight, or you fear that the pounds will return. You may have so much weight to lose that it seems impossible, but "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).
Prayer for Today:
"Heavenly Father, I know You want me to 'be strong and courageous.' You have told me to 'not be afraid or discouraged' and that You are 'with [me] wherever [I] go.' Today, I pray that I will learn to trust You more and more. Help me to track my progress toward freedom from fear, so that I can always remember how far You've brought me. I thank You, in advance, for delivering me from all my fears. I pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen."
Go forth today, and be fearless!
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