In that my pants have decided to get smaller by the week, this morning I decided that it’s time to bite the bullet and cut back on some foods. Well, I’m two hours into my diet, and I’m just not feeling it. I’m hungry. I don’t want the prescribed healthy menu. I want chocolate. Lots of it. In various forms. Sundae, brownie, cheesecake—all of them sound fabulous! But I am standing firm . ..at least for now . .because in the end it will be worth it. I will fit into my jeans again without the sickening suck-in-and-button-and-hope-for-the-best scenario.
I would love it if good things came with little or no effort, but that’s just not reality. Whether we are disciplining the body or the spirit, both require fortitude. We say no to what is unhealthy so that we can say yes to what is healthy, even when our desires are screaming bloody murder every step of the way. Spiritually speaking, if I want to walk in God’s best for my life, I choose to read my Bible when I would much rather watch a movie; I spend time with the Lord when my flesh wants to take a nap. Why? Because knowing Him and being healthy on the inside is worth the investment. The Holy Spirit grows the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, and I need all of those things to be a good Mom, Worker, Minister, Friend, Daughter, Wife, and so on. If I want to live this life with no regrets, then physical and spiritual discipline will be part of that journey. Oh, and there’s another bonus to hanging out with the Holy Spirit—He gives the fruit of self-control. (Praise Hands!). So goodbye chocolate . . . for today. I will return to you soon, Sweet Friend!
I definitely needed this reminder today. Thank you!