Change - It's Not a Bad Word!

 

"And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."  Romans 12:1-2 (NLT)

Over 33 months ago I began my journey to Become a Healthier Me.  I knew when I began my journey that my life would change – but I could have never imagined just how much my life would change – for the better!  

The first process of my journey was preparing for the spiritual and mental battles that I would be experiencing.  I utilized a bible study by Mary Englund Murphy, Winning the Battle of the Bulge, It’s Not Just About the Weight (http://www.lookingglassministries.com/books.htm ), which was extremely  instrumental in my preparation.  I began this study while going through the 6 months of weight loss surgery classes.  It was during this personal bible study that the above mentioned bible scripture came to life in my mind, body and spirit.  I had memorized Romans 12:1-2 many years ago in youth group and have used these scriptures to minister to others – but I never really applied it in every aspect of my life – especially my eating habits.  The other scripture that jumped between my eyes was   “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV).

As Christians so much of our fellowship with others resolves around food.  We use these scriptures to “preach” to others concerning alcohol, drug abuse or other “big” sins; yet in God’s eyes sin is sin – including overeating!  

I finally became convicted that I was not glorifying my Lord and Savior with my body.  I not only had to give my body to Him, but I had to change the way I think as well.  In today’s day and age the thinking is: “It’s my body so I can do what I want”; But if we truly want to live for the Lord and please Him as well, then we need to change our thinking and instead say, “Lord, here is my body – it’s yours to do as You please – may everything I think about, do, eat, drink glorify You and You alone”.   When I said the aforementioned to the Lord, and changed my way of thinking, I changed my behavior to please Him, my life changed in ways I could not have imagined!  

One of the most obvious and biggest changes has been the 210 lbs. of weight loss.  Yes, it’s not a misprint – that right - 210 pounds!  Shaved off 37 BMI points!  Dropped 34 inches off the hips; 30 inches off my waist; 8 inches off my neck!  13 pant sizes!  Physical change – YES!

Another change has been and continues to be the mental changes.  There are times I still see the other person with all that weight – let’s face it – the last time I have been the size I am currently was almost 30 years ago!  The majority of my adult life!  

Most of all and more importantly has been the spiritual change which has occurred.  I know this may sound strange to some considering I have been in the ministry for 40 years!  But in a way, none of us have “achieved” perfection (not until we enter heaven) – we are all and should always be a work in progress – not regress- or standing still.  When I completely surrendered my whole body – every part of my body and life to Christ – I gave up my will, and His will and purpose for my life became my life and purpose.  When I gave every aspect of my life – including my eating habits – I became a new person; a more peaceful, joyful, grateful, and confident (confident because I am resting in Him, not me) person.  I even teach others how they too can Become a Healthier Me.  Who would have thought!  Not me!  

So, “change” – it’s not a bad word!  It can be a healthy word!  If the Lord empowered me to change – physically, mentally and spiritually in my late 50’s, then you can too at whatever age, size or circumstance you find yourself in today.  Just commit your whole body – every aspect of your life- including those “secret” places of your heart to the Lord.  In so doing you too will find peace, joy, contentment beyond measure!