A Triple-Braided Cord
Published April 7, 2010Many of you have made your way here via the devotion I have running on Proverbs 31 and Crosswalk.com. If you haven’t read it yet, you might be lost so click here to get caught up with the rest of us. 
Don’t forget to come back!
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Have you ever had a sister or two who joined you in the midst of a battle? Or perhaps you have been such a person for one of your dear friends. God’s directions to us are clear; living a life of faith means connecting with others. We weren’t meant to march alone.
If you have been looking for a support network when it comes to dealing with the addictive tendency to over-eat and under-exercise, you are not alone. Here on this blog you will find a group of cyber sisters who too are in the thick of the battle. We’d LOVE to have you join us.
You can click on the Weight Loss Wednesday link in the sidebar and leave a comment on the last post listed there (and read the others if you desire more encouragement and ideas). Or, just simply begin joining us each Wednesday. You don’t need to tell us what you weigh. You can tell us if the scale went up or down or how you are doing emotionally. You can vent, encourage, pray, joke. Just be our friend in our collective journey to health.
And, as a special incentive, today I am offering a “jump-start weight loss giveaway” compliments not only of me, but of my other two strands, Lysa TerKeurst and Shari Braendel. We are banding together to offer the following “basket-in-a-box” to one of you who leaves a comment on this post. It includes:
- From Lysa for your inner beauty: Lysa’s mission is to lead women in the adventure of faith. So, she is giving away a signed copy of her latest book Becoming More Than A Good Bible Study Girl. Learning to live out your faith in a tangible and real way will assist you in your journey to health. This book will show you how.
- From me for your kitchen connection: A sunny set of citrus-y recipe cards to record some new healthy kitchen concoctions. Six bags of my favorite herb teas including two each of Passion Fruit, White Tea-Raspberry and Chocolate Hazelnut. And some “one-size-fits-all” Bath and Body Works White Citrus body lotion. One of my favorite scents!
- From Shari for Your Outer Beauty: Shari is Proverbs 31′s resident fashionista. She is giving an awesome accessory that will flatter anyone trying to lose weight: a beautiful turquoise jewelry piece!
Okay gals….hop on and leave a comment. If you are a regular Weight Loss Wednesday gal, check in as normal letting us know how your week went. If you are new, just tell us what your goal is for weight loss or exercise or health. Or, if time is tight, just say “I’m in!”
And….if you also visit Lysa or Shari’s blog, your name will be entered each time you comment there. Shari has a related post up about what to wear while you are losing weight that you won’t want to miss!
The winner will be announced Monday.
Glad to have you be a strand in our ever-thickening cord. Leave your comments!
Braided Blessings,
971 Responses to A Triple-Braided Cord
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This is really shocking to me! I was in bed, sound to sleep,and some reason I woke up and I couldn’t go back to sleep. I am a christian lady, and have been for a long time,but I have had some pretty hard times lately.Every thing seems to be out of synk! I was laying there asking God to please forgive me for the way I have been feeling lately. I decided to get up, turn on the computer, and read yesterdays encouragement for the day. After looking up the scriptures and reading it 5 different times, I read encouragement for today; Didn’t know this site was here. I’m glad I did! I need as much encouragement as I can get for my weight proublem. I fight it all the time. My son past away 8 yrs. ago, and even though I know for sure that he went home to be with his true father,I let my food addictions take over!I am 130 lbs. over weight. I have just stopped eating suger the first of the yr. and had a set back a couple wks. ago. I got really depressed about it and started taking it out on anyone I could, including God. Any support you ladies could give me to get back on track would be truely appreciated. I truely need women in my life who care, and I can talk to, because truth is I don’t have that in my life. I’m the care taker, so people don’t seem to realize I need someone in my corner also now and then. Thank you so much. Judy
Not being able to sleep I logged in on my blackberry and its amazing how the devotion for today applied to just what I needed. In the last 5 yrs I have become too comfortable “in my skin”. Now to the point of realizing that being negligent has added 30 lbs.and no longer happy with myself. At 51 yrs old I want to feel good about myself again.The devotion today is a Godsend. Thank you for being there at 3 am.I will look forward to Wed. and utilizing the ministry to walk with me as I start this journey.Blessings to Proverbs 31.
I so needed this encouragement! I just started weight watchers and my “cord” lives across the US, and my sister “cord” isnt near either! Thanks for the encouragement to reach out!
Good Morning……..
It seems I am in good company for the women who have this on going battle with “comfort food” as a way of dealing with stress. Since quitting smoking 7 years ago, I have gained over 100 pounds……….So now I weigh in at 204……..While it is a good thing that I have quit smoking, it is not great that I am packing all this extra weight. I am a small boned person, I am not tall, (5 feet 1 inches tall) and all my joints hurt so badly from carrying weight that I was never meant to carry. At the time I quit smoking I was 110 pounds, I looked great and I felt good, except for that nasty cough at night waking my husband up………Since quitting smoking, I have been diagnosed with COPD and I am on inhalers, 3 different ones. However, Last spring I started a walking program as well as a weight loss program called PRISM………I lost 47 pounds, worked up to walking 3 times a week for one mile…..That was so great, and got me in shape for the Relay for Life 24 hour relay walk that I participate in every year………..I was able to walk the track at Relay without gasping and stoping every few minutes on the track……It was wonderful. After ReLay was over, my husband I went to visit his brother in Idaho on a lake, and the comfort food eating started, and since that time I have gained back the weight and put on more……At the time of this writing, my knees, my hip joints, my ankle joints, my whole body really just hurts……So I know what I need to do, and also I am a heart patient so this is not good this extra weight……I take medications for heart, blood pressure, congestive heart failure meds………I know that I can get off of these medications as I have done it before simply by walking
to increase my energy level, become more fit and by keeping it off for 90 days the Dr. will reduce the amount of medication I am taking………so today 4-7-2010 I AM starting to walk 30 minutes every day I have a goal in mind……..first goal is to lose 10 pounds by June first……then to make a new weight loss goal, and to increase my time of walking from 30 minutes to 45 minutes every day………It will take me awhile to build up to this but I am going to do it…….I know I feel so much better when I do. I sleep better at night also……..
So Count me in your group of women who are in the same boat and who want to just feel better, be more healthy .
Thanks, I feel so much better reading all of the posts, and knowing I am not alone in this battle.
Marilyn Caudill
My husband runs marathons but I have a foot pain that only allows me to wear open toed shoes. This morning as I asked him was he going to do his usual early morning run as practice for his up coming marathon race, I said, “I need to go outside and walk too”.
I am 20 pounds overweight and at 5 foot 2 inches. If I’m not careful I could become much more overweight. So my goal is 20 pounds loss. I don’t care if it’s two pounds a month and takes 10 months. Trouble is, I haven’t been consistent enough in the small but steady consistent changes in food and exercise to achieve that in the several years I’ve had that same goal! I gained one pound this week. Thanks for listening.
Patty in FL
My 16 year old son committed suicide last November. I hid my sorrow and despair behind food, food and more food. I have always been the “yo-yo diet poster child” but I’m back up to almost 200 pounds. For awhile I didn’t care and just thought it was a way to be with my son again, but I have a son here too (only 11) and I can’t leave him. I need to lose the weight so I can be here for my son and I need to find my way back to God. I was a very busy layspeaker when my son died. Now I can’t even sit in a pew without tears streaming down my face and all I can think about is my Justin and food, of course. I need strength and encouragement, from my sisters and from my God.
Very helpful to remind us to connect with others and use support systems to keep on track. I was reminded that this is needed in many areas of life. Also a weightwatcher, I have been at goal 3 times now. Usually, I do a “touch and go” staying at goal a few weeks. This time it has been a few months. I set goal weight at the very top of the range, and know that I really need to lose 10 more pounds and be faithful to exercise. My goal is to be healthy so I can serve my Lord. I have not been “on track” (exercise or counting points) for several weeks now – so in need of motivation to get going.
Good morning. I love your pages. I am trying to get rid of 20 pounds that I have put back on and it is hard. In 2001, I weighed 325 pounds and like you, I had a LOT of medical problems. I now weigh in at 170 pounds. I decided to start getting rid of the excess pounds by telling myself that I did not have to “clean my plate” that was instilled into my brain from childhood (I am 50+ and still hear my dad’s voice). I would like to join the Wednesday Weight Loss program. I really need the push because I can’t do it alone. Thank you and God Bless.
how do I fight the urge to eat in the middle of the night?
Thank you so much for being transparent about your weight issues. I currently have at least 100 lbs. to lose and had really fallen off the wagon the past few weeks. It’s easy for me to lose sight of the future, of all that I would be able to do with my children, of the freedom to minister in other ways, etc.
Thanks again for the encouragement!
well count me in!
Just entered this site this am. It is a cold wet dreary morning as I read your blog and it has truly brightened my day. TKS Rose
Good Morning! What a perfect devotion for me today! Weight “issues” have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My mom struggled with her weight throughout my childhood and now although she seems indifferent to it, I know it still plagues her. Seeing her struggle I think made me more aware of my own weight. I’ve never been “terribly” overweight and there’s always been someone who’s “worse off” than me, so too often I convince myself that one more piece of candy or one more dessert won’t hurt. But it always does. I constantly beat myself up about what I eat and how I look. Now that I have a daughter I’m much more aware of this inner conversation though. I don’t want her to hear what I heard all my life. I want her to look at herself through God’s eyes, not the eyes of the world. I know in my heart that she’s looking to me for how to view her body and I know that means I’ve got to get my act together.
A dear friend started dieting about 6 months ago and while watching the pounds fall off of her, I found a new sense of determination. I’ve been at it for 3 weeks now and I’ve lost 8 pounds. But for about a week I’ve kind of hit a wall. Just this morning when I got on that scale, I felt my spirit sink. Thanks for the reminder that I’m not in this battle alone. And the reminder that yes, this is a battle. Too often I convince myself that this is a petty thing that doesn’t compare to other issues in life. That it’s a silly thing to worry about. But it’s not silly. It’s the condition of my heart and nothing about that is silly.
Thanks so much for your devotion today. For sharing part of yourself with me. May God bless you beyond measure!
Hello. It is amazing how God works in so many areas in your life when He needs to speak with you about one thing. I topped my 210 lbs cracking point this week and don’t like how I look. I see the folds and saggy baby belly (which is just about 3 years old) staring at me in the mirror and I am unhappy. With small children I find it hard to exercise due to time constraints and a new more demanding job. These are all excuses that God is patiently trying to work me through and I am hopeful that I can make the change he wants me to. Thank you for your ministry and it is nice to know that there are other women out there struggling in the same way.
I’m in!!! This is an answer to prayer, and I praise God for leading me here.
I know for awhile I have needed to loose weight. I recently went to the dr for continual strep throat, to have him test for mono. Which I have and high blood sugar. Of course after the fasting it was still high. So I have to loose weight.
I have been doing the comfort food thing. We live in an area where we have no one around.
Financially we have had it rough. My mom died in September. So my dad and sisters live 7 hours away. They all ignore me. And even when I up there visiting my daughter and grandkids, they don’t seem to care to see me. I make all the effort.
I so need to be around women who understand. Thanks for this
Count me in! I am so excited to find this! I work full time and go to school full time, so going to a weekly group meeting is just not an option for me right now. I especially like this because it is GOD centered. I am looking forward to supporting you all through prayer, losing 50 lbs, and gaining new friends!
It is true that God is always speaking to us – using many different ways to reach into our hearts and minds. He promises to lead us in the right path. This devotion was exactly what I needed to hear from God today. I have a similar story as everyone else who wrote in this morning – a lifetime battle with an addiction to food. I am reminded especially at Easter that God can do anything – even raise Jesus from the dead – and that same power is available to us to make changes in our own lives…even breaking the chains that have held us captive all our iives. Surrender is the key and loving ourselves in the process is crucial. We can do it together and with God. I need to lose 20 pounds and I would like to join in with you all. So I’m in!!
hay this is great to find! i have been struggling to lose weight lose some put some back on as my partned and i wnat to have another baby and have beeen having problems doctor said losing weight would help. i will pray for u all and hope that u all have some success. i dont know many christian women where i live and find it hard to make new friends so i am hoping to connect to more christian peolpe who can offer me the support i need. i thank god for this oppurtunity, and all the blessing he gives me. god bless you all.
Wow-what a treasure that God has allowed me to find! I am a missionary that served overseas for almost nine years and I returned to the States two years ago to serve my people group domestically in the US. Well, I had forgotten how the fast paced life, over the top portions and fast paced American lifestyle tend to add on pounds if you aren’t paying attention (not to mention an “older metabolism” on my part!). In two years I had gained over 30 pounds and felt sick about it! I hated photos of myself and was tired all of the time, which I can’t do-my husband and I minister to refugees and have three kids (two are teenagers) who need us to run around with them!!! Sooooo….I started exercising and am on my way to losing the weight I put on but it ISN”T EASY!!!! Every day is a battle-and this isn’t just the only battle I face! Teenagers, lots and lots of needs in the ministry, financial concerns etc! I am so glad I have some “sisters” to call on at least in one area of the struggles! Thanks so much-I am excited and encouraged!
I went back and read all the blogs. My heart aches to see how many Christian women are hurting. Some of you losing children, I can not even imagine how painful that is (and pray that I never truly find out). My heart is heavy for you ladies.
Remember though that God understands ALL of your pain. He has been there and done that. He knows about having your child die, He knows 1st hand about being shunned, riduculed, laughed at, and abandoned. Know that you have acceptance here but most importantly, you have ACCEPTANCE IN HIM!!!!
Glad to meet you! I have battled my weight for many years. At my biggest a size 22 (15 years ago) at my smallest 6 (only a year ago) and currently 14…When I read today’s devotion, I wondered what friends I could call and the answer (sadly) was no one. So, I thought I’d find some new friends and begin again. Today happens to be my birthday- what a great day for a new beginning!
Count me in, like so many others I would love to lose about 20 pounds, but I have so many stresses in my life right now. My husband is lost his job in January and to compensate for the stress I bake goodies every week. Plus I know I need to exercise more, eat healthier and eat smaller portions.
I am looking forward to the support.
I’m in! Thank you so much for this devotional. I was very thin in high school, but after that it all went downhill. I have yo-yo’d several times, each time gaining more than I had to lose the previous time.
I now find myself in the worst shape ever at 35 – from my starting point I had 130-135 lbs to lose. I have started weight watchers online and have lost 23 of them, but I still have a long way to go.
We can all use encouragement in Him and from each other.
Thank you!
Your devotion on crosswalk was EXACTLY what I needed to hear. I am 21 years old and almost 300 pounds. This past week I started eating better and exercising, but I feel alone in all of this and have caved in the eating area already. Your devotion showed me that I really need to find a support group. I need to do this for myself. My whole life is in front of me and I need to make a change. Thank you for showing what the next step for me is!
I’m so totally in! Struggling with losing 10 more pounds ever since having my four children but finding the time to work out is so hard! Love reading all the encouragement!
I am so excited to read about your weight loss….I have visited your blog once in awhile and always thought you were one of those “detestable” women who just were naturally thin. WOW! You really are one of us….you can be sure I’ll be checking in with you in the future! THANKS!
I am so glad I found this!! I am a Weight Watchers member, but I’ve been struggling for several weeks. I’ve lost almost 20 lbs. I had knee surgery a few weeks ago, and seem to have lost my momentum. My activity is still somewhat limited due to the surgery. I’m trying to get back on track, but have been very discouraged. I need to lose another 70 lbs. Thanks for making this available. Just reading that others are struggling helps me know I can do this!! Thanks!
I woke up this morning feeling down (again), thinking about these 44 pounds that I have gained again (a cycle of gaining and losing about 6 times over the last 11 years) and I felt the word of God in a very real way. I felt like God was saying to me, “I’m here, I have always been here, when will you realize that through me ALL things are possible.” I realized that I had still, despite all the wonderful things I have been learning the last month about HIM, not be placing my trust in him. Why is that I would pour my heart, soul, and money into Weight Watchers, or whatever latest plan is out there—but put my heart, soul and yes, money into HIM? I realized this morning that I really don’t put any faith into the Lord when it comes to how my body should look.
Count me in.
Good Morning,
It so wonderful to wake up to God speaking to you through another child of his. For the past sevearl years I have so struggled with my weight. I have been jeolous of others who were not overweight thus leaving me feeling depressed and even angry at myself for having those feelings of jealousy. I know that God is trying to teach me something in this process. Most importantly as you have stated to turn to him in my times of frustrations and worries. I have dieted, taken weightloss pills, and to no sucess. Thank you so much for sharing your devotion, today I will turn to my Father or rather my daddy God and begin a new journey. Please pray for God’s divine wisdom for me. I truly desire to be a temple that is healthy and that rightly represents who my God is! Blessings:)
Let me just begin by saying that God is good all the time, and His timing is perfect!!! I am 33 and have had a life long struggle with weight. After my second child was born, I dropped 40 pounds, was exercising regularly, and had even gotten off of all asthma medications. However, in June of 2009, my husband lost his job and the stress began. He was only out of work for about six weeks, but the financial strain was very great. We moved during the Summer in order to save on rent. Then, the Friday before Thanksgiving he lost another job. This, combined with the inherent stress of the holidays, caused even greater amounts of stress. We also had problems with the people from whom we rented at the new house, and chose to move again. So, through the stress of two job losses and two moves coupled with a very tough school year (I am a teacher of behaviorally challenged special needs student),I had gained all of my weight plus an additional 20. I weigh more now than I have ever weighed with the exception of the day that I gave birth to my second child. I can’t wear any of my clothes, and I just feel AWFUL! So last Wednesday, I decided that enough was enough, and started counting Weight Watcher points. This morning when I checked my daily Prverbs 31 Devotion, there was Karen’s story for today! A week into this battle, I am doing better, but not great. I struggle with sweets, and Easter was last Sunday. I need prayer for self-control in a big way!!! My ultimate goal in to lose 100 lbs, but I know that I can’t look that far ahead. I just want to fit back into my Spring wardrobe for teaching! So my first goal is 20 lbs.
After a call from my doctor’s office yesterday saying “severe arthritis” I have renewed motivation to take off an extra 15 or 20 pounds. Happy to find some sisters in this, especially with health as a focus!
Thank you so very much for the devotion and for this form of encouragement. it is a difficult battle. one of not only weight but pride, embarrassment, and denial. i know i am over weight, had joined weight watchers a gift from a friend concerned that I would be dead otherwise within the year. I was doing well, then I had a total knee replacement and surgery & recovery was very difficult. I regained the 50 lbs. I had lost and then some. I am back to where I was 3 years ago. I have cardiac issues, diabetes, and respiratory problems and am on oxygen. I have battled and won a fight against 5 different forms of Cancer,(Breast, Melanoma,Thyroid, Lymph & Liver) yet this weight issue is something else. Growing up my Mother would tell me “you have such a pretty face if you would only lose some weight” at that time I weighed less than 128. So there you have it…Please help, I am at the end of my rope and due to the weight…it is fraying FAST! I gave my life to The Lord July 4th, 1976. I know He is with me. Please help me in this battle….it is for my life! God Bless & Thank you.
Hi I’m Janet new here from Proverbs 31 – I have been struggling with my weight since my twins were born 10 years ago. I am now in my mid 40′s and have almost 100 pounds to lose. I am at the end of my rope with quick fixes and don’t know where to turn, can you help me here?
I seem to be a yo yo, I will lose a few gain more . Being a diabetic and having some rough spots in life since November I have gained more. I seem to have lost so much of my desire not only in losing but in spending time with God. I have taken a break from leading women’s studies to allow a much needed rest, but somehow I have lost my drive to even have my quite time. Reading this devotion this morning and realizing my lack of passion has helped me open my eyes to areas I need to step into. It is a process but one I know I can do. Thank you for sharing, I look forward to joining you on Wednesdays.
Wow. Karen E, isn’t this is a lot of replies for so early in the morning? All these internet “threads” to be braided together for strength. Welcome new friends! May you be encouraged in joining us as we share Karen’s messages and insights.
Am still doing about the same on the scale. Struggling to get the next 5# off. Still moderately exercising. Annual checkup shows the best numbers since 2003, when I was 15# lighter.
A blessed week to all. God loves us!
Okay…count me in too. This is a step out of my comfort zone. I don’t blog, and I’ve never chatted on sites before. I am however, desperate. I need to lose 50+ lbs. My husband is a minister and he lost his job 9 months ago. Your story connected with me. It has been such a rough time for us. We had lived in a parsonage, so had to move. We live in a rented house and don’t know where we will go next. Our parents are ill, and I need to keep my job for benefits – so we can’t move far. Because of financial constraints we are buying cheaper food to make the money stretch. No fresh foods. Still…that is all excuses. I drown myself in food because I am hurt and lonely and struggling in my faith. My friends have always been my church family…and now it feels like we are on a deserted island. God is good though. He fulfills all of our needs and I just need to continue to trust him with our future and not resort to finding comfort in food!
i just read your story on “encouragemnet for today”. i am 51 years old, a 5 yr cancer survivor, had numerous surgeries, a bad set of lungs which cause me to take steroids too often and extremely overweight. i started a weight loss program yesterday. i am encourged by your story. the Lord has healed me so many times and brought me through the darkest periods. thank you for the honesty.
God bless
kim
Thanks so much for Weight Loss Wednesdays! I am also trying to get my weight under control. I have been convicted that my gluttony is not glorifying my Lord. I, with His help want to be not only thinner but healthier. At the present I do not have any close friends where I live (they have moved away) so having this group of amazing women who are struggling with the same issues I am is so encouraging. I am looking forward to Wednesday and am encouraged today. I can do this and not be miserable anymore!
I am so encouraged by everyone’s honesty. Praying for each of you and can I just say, “doesn’t karen rock?” Thanks girl for being so vulnerable and open to allow women into your weight-struggling life…and for all who are reading this, remember that YOU rock, too….fluffy or not….(it’s not fat anymore, it’s only fluffy!) Love you guys!
Like so many comments I’ve just read, this story has really touched me. I have battled weight gain all of my life and I’m now 48 years old and am morbidly obese. I hate those words! It’s hard to say and it’s hard to live. I am not a yo-yo dieter, I rarely lose–I just have a nice and steady slow rise. Being overweight is in my genes, my father’s family is all overweight. We all battle this. Recently, I’ve discovered, I’m an emotional eater–I eat when I’m stressed, when I’m bored, when I’m overjoyed–food is my emotional crutch. Your story this morning touched me deep inside. I’m praying that I can be strong and turn to the Lord for my emotional strength and not turn to food. Why is that so difficult? It seems like it would be so easy but it is not for me. I need to lose about 150 pounds and I just don’t know how to even start. I’ve been on Weight Watchers and it works for a while and then I fall off. Financially, I can’t afford it any more. My life is so full of helping others that I can’t step back and help myself. There are just too many others that I need to care for but I have to, some way, take care of me before there is no more me left. I pray I can find the strength, some how, some way.
Wow… God is so good and faithful to send me just what I need when I need it. I have been fighting the battle of the food for years and years… Lately.. I have been praying about and bam… God sends me to your website..
Thank You God… Girls count me in! I am going to begin on my journey yet again! This time with a couple of more strands braided in.
I was so encouraged by all the posts to this link. I have had weight loss surgery to avoid the health problems my sister and my mother have. I still have to diet and exercise though and as a phlegmatic personality that is the last thing I want to do. It takes to much energy after teaching third graders all day.
Thanks for your inspiration. I am a true food addict–if I didn’t have to eat to live I could quit cold turkey. But you all know I can’t. I;ve been working on portion control and not buying anything that can’t go in the mouth. I;ve lost 21 pounds in 7 weeks and my knees are loving it. Praying for the Lord to “create in me a clean heart” through right eating.
I started Weight Watchers on New Year’s Eve and did fine for the first 7-8 weeks. Lately, I have been struggling with hunger and snacking and starting to avoid weighing in and keep thinking I’ll go back next week. Now that six weeks have passed, I’ve been starting to give up, again. Thank you, Lord for this devotion and this opportunity to “bind” with my sisters in Christ and food issues.
I can relate to the devotion today. I plan to join Weight loss Wednesdays. What a great idea.
I am turning 70 in 4 months and was praying for someone or something to help me lose this weight once and for all. As I worked for Weight Watchers for 17 years you would think I would know better but when I retired things went to pot, literally! My Bible Study friends and I have met every Wednesday for the past year to support each other in this struggle. Thank you, thank you for this wonderful resource.
I read your devotional this morning and thought it was a tremendous idea. I also struggle with emotional eating, particularly because my family is 700 miles away. On tough days, or low energy days, I turn to sugar. I know this is my addiction and I am confronting it head on. How nice it will be to know that I am with others that have the same problem and that are praying for me. Thank you.
God has an amazing sense of humor. Recently, I joined a group of women who meet weekly to discuss a program that is designed to help women lose weight through prayer, meditation and supporting each other. I left the group just last week because of lies I told myself–my focus needs to be elsewhere, I really can’t commit, blah, blah, blah…
I always enjoy your daily devotions and when I read this morning’s devotion all I could do is laugh. I’m 46 and I’ve battled with my weight since I was a teenager to the point of using illegal drugs to stop me from being hungry and to exercise obsessively w/o pain. Now that I’m clean and sober, I’ve put on 80 plus pounds and developed severe back problems resulting in two back surgeries. Recently, my doctor told me that my blood pressure is elevated (it’s always been low) and he’s concerned. With all that, I still find myself not taking care of myself and making excuses. Well, today, after reading the devotion, I am committing myself to joining this band of sisters and I won’t make any more excuses not to take care of the body He’s given me.
Please keep me in prayer that I will be strengthened and keep myself accountable to my committment.
Wow, thank you for this devotion. This is EXACTLY where I am! I am a junk food junkie who is tired of it! About a week ago, I decided to stop procrastinating and do something about it! And so I started a very drastic diet that I hhope to make my lifestyle. It is based on Genesis 1:26 (I think) and is a plant based diet…no meat, no dairy, no eggs, no white sugar, no white flour. I will probably, eventually, add SOME things back in, but for now I have found I need this drastic step! In a little over a week, I have lost 5 pounds. I am not exercising much yet (although I homeschool four kids, there is a good bit of movement involved in that
! ) I have a heel spur that is pretty painful, but I am hoping to get more into the habit once I get that healed up!
My greatest success is coming from prayer and really asking myself if I NEED what I am putting in my mouth for nutrition or if I am using it as self medication. I have prayed A LOT and am really realizing how much I use food, especially sweets to make myself feel better.
Thanks so much for being here…I will definitely start linking up on Wednesdays!
God bless!
Hello ladies! This is just what I need! A few years ago while unemployed, I worked Weight Watchers online and lost 40 lbs, went to the gym 3 times a week, and did an exercise video on the off days. Then I went back to work, 3 family members went home to be with the Lord, and got divorced.
Here I sit now with that 40 lbs plus 20 more back. I joined a local gym a month ago and went for 2 weeks. I need encouragement and I truly pray the Lord sent me here for just that. Thanks in advance! I’m IN!
Wow! God is amazing! He knew I would need the devotional on Proverbs 31 today. I need help! I just can’t seem to get my head in the right place to do something about my weight. I know that I need to eat less, more healthy, and exercise, but I never seem to just do it. Please pray for me, that God will give me the desire to do all I need to do to be the woman he wants me to be.
Thank God for girlfriends. I have been fighting the battle of the bulge since my first child was born 40 something years ago. Finally decided I couldn’t get away with blaming the kids anymore. Seriously, for some of us it is a never ending battle to keep our weight under control. Right now I need to lose about 50 pounds. That’s more than a large bag of potting soil and I wouldn’t think of picking up a bag that heavy. But yet I carry it around on my body 24/7. How stupid is that?
One of the ways I am working on losing weight besides surrendering those 50 pounds to God and asking my friends to support me and pray for me is setting small goals. Losing fifty pounds is overwhelming but losing five pounds is doable. Five pounds in one month sounds reasonable. It actually took two months to lose the first five pounds, but, Praise God, I’m working on my second set of five pounds. It is not easy but I know with God on my side and my friends cheering me on I will be able to say goodbye to this extra fat.
Don’t give up, the best is yet to come!!!
Weight is not really the issue with me right now, but myself and another friend are acting as the other two cords to a mutual friend in a serious issue, thank you for your devotional and verses that I hope I was able to use to comfort her this morning. Love your blog, love your books, love that Winter White Citrus scent!:)
Thank you so much for this. I am struggling now. I have for several years – but I am at my wits end. I am getting it that I need to like myself first. I need to learn not to listen to all the voices in my head and love what God has given me and who he has made me. But, it is so very difficult for me to do. I am disgusted by how I look and I know that is not how the Lord wants me to feel!
Wow, ok Lord, way to remind me what you’ve been telling me day after day about my weight and my health! Thank you so much for re-motivating me today. My husband is a paraplegic and I stay at home as his sole caregiver. Lately, his health has been deteriorating and as he declines, the calories I shovel incline! Alot! I’ve been successful with weight watchers online, but then I get tired of being “deprived” and just eat and eat. In January, my doctor told me that my cholesterol was high and I am “pre-diabetic.” The solution??? weight loss! Of course that’s the solution, but how do you get there? Want to know a funny thing? I teach two bible studies during the week and tell all these women about the ploys of the enemy and the schemes that he uses to distract us from glorifying God. Hmmmm… anyone have an idea how I can practice what I preach? Thank you for the inspiration this morning. Today would be a good day to start!
I am always amazed at how perfect God is, even though I shouldn’t be. 3 weeks ago 2 friends and I went on a 5K walk for a charity and in the car afterward we talked about our struggle with weight and prayed for each other and checking in on our progress. Then today as I was reading Proverbs 31 devotional I see that we were following scripture naturally.
I have struggled with my weight for 17 years and now that my children are older I finally started taking time for my self and began walking daily 4 weeks ago. I am walking 2 miles a day now and eating healthy, low fat low carb and low sugar.
Not much weight has disappeared but my clothes are feeling looser. I am on my way!
I just read your devotion from Crosswalk and it just what I asked for. A few years ago I lost just about 60 lbs. and I had never felt that good in my life and even as teenager. After some major life with my marriage, husband health and job related issues I have gain it all back. I keep telling myself I can do it again but what little I get off, i return to over eating and gain it all back. My husband does not seem to understand that food is a major temptation to me, I believe that if it is a source of temptation remove it so your strong enough to handle. ( and with sweets I don’t know if I will ever be strong enough to handle it)
God is AMAZING and He knows EXACTLY what we need!!! I REALLY want and need to lose 30 lbs. I know I feel better and look better, it’s just a struggle to stay on track. I have several incentives but I’m still procrastinating. My husband and I are renewing our vows on May 8th and our daughter is getting married June 12th. I’m REALLY excited to have “friends” to share the journey with that are like-minded. In fact, I was just asking God to bring like-minded friends into my life! HE DOES ANSWER PRAYER!!! HE IS AWESOME!!! Please pray for me, I’m facing some fears and temptations that will be easier shared. Thank you for listening to God as you shared your heart today!
Karen, Your P31 devotion today brought me to tears. I have struggled with this in various stages my entire life. I will be jumping over to your Weight Loss Wednesday forum. Thank you for the devotion, this post, the forum, and the giveaway. God used this to meet me right where I am today, and I am so thankful to Him and to you. I am feeling more encouraged already!
I was so very blessed after opening up my email this morning and reading such wonderful encouraging words.. I have been battle with my weight for a very long time due to so many life changing events that has occurred in my life. I am currently facing a battle. I broke my ankle roller skating with my husband and kids and I’m currently recovering from surgery this is very challenging b/c I can not walk to much on my ankle and get around like I have been prior to this my accident. I was already battle working out so I can lose weight before the incident but now I barely have movement and I am still eating and just laying around. My goal was to lose atleast 30lbs now I am trying to figure out how can I lose weight or not gain much more weight with the battle that I am facing with little movement that I can do on my ankle? If anyone can offer some ideas I would be blessed to hear them. My family have been going through so much battles from my husband and I both lossing our mothers by cancer, relocation, husband being laidoff for seven months, and now my broken ankle which has now allow my husbands income. I have now come to terms that we can not fight this battle alone we have God that is on the frontline and warriors that has won their battles and warriors that are willing to help us fight our battle. I am so very thankful and blessed that I have new friends to keep me encouraged.. Thank you all and may God continue to bless you with your wonderful gifts to touch and encourgaged people lives..
Hi there, I do believe this is what the Lord ordered. I was told yesterday by my doctor that I had to loose some weight and this morning my email devotion was about weight loss. I already knew I needed to loose, and I’ve been trying, I just need some extra encouragement. I praise the Lord for His family, and the godly encouragement that comes from like minded people.
I am an emotional eater, and I want to bring my emotions to God first and not to the kitchen, or drive through. I know that if I take food off the alter and allow God to be my everything, He will put everything else in the right order.
I’m in.
Thanks.
Just what I needed to hear this morning. Ever since my last child was born, 18 years ago, I have put everyone else’s needs before mine and my weight has been crazy. I recently started an exercise class just for women, and I love it. I know it is not going to take all the weight off I want, but I am starting small and trying to work my way to a more regimented exercise program. Thank you for your encouraging words and for reminding us that God is the center of all we can do!
Usually I do not take the time to read the daily encouragement from Proverbs 31 but today the subject caught my eye because “a cord of three strands” was our wedding verse. I never dreamed when I opened it I would be getting a message I so desperately needed to hear. I shouldn’t be surprised at how God works but I almost always am!
Please count me in. I am not really ready at this point to share goals or details of my situation but I daily fear I will not be around to see my children grow up. You would think that would be motivation enough. Maybe with support and encourage from here, I can find focus and strength, with God’s help. Thanks
Hi Karen,
I have been crying non-stop since reading this devotion…
Four years ago I committed to getting healthy. I weighed 255 pounds and had many health issues. In about a year, I lost 99 pounds and then hit a wall. The wall… obsession and depression.
I have since gained back 50 of the 99 pounds and I just want to hide from society as I had so many people encouraging me on my journey to a healthier me. Now I feel as if I’ve let everyone down.
My husband was laid off 5 months ago and my reliance on food for comfort is at its peek once again. I’m fighting a great amount of depression and am currently in counseling with a Christian counselor. In my session last night, he encouraged/told me to get back to working out and this morning was my first day back to the gym in weeks.
I sure could use some girl friends to pray for me as I really need all the help I can get.
Thanks so much for this devotion… its timing couldn’t be better. Just shows us how great our God really is… He knows just what we need and just when we need it!
Your Sister In Christ, Debbie Fleming
I am hopeful after reading your post. I have been struggling with food for quite some time now. At one point I had settled to lose the weight and did. But then I got pregnant and used that as an excuse to eat whatever I wanted. WEll, now I cannot seem to regain control. I eat when Im sad, when Im bored, and when Im stressed. Im going to write out that verse and put it on my fridge so I will call my friend instead of eating junk! Thank you for this post. My goal is to lose 50 lbs.
Although I sit before my computer 44 pds down from my previous 212, I’m crying all the same, for this weight loss is still not a victory. I’ve lost this weight before and more than likely, I’ll gain it back–only to lose it AGAIN. The war wages on, my feelings of self doubt and incompleteness linger. Others express to me how great I look and how little I am; yet and still, all I see is a big belly, fat as it ever was! I cannot figure out how to balance my thoughts and my actions. As obsessed with food as I was, I am now obsessed with working out. All I have done is replace my food addiction. Food is not the enemy. I am my own enemy; hence, the reason I sit before this computer, looking to Crosswalk for help with my devotions. I’m finally trying to develop my love of self by strengthening my relationship with the Lord. Pray for me as I pray for you and those like us?
Thanks!! I recently gave birth and had gained about 40 pounds on top of already being overweight. I lost some after birth, but the rest has been stubborn and I’ve been getting a bit depressed and discouraged about it. I don’t think I’ve ever thought about inviting God into the process and haven’t pursued connecting with other women to help keep me encouraged.
Thank you for your thoughts!!!
Sarah
Hey guys-had an ‘ok’ week-stuck to my guns with my Lenten sacrifice but unfortunately went off the wagon a bit the last few days. Gained 4 tenths of a pound-bummer. I have noticed that my shorts are much looser this year-so that’s a good thing! Have a great week everyone!
Thanks for the encouraging post, Karen.
Thank you for sharing. I have been trying to get motivated to lose the 30 pounds that I’ve gained since getting married 5 years ago. I lost it before getting married. If I lost 15 I would be happy. Something about middle age makes it like trying to peel cement off the ground. Thanks for the encouragement!
Funny I read this today. I am trying to get healthy and get back in shape after 3 children. I needed this motivation today!
Wow. It is so good to know there are others who struglle with trying to maintain a healthy weight. I am right there with you.
Perfect devoation today. I too am struggling with weight yo-yo…up and down (mostly up). Thanks for reminding me that with God all things are possible. God gave us angels on earth to help us “braid” our cords for many reasons.
Thanks again!!
Hi All,
I was encouraged while reading the devotional today. I prayed this morning that God would help me know He’s near and He did through this devotional, it also shows that God is not just concerned with our spiritual well being but our physical as well. I tried on previous occassions to lose weight and then when things got overwhelming emotionally for me I’d eat hoping to make myself feel better, apart from that my lifestyle has changed and I’m not as active as I was before. I’m glad this group exists and that we can encourage each other.
Thanks for the devotion. This past year I reached my goal of getting back to what I weighed when I married my husband 12 years ago. I have a 3 & 5 year old. I stay active with 2 young children but I struggle with finding time to really exercise. My husband battles the yo-yo of weight. We have recently talked about making the point to walk again every night with the kids. This weekly encouragement will be what I need to keep us motivated.
God directed? Upon arising, I got on the scales . Oh, my. My lifelong battle was once again full blown – my highest weight. My walking has become more difficult. Trying to conquer aging and high blood pressure, but can’t seem to take charge of my weight which I’ve been managing off/on since I was a teen. Telling myself that my body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit but acting like Satan is in control.
Sat at my computer and clicked on the Proverbs 31 devotional. Weight Loss Wednesday? Is God providing the help I need just at the time I desperately need support?
I’m in! I need to get jump started again. It’s the ol’ rollercoaster creeping back up that loooooong hill ready to plunge down into sun and summer! {I am new…I read Lysa’s blog but I will be checking back often and every Wed. for sure}
My goal for about the last year has been 135. I’m still sitting around 147-148. I know it’s just that I eat too much and exercise too little. How come I can’t seem to break it?!?
I have been stuggling for years. I need all the help I can get. i pray about it often. I still find my way slipping back to my old ways. Thanks for doing this.
This is exactly what I needed this morning. I have struggled with my weight for years and am now experiencing health problems due to the fact that I am heavier than I have ever been in my life. The “change” brings another set of issues, but blessings abound with grandchildren arriving on the scene and I am determined to get healthy so I can be an active part of their lives. Thanks for the encouragement.
To Amy above… I’ve done the same thing… trading one obsession for the next and I’ve gained back 50 of 99 pounds I once lost. I want you to know I’m praying for your success.
Your devotion today really was encouraging! I am such a junk food eater and have recently been battling cancer and have gained additional weight due to chemo and all that goes with that. Very discouraging and need to get motivated to get this weight off yet very hard to do! Thanks for sharing your battle with this issue, it is a very hard issue to deal with when we need food everyday!
Thanks for your devotions, today and always. I can’t tell you the days that they touch my heart right where i am at. I too am struggling with maintaining my weight loss. Over the past year and a half i have gained back 21 pounds of the 49 pounds i had lost. It is often very depressing and discouraging, especially with summer coming on. Just this week, my walking partner and i committed to walking together at least 3 days a week. And on the other days we are committed to some type of physical activity on our own.
I also love to cook and enjoy great food. I will continue to cook, but my co-workers, friends, family, neighbors will now benefit from my cooking instead of me feeling i need to “not let that go to waste”. Thanks again for you encouragement, and may God bless us in our new “adventures”.
Hi, Karen!
Thanks for this reminder about the three-strand cord! I had never thought of it in relation to “weight wars”!
I have a group of facebook buddies (we call ourselves “Weight Warriors”), and we encourage each other, too. That kind of support is awesome in so many ways. For me, it will also be indispensible when I finally reach my goal (about 25 pounds from now) because I was a former anorexic and will need the accountability in case that tendency raises its ugly head.
I will have to make it a routine to check back in on your blog more often. You always have something pertinent for me!
Onward!
Lisa R.
Hi!!! I need this, I am soooo struggling with trying to get my weight off. I was never overweight until about 15 years ago. I will lose a little and then gain some. Diabetes runs in my family and I need this encouragement. I know through God all things are possible!!! I need prayer and I pray about it just not all the time. I did start walking but that is not enough. I just need your prayers and I will also pray for all of you. This will be exciting to go on this journey with all of you. God bless each and everyone of you.
I’m in. Two years ago I lost 14 pounds on Weight Watchers and vowed to not gain it back, needless to say I’ve gained 12 pounds, 9 of those since October. HELP!
Just what I needed to hear today. Being “addicted” to food is a horrible battle…*sigh* with help from my doctor i was able to pull off 15 pounds, but ran into medical problems and they seem to be inching back on, and I still have 20 more to go. I listened to your story at Hearts at Home and have even brought on your mantra of Eat less, Move more…we were listening
) Bring only a year from 40, and knowing this struggle won’t get easier; I know I need a team that I can be dedicated to: who will be dedicated to me.
thank Karen <3
Thank you so much. This is a hard battle to fight! Food is everywhere! I’m learning to feast on the things of God instead of the flesh…it’s just so difficult! I’ve been overwieght most of my life, just when I think I’ve reached my highest weight, more time goes by and on piles more pounds! When will the light flip for me…just when will being fit become more important to me than the few seconds of satisfying my flesh?! I’m at a loss.
Again, thanks for your heart in helping women like me.
May God bless you for your efforts.
I need to get into a regular exercise routine. I don’t have the motivation. Two years ago I lost 10 lbs, just by walking 5-6 days a week. Then I took a day off, then another, then 2 years later I’m not exercising at all and have gained back all the weight. But I am SO NOT MOTIVATED!
I don’t always pay attention, so although it was written a long time ago, I just figured out that God gave us a spirit of SELF DISCIPLINE! I’m a closet eater. A secret snacker. I also fill my mouth in frustration when I feel I cannot speak up. People don’t see me eat much, but I’m over 200 pounds! My sisters, mom and I are all overweight. I have three daughters. I have recognized the need to be the example to them. I have asked them to hold me accountable when they see me eating unhealthy. Your devotion today was encouraging and I am convicted that I should be jumping over to this cyber site regularly. Thanks for the opportunity!
Hi Karen and my braided sisters. I’m new to these blogs although have been a subscriber tow Proverbs 31. I just blogged on a post and wished you Karen, a happy birthday. After submitting my post I realized that it was from March 10! Karen I truly hope you had a great birthday and managed to successfully reduce your stress levels.
Your post today on Proverbs 31 hit home because it seems that I am always searching for a new and better system to lose weight. I initially lost and kept off 20 pounds through Weight Watchers but can’t seem to get motivated to do what needs to be done to lose weight. I definitely need to band with my braided
Thank you. I often turn to food instead of the Lord. Thank you for the reminder that HE is the only one to meet my needs. I have about 75 pounds to lose, but right now I’m focusing on 15 pounds. One small step at a time! Thank you ladies, it’s nice to know I’m not alone!
I needed this today. I have struggled with my weight for years and know I have to do something for my healths sake. It is so easy to feel like you are all alone with your struggles, BUT, not only is God right beside us, we have a vast network of friends and sisters to help carry the load. Thanks for the encouragement!
Being overweight, I used food to comfort me through a very rough marriage. But on my own now for the first time, I have never been closer to God and am letting him guide my life. Finding this website this morning, and the inspiration it is giving me is just another “tap on the shoulder” from God. I will be reading and blogging often and getting the encouragement needed to get myself healthy both physically and spiritually.
Does anyone ever find it “funny” that God gives what you need just when you need it? I have battled my weight since I was in 1st grade…now I am 38. I have been up and down several times and am currently in my “up”. Food has always been my comfort. It is a vicious cycle for me…I get depressed, I eat, I get angry at myself for eating, so I eat more. It makes no sense! I have tried several fads and have probably spent enough to buy a new car on weight loss products, etc. I have given it to God on occassion, only to take it right back. I have already forwarded this to a good friend of mine and asked her to be my “second strand”. I know the power of prayer, and I see it work for others…why can’t I trust that it would work for me?
It is encouraging to know that I am not alone…that there are other sisters out there with my same worries, demands, weaknesses, and fears. Today is a new day…I ask that you pray for me that I can give over this addiction once and for all!
Blessings to each of you on your personal and spiritual journeys and I cannot wait to see all of the updates in the upcoming weeks.
In Christ,
Stacie G.
I just read your devotion from Proverbs 31 ministries. God never ceases to amaze me the way he always knows what I need when I need it. I have struggled with my weight my ENTIRE life. I have always felt insecure and worried about what others think of me. I really do need encouragement and accountability. I have been contemplating joining weight watchers but, really knew I couldn’t afford it. I just knew it was God when I open up your devotion this morning. You can count me in:) Not only do I struggle with losing the weight I struggle with the lies Satan tells me. I have been studying and praying Gods word to replace those lies with the truth from my heavenly father. I actually just finished Lysa’s book Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl and it was great. Thank you so much for you devotion and encouragement I look forward to coming back on Wednesdays and knowing I have a place to come and receive encouragement and realize I am not alone in my struggle and to be reminded that the true struggle, I think is that we ALL want to feel loved and accepted!
I’m in! And I’m praying for all of you ladies to overcome your obstacles and live and be healthier! This is my second week chiming in with the group. Some of the changes I’ve implemented are becoming easier – I’m still struggling with pulling myself out of bed at 4:30 to go walking, but I did it today, and today is all I am focusing on, day by day. Walking and Pilates are how I took off and toned up when I lost 100lbs before. I’ve gained back nearly 3/4 of it and have started getting myself moving more with walking. One of my main goals is NO negative self talk!!
Thank you Karen. Thank you ladies. God bless you!
I’m in.. I love reading your blog – thanks for the encouragement.