by Dona Hake
There is a particular weight loss commercial that literally makes me cringe every time I hear it. It is all about a weight loss pill that will make you lose weight. I am sure it probably does but here’s the part that bothers me….”Lose weight without any lifestyle changes…” Every time I hear it I cannot help but think that in about five years we will be hearing a commercial that says, “If you have taken this weight loss pill and have the following complications…”
No matter what we need to change in this life, it will usually take discipline and self control. Some things are easier than others, and some things taken patience and time. I will never forget hearing a man’s testimony of extreme weight loss. He weighed over 600 lbs. and over a period of time was able to lose 400 of those pounds. It was amazing to see his before and after, and might I add that his story was so inspiring to me. Before he lost the weight, he had basically given up and just stayed at home. He did play online video games and ended up friending a woman on the other side of his world and they played video games. She came to know his weight situation as they chatted and this is all she said…”You are throwing your life away…” Those words inspired, and challenged him! He made some real decisions and it was a slow but sure victory. I shared this scripture with you yesterday, but it fits wonderfully with this devotional.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.”
God has made it possible that we tap into the power of self control and discipline. Also, it is wonderful to know that God is able to inspire you in disciplines through His Spirit, and those around you. He is also able to help you accomplish your goals as you purpose your heart to be disciplined for Him in every area of your life. God is able to help you do above and beyond all you dare ask or think! By His power, we can do that which may seem impossible.