“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” (Philippians 1:3-6 NLT)
“It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going. And even when he reached the land God promised him, he lived there by faith—for he was like a foreigner, living in tents. And so did Isaac and Jacob, who inherited the same promise. Abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God.” (Hebrews 11:8-10 NLT)
Seven weeks from today ends my designated “Year of Jubilee.” Only my Heavenly Father knows what will take place during these seven weeks. He has already done so much, but I am convinced there is more to come. It’s not that there won’t be many more breakthroughs in my future, but this is a uniquely set aside period of time for things that have been plaguing my life to be removed, and things that have been missing to be added.
There are two longed for breakthroughs that have not yet become visible. The first is overcoming my lifelong battle with weight. This has once again become critical as it is negatively impacting my ability to carry out daily activities. This battle carries with it all of the classic signs of addiction. The silver lining is that it keeps me praying and keeps me close to the 12 steps that have proven effective through the years.
I have shared the details of this ongoing battle far too many times. I fall and I get back up only to fall again. Each time I fall, getting back up becomes just a bit more difficult. Every slip brings thoughts and feelings of failure and defeat. It becomes tougher and tougher to claim the promises of victory. It has become extremely difficult to deal with the feelings of hypocrisy as I once again swallow pride to “confess my faults” in hope of restoration. I have learned to embrace living in humility but I am ready to be exalted.
As I write this I must admit that I do not know what is missing. I am seeking the Lord for his wisdom in what is lacking in my daily experience that will unlock the door for this breakthrough to come through.
Some tell me to “just do it.” Others tell me to “rest in the Lord.” Still others advise me to “fight the good fight,” while others say that all I need to do is “let go and let God.” I am very familiar with all of the common motivational phrases and applicable cliches (I have used them all). I am well versed in the appropriate scripture (can quote, or at least paraphrase, most of them) and yet no long lasting victory has been experienced.
Having once again bared my soul, I am at this very moment in this very place renewing my dedication to seeing this through. In Jesus Name I claim victory over obesity. I am in complete control within my spirit as it is empowered by the Holy Spirit and the Word. My mind is renewed as it comes into alignment with the Mind of Christ. My body is quickened (enlivened) as I discipline it bringing it into subjection to Christ. I walk by faith, NOT by feelings!
It is one of my greatest hopes that as I remain transparent in my battle that you will be encouraged in yours. WE ARE OVERCOMERS!
Be refired and inspired for another day as you think about…
…7 Year Promise: Path to my “Year of Jubilee”: Part 16: What’s Next?