Thirty Five Years of Pounds (2 Chronicles 15:7)

It took about 5 years, but today, I have finally shed thirty pounds, nearly a pound a year since 1982. I am now at the same weight I was in my sophomore year in college, and in truth, even reaching back to my senior year in high school. Through a combination of exercise and simply eating a little less every day, the task was accomplished.

I feel great and am thankful to be able to accomplish this. Like so many long term goals, I grew impatient, desiring to quickly complete the task. But a rapid weight loss can wreck havoc upon one’s metabolism and overall health. We have all heard or witnessed the effects of crash or fad diets. Malnutrition and weakness are the least worrisome outcomes. Hospitalization and death may even result due to electrolyte imbalances. I wisely chose to be patient and methodical with my diet.

But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.

2 Chronicles 15:7 (NKJV)

Unfortunately, I do not show a similar degree of patience with my spiritual walk. I desperately want to live the transformed and sanctified life that Jesus promises me when I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior. And yet, my old sinful nature is constantly battling my new identity, given to me by the Holy Spirit, who now dwells within me.  I know what needs to be done, but so often, I fall back upon old habits. It frustrates me and these feelings are exacerbated to those who are close to me, particularly my own family. Rightly did the Apostle Paul plead,

O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.

Romans 7:24-25 (NKJV)

My sinful nature limits the power of God within my life. But I cling to the promises of God, that through salvation and power in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior, He will allow me to someday accomplish my task. Like my dieting goals, it will not be immediately achieved, but I know the Holy Spirit will continue to sanctify my life until someday, I will be in the presence of Jesus, forever rid of my body of death!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.