Made to Crave

My friend Karen and I have struggled with weight a long time together. We have talked about it, planned together, fallen together, and even had successes together. Earlier this year we have had successes, and when I had surgery in February she brought me this book. It looked interesting, but until I opened the cover I had no idea the power it contained to change my life. Yes, it is about weight loss, but the concepts within can be applied to so many areas in life.

Is there something you run to instead of God that has a strong-hold in your life? For me it's 100% food. I love it. It's my hobby. It's my celebration of life. It's my friend when I've had a hard day. But, unfortunately, I love food too much. It doesn't love me back... I can tell by the number on the scale and the size of my jeans. I have loved food my entire life and have always been "chubby".

I have been doing pretty well, not really well, but pretty well on the "diet" that I am on. But honestly, I am terrified that the pounds will come back. I have been slipping lately allowing myself to eat a little more freely. But I got scared last night when I pigged out....the old Jenny was rearing her head. Bryan was gone, the movie was in, popcorn and chocolate chips flowed freely with the girls, and my spanikopita in the toaster smelled good. I was going to only eat half of what I made, but then....you know.

I have been reading a chapter or two every few days of this book and I am inspired by her, but until this morning I thought she may be a little radical in cutting out so much. But, I relate to her and the hold food has in her life. Today I read (about 3/4 of the way through) that it's truly only for a season to not eat certain things until she has grown strong enough to not only reach her goal weight but also have self-control. Self-Control. That is something I want and can gain through drawing closer to God in the times I need Him most. I have the power over the chips and salsa - they don't have power over me. And, I do believe that I was made to be more than this.

I am starting anew (AGAIN!), and feeling strengthened and ready to go. I highly recommend this book if you struggle with weight or any other "idol" in your life that you can't lay down. It's impossible to fight cravings without the power of God, and this book is a wonderful tool to help get you where you want to go!