Anger drags me down.  If someone offends me, I rehash every detail.  “They deserve my fury and need to learn a lesson.”  My rage grows and I justify my position, continuing to list reasons why I am right.   I hate to admit when I am wrong.   By holding onto anger, I wrongly believe the offender suffers. The truth is other people do not know that I carry bitterness from their actions.  James 1:20 is, “Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.”  (Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 1996, 2004, 2007).   God desires for me to be righteous.  However, anger produces the polar oppositeRead More →

Every time I overeat, I feel guilt. Shame that I have failed again rushes over me. The fact I resolved to do better beats me up.  This guilt tells me I am doomed to stay fat forever.  Overcome by negativity, I am tempted to give up and eat everything in sight.  This self-disgust is not from God.  Instead, He gently nudges me when I fall short and motivates me to get back on track. 2 Corinthians 7:10 is, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (Holy Bible, New International Version, 2011).  There is a hugeRead More →

It was once hard for me to relax without constant snacking. Grazing while watching TV  is normal behavior.   Sitting down, whether to read or surf the internet meant snacking for me.  To avoid mindless eating, I used to keep busy.    When I started eating only when I was hungry, I got numerous tasks finished to avoid eating.  Since there are times I need to rest, I am learning the art of relaxing without food. I have to eat to live and will always be surrounded by food.   Using “I need to relax” as an excuse no longer works.  God is helping me overcome temptationsRead More →

Fear is a normal emotion for me. Sometimes, I imagine the worst possible case scenario to work my fear into frenzy.   Even though deep down I know my imaginary event will never happen, I find something else to worry about.  Not knowing what is going to happen give me stress and uncertainty.  I would rather be in control and know what is going to happen.  Most of my fears come from my unwillingness to surrender control. My fears are erased when I remember to surrender control to God.  Isaiah 43:1 is, “But now, this is what the Lord says – he who created you, …’Do notRead More →