Willpower Versus Words

The idea of Willpower is so ingrained in us, especially those of us trying to lose weight, that it’s nearly impossible to crawl out from under the burden of so much responsibility. When you believe that “willpower” is all you need to lose weight, your diet and exercise failures become not just temporary setbacks, but judgments on your character: your weakness, your lack of will, your fault. That crushing psychological ego-gauntlet doesn’t lead to motivation – it leads to a self-perpetuating cycle of failed weight loss attempts.

Here’s a thought: You can’t do this on your own.

Here’s another thought:  “I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

When you start to think you can’t do this diet or exercise plan, meditate on verses like this. When you have God’s Word in your spirit and mind, and when you speak those words, you will find your strength (because it’s His strength). That’s the way God intended it to be – we ask Him and stand on His Word for our strength! It’s when we rely only on ourselves that we are able to weaken.

Then speak these words out loud. Keep them in your pocket or purse and take them out to read once a day (maybe before mealtimes). Once you begin to change the Words surrounding yourself, you can actually change yourself.

In my practice, I’ve seen it again and again: the people who stay healthy transform themselves with words first. Voicing good words about yourself not only reminds you of your value, but will remind you that God has a purpose for you – and He supports you in fulfilling that purpose. Improving your health improves your ability to do His work.