And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  II Cor. 12:9

I sometimes find myself thinking that I have to be strong or that God won’t be pleased with me.  If I don’t have willpower to eat right  and keep working out — then the added weight is both a punishment and a placard I’m wearing on my back, declaring my failure.

But that isn’t the heart of the God we meet in the Bible.  The true and living God knows what it feels like to be hungry — because He fasted for 40 days in the wilderness. When He was “afterwards ahungered” he was REALLY starving. (Matt. 4:2)

He, who made us, knows exactly how our body is working. Though we can’t see the hormonal messages and the effects of different foods we eat, He does.  He knows what is holding us back and tripping us up. (Ps. 139:14)

He also knows our weaknesses.  And He cares about the things that concern us. (Ps. 103:13-14)

He isn’t a God who demands perfection from His children and doles out shame and punishment if they fall short.  He is a loving father who is ready to pick us up and carry us when we are tired and feeble. (I Peter 5:7)

The best news of all is that He is okay with our weakness.  In fact, He often allows us to have frail spots in order to show His strength.  When our situation seems impossible, that’s the best opportunity to show the power of God by relying on Him.

A final note though.  These promises aren’t for everyone.  They are for His children.  If you aren’t sure you belong to His family, Click here to see my message about God.

Today I’m resolving to call on Him for help over the rough spots in my journey to a place of strength and health in my life.  I hope you are able to do the same.  His grace is sufficient!

Eating to live and living for Christ,

Susan Jordan Brown