Can God Help me Lose Weight

I received an email recently which prompted me to write on this subject; can God help me lose weight?

I’ve heard this question and/or heard the comment made so many times I feel it’s worthy of discussion.

The woman that contacted me said, “I’ve tried everything to lose weight except surgery. I’ve prayed and asked; how can God help me?”

As it is with most of us, she did well for about a week. Some type of pressure or craving came about and she would cave in and go for the sweets. Sound familiar? It does to me. As they say, “been there, done that, have the t-shirt.” So, can He help you lose weight? Let’s see what the Bible says about answering prayers.

John 15:7 (New International Version)

7If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.

God places no limitation on what type of prayer request you can make. Is it perhaps that God is answering us but we’re not listening? Or, maybe he’s sent a friend or helper to you.

It’s like the story of a man who lived on a farm near a river bank. One day a torrential rain storm caused the river to flood. The man prayed for God to save him. As the water rose higher, a neighbor drove up in a Jeep, urging the man to leave before the farm was completely flooded.

The man replied, "I’m waiting for God to save me."

The water rose higher, and the man was forced to move into the second story of the farmhouse. A police boat soon came and the officers called for the man to hurry and get into their boat.

"No need," the man insisted. "God will save me."

Finally the house was completely engulfed in water, and a rescue helicopter swooped in to save the man, now perched on the roof. Again he refused.

Just then, a huge wave swept over the house, and the man drowned.

When he got to heaven, he stormed up to God, asking why God had let him die when his faith had been so strong.

"What do you mean?” God replied, “I sent a Jeep, a boat, and a helicopter ... but you wouldn't budge!"

Is it possible God is answering our prayer request for help in getting fit all the time but, we do not recognize His voice?

I think sometimes we want God to forcibly make us stop whatever our self-defeating habit is. Perhaps something like a burning bush in front of the refrigerator, the cheeseburger in our hand suddenly disintegrating? We all know that simply isn’t God’s style. God’s voice is a whisper.

Isaiah 30:21 (New International Version)

21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."

Recently, a friend and I were sharing our devotionals together. I was disturbed because I didn’t feel like I had “heard” from God lately. God was talking to me, I wasn’t listening. In my case, I needed to repent of my sin to get back in step in my walk with God.

Let’s apply this specifically to--losing weight. During a time of weakness for food which will not serve your fitness goals, have you ever heard that voice say, “You are sabotaging yourself,” or “you’ll be sorry later”, or “don’t do it”, or “don’t give in.” I have. Let me ask you this—was that voice you heard right? That was the urging of the Holy Spirit within you whom Jesus has sent to be your helper.

The good news is—God never gives up on us so don’t give up on yourself. It doesn’t matter what your level of fitness is right now. Start over—you can do it.

Philippians 4:13 (New International Version)

13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Read the scripture above. Does it say I can do a few things, some things? No, it says I can do EVERYTHING through him who gives me strength. God places no limitations or specifics on that scripture.

So, the answer to the opening question is an absolute YES; God can help you lose weight. We know what the problem is. How about a solution?

· Commit your goals and plan to God

Proverbs 16:3 (New International Version)

3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

In my book, 40 Days to Total Transformation I’ve written a prayer I would like to share with you. Use your own prayer or use this one but do lift your plan up to God.

Heavenly Father, I come before you asking for your help.

God, I cannot do this of my own strength. I have tried too many times and I have not succeeded but this time I come before you God. In your word you say

(NIV Mark 11:24)”Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” I lift up my plan to you Lord in prayer.

I believe you want me to be healthy and fit and I receive your gift of health and fitness. Thank you Heavenly Father for taking my burden. Fill me with the Holy Spirit and be with me during my time of weakness and give me the self-discipline to follow through and do the things you tell me to do. This time I will succeed God because you are with me. You are my helper, my healer, my friend, and my loving Father, and I know that I can count on you in all things. I give you all the glory. In Jesus name I pray….Amen.

· Learn to listen

Isaiah 30:21 (New International Version)

21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."

Sometimes God’s voice is only a whisper. Learn to recognize the voice of your Lord.

· Take action

James 2:17 (New International Version)

17In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

Yes, we have to take an active role in this process. Listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

How do we get stronger and better in anything we do—perseverance. The more we follow through on our fitness goals and new habits, the more momentum, power and strength we gain.

Yes, God can and will help you lose weight, get healthy, and feel great. By the way—be sure you give God the glory for your success!

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