Well, I have had so many things happen in my life since my last blog. As a woman whose faith is making great leaps daily, I feel tremendously blessed despite what the Devil has thrown at me these past few weeks. I know I may have mentioned this to many of my close friends: This time last year had I been faced with the things I am facing now, I would have crumbled and waved my white flag in defeat. Yet,after allowing myself some time to mourn, to feel loss, I am ready for battle again. God has physically and mentally prepared me for the place I am in now. I truly believe this. I have learned that you always have to be prepared for battle in life, you can not let your guard down, not even for one second. The Evil One is always waiting, giving you a false sense of security because you might not be fully aware of where true security comes from. My sustaining weapons have been prayer and reading books that inspire (one being my Holy Bible).
Just when you think everything is running smooth in your world, surely this will be the time for a spiritual attack. This is what happened to me. However, this time I was ready. It's funny how God prepares you battle, unbeknownst to you, and you come out the victor every time. Many of us pretend that we have it all under control when we face adversity. In fact, this is what I used to do because I thought it made me a stronger person. What was actually happening was a slow demise of my joy because I didn't know how to submit to God what was beyond my control. Over the last few weeks I have been enlightened that it takes a really strong person to give God complete control over a situation. So during my workouts, more specifically my runs, I found my self purging all the negativity and surrendering all my issues to God. Running has been such a tremendous release for me spiritually. I find myself praying, crying, and sweating all at the same time.
Growing up Baptist, I always wondered what it was like to experience the Holy Spirit. I would see people jumping around, speaking in tongues, becoming a person totally unrecognizable, even to themselves. I used to wonder if that was the only way to experience the presence of God. I was never a runner before. I was never really physically strong. Truly when running, at least for me, you need the ability to draw strength to complete those miles from a higher power. I am completely submissive and my mind is cleared to receive all the hope, joy, closeness that God intends for me to experience through Him. This is what I have discovered is the Holy Spirit presenting itself to me through my physical activity. Over the past few weeks I have been shocked at my reactions: my calmness, my ability to love unconditionally, and to forgive because I have received the spirit. Don't get me wrong, oh, I still have my issues. We all do. Yet, it has been such a comfort to know that God cares and is with me throughout all that I have gone through. I am reaping the mental and physical benefits from His sovereignty over my life.
WEIGHT LOSS TO DATE: I have lost a total of 60 lbs so far. Technically, I have about 15 more pounds to go...but I could stop right now and be satisfied!
Be blessed!
