By Rhonda Slingerland
When Bernie and I returned to our “empty nest” from leaving both our daughters at college in the United States we determined that it was a perfect time for us to make a lifestyle change. We both read The Daniel Plan and were impacted by the spiritual and scriptural emphasis and motivation behind what Rick Warren had written.
I would like to share a few of those insights with you in this brief devotional, as someone who is still on this journey.
First, what is my motivation? It can’t be guilt, fear, peer pressure, a change in my appearance or a change in my dress size. It won’t last. I have learned that the only lasting motivation for a true change in lifestyle is love. My love for God, our love for each other and God’s unconditional love for us. “Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” (1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT).
Second, lasting change begins with committing my body to God as a living sacrifice. Romans 12:1-2.
Physical health influences my mental, spiritual, emotional, relational and financial health. It is actually an integral part of my testimony! My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and influences every part of my being.
According to 1 Corinthians 6:12-20: a) My body belongs to God and is holy; b) Jesus paid for my body on the cross; c) God’s Spirit lives in my body; d) God expects me to take care of my body; and e) God will resurrect my body after I die.
Third, I must trust in God’s power not in my own strength to make a change. Discipline or self-control is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23. The secret of self-control is allowing myself to be Spirit-controlled. Isn’t this our holiness doctrine?
God offers us all His power today to make healthy choices and to not be enslaved to bad habits, rather to make new habits.
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him” (Philippians 2:13 NLT).
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2 NLT).
“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” (Philipians 4:13 NLT).
Let’s love, support and pray for each other in living a life – body, mind, spirit and soul — that is pleasing to God, in His strength and power.
