I have had several women tell me the one life essential they struggle with is health. They are dramatically overweight and just can't seem to get it under control. So, when I got an email from Grandma Mungie, a.k.a. Judith from Michigan, addressing this topic, I asked her if I could pass along her wonderful thoughts with you. She readily agreed.

"I want to share with you what I have been through with this struggle, having lost between 50 and 70 pounds many, many times (and always gaining it back). 

After years of frustration, the Lord brought me to a place that I really didn't want to go- the area of self discipline. I began to dwell on the gifts of the spirit- asking myself how I could be so enriched by the first seven gifts, but be so lacking in the 8th... that self control one, you know. So I began to examine myself in depth which led to some very painful discoveries. Such as my motives. Did I want to lose weight for vanity's sake? Was I using food to fill me instead of dealing with problems, keeping all my feelings inside rather than sharing them with my husband? etc. etc. etc. 

"Something was wrong with this picture! The bottom line is my motives were not pure for wanting to be slim. So after confessing this mess to the Lord, He made me realize my part in this dilemma. Now my goal in weight control is I want to look my best and be the healthiest I can be for the Lord. I asked myself, 'What kind of witness was I, being 70 pounds overweight? How COULD I claim to unsaved friends that Christ was sufficient for all our needs when it was obvious that something was askew?' Suffice it to say I joined Weight Watchers, lost 70 pounds, and the best part of this story is I've kept it off for three years. It's not easy, but the Lord is the one in charge, and He has changed my eating habits, giving me a real love for fruits and veggies. I still love the crunchy munchie stuff, but it's under control (most of the time, but I do confess to occasional bursts of the old nature). But then I move on not allowing a slip to continue the next day."

Thank you for sharing your story, Grandma Mungie. It is so inspiring. I have used Weight Watchers, too, and prayer for self-control. Some people do better with another plan—but whatever it is, if you struggle in this area, experiment until you find something that keeps you healthy. 

When I started running, I was hearing about running from so many angles (books, friends, ministers), it was as if God was saying, "I have this gift for you, and you're going to hear about it in so many ways, you have no option but to do this!" 

What is God telling you about leading a healthier life?