Step One: Stop Lying to Yourself
by Pastor Jake Larson It is easy to point out the lifestyle faults in others but when it comes to looking in the mirror it is much more difficult. When life spins out of control on any level it is easy to stop evaluating our personal health and grow numb to our condition. We stop facing reality.
As a Fat Pastor I stopped looking in the mirror and recognizing the areas of my life that needed attention. I didn't recognize the "fat guy in a little coat" becoming a visible reality. I didn't recognize the slow slide away from spiritual disciplines. I had no clue that my increasing levels of anxiety were impacting my ability to be a great husband, Father, and Friend. The attraction to sin was increasing and my life was heading in the wrong direction.
The most difficult exercises to bring about a changed life is honest self-assessment. When you are honest with yourself you will open up the door to greater change.
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You can choose to live with decreasing potential, decreasing octane, decreasing energy, and decreasing fun or you can begin the change through self-assessment.
DO THIS: Open the word processor on your phone or computer and start with confession. Take responsibility for why you are where you are. Confession statements should acknowledge your unhealthy habits.
- I confess I eat whatever I want without discipline.
- I confess I turn to alcohol for comfort.
- I confess I am at least 30 pounds overweight.
- I confess I blame my schedule for my lack of physical training.
- I confess that I don't make my relationship with God a priority.
- I confess hiding from people and tend to live isolated.
DO THIS: Write another short list of who you want to become. These statements are vision statements. Paint a picture of what you want to become in the future.
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- I envision a fit me who is not held back by unnecessary physical limitations.
- I envision a practice of healthy eating that I am passing on to my family.
- I envision a consistent discipline of silence, meditation, and prayer in my life.
- I envision my future emotional health that is optimistic and freed from childhood hurts and pains.
Read Will You Accept the Challenge and begin the journey towards the best vision of YOU!
