Monica's Story.

I am a 51 year old wife and mother of seven, who had not been taking care of myself. I had never lost all my weight after pregnancies and then gained more. Recently, I had noticed I was feeling weak, had a bad left knee and was self-conscious to move around freely. I was very discouraged about dieting because I had tried and failed many times. I was becoming more convicted about how I was taking care of my body when a friend of mine showed up having lost a lot of weight. She told me about Grace and Strength, so I signed up. Initially, it was scary and kind of overwhelming to realize how much of our lives are surrounded by food, but as time went on and results showed up, I realized how trapped I had been in my old way of living.

I decided to look at this period of time as a fast of obedience before the Lord. I asked him to change my heart in order to set His priorities over my life instead of living for the next piece of food I could enjoy. My motto was, "Do I want confidence or do I want food?" I realized how many times I hesitated before I would respond to an opportunity because I was self-conscious, embarrassed or didn’t have the clothes to wear. I didn’t want to live under shame any more. My coach, Anna, was a wise guide and a tremendous encouragement for my journey. I believe the accountability, support and God-focused messages she shared was key to my success and making this experience not just another diet to try.

As I begin my maintenance time, I am excited for all that has opened up for me as old baggage has dropped off. I am looking forward to summer. I can go shopping and find clothes I actually like to wear, but most importantly, I feel able to be the friend, mother, and active responder to all God brings my way. Adding confidence to my life is an enormous blessing. I truly believe God has started a good work and will bring it to completion as I follow Him in my new way of thinking about food.

Praise the Lord. I am set free.

[UPDATE] Monica is now in our Alumni program. She has maintained her weight loss for the past 3 months and is an active participant on our Alumni Facebook board.

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* Individual results may vary.