"Have you ever prayed for something for what seems to be forever and felt that God's answer was "It is just the way you are, deal with it!". Before Grace and Strength, that is what I believed to be true. Every new diet craze that even sounded logical, I tried and failed. I was stuck. I wanted to be healthy so that I would not be a burden on my family, so that I could take care of others that needed me, and most of all to serve God to my fullest potential. However, I could not break free from the bondage. I had quit praying, but God had not forgotten those prayers.

As I walked with a friend one morning, she told me of someone she knew that had lost over 100 pounds through a program called Grace and Strength. She went on to tell me that I should check it out. I spent hours one Saturday doing just that. I watched video after video and wondered if this could possibly be the answer or just another path to failure. As I ran errands that day, I thought to myself, "if I am going to do something this drastic I will eat whatever I want until I start." I pulled up to the drive-thru and drove off 15 minutes later with no food because it was taking too long. I continued to a second drive-thru and they were actually out of the food I ordered. God had my attention. I knew food was an idol. I knew He was speaking to me and I needed to listen. It was His timing.

My husband watched some of the videos and told me to contact Grace and Strength. Once again, confirmation from God. Thus, the journey began. When writing my "why" it became more about my relationship with God. I desired an undivided heart. I committed Deuteronomy 6:4-6 to be my focus. "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength."

The first week, I will confess was miserable. I had my doubts. As I sat in church, the choir sang a song, Moving Forward by Israel Houghton. I wept. We had a guest speaker. His scripture topic…Deuteronomy 6:4-6. Now I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that this journey was God's calling, His answer to my prayer.

The difference with the Grace and Strength Lifestyle is that it deals with our whole being. It teaches us how to approach food, gives us tools to deal with the bondage, and and offers accountability. I can't begin to tell you what is like to have a wonderful coach and a group of women who walk alongside of you, praying and encouraging you every step of the way.

The journey has been eye and heart opening. There have bumps and stalls. I have learned that it is not just about a number on the scale or following rules. It is allowing God, in His time, to do the work in my heart, soul, and body that He desires. It is about giving Him glory for the work He is doing. My journey continues."

---

* Individual results may vary.