April's Story

Grace. How many of us really know what that word means? To me it means receiving something we don't deserve. My pastor, Dr. Chris Stephens, describes grace as "God meeting you at your greatest time of need". I came to a crossroads in my faith several months ago, where I knew I was either going to continue down a path of apathy, and a weakened belief in what my God can do, or choosing to run down the path of discipline and hope. I'm so glad I chose the latter. How many times have I come to that same crossroads though? Too many to count. But that's how life is. It's full of roadways with side paths, alleys, and even highways for us to choose from. More times than not I've chosen the wrong path or roadway. That's where grace comes in. Grace says, "It's okay. Let's try again". It is by God's grace and His strength alone that I can do this lifestyle.

I came to Grace and Strength for the first time several years ago, and this year I found myself back with this wonderful group of women that I now consider some of my closest friends. I knew I needed a change. A big one.

Not only in my eating habits, but I desperately needed a closer walk with God. I needed discipline. Discipline in the way I treated my body and in the way I treated my soul. I craved a smaller pant size of course, but I craved a closeness with my Lord even more. Over the past several months I've lost a significant amount of weight but I've gained so much more. I've gained a stronger faith, good eating habits, friendships, and a desire to stay this way forever.

For King and Country has a song titled "No Turning Back". One lyric says, "Out of the doubt into trust, out of the me into us". I've left my doubts behind and I'm now walking with God daily. Do I stumble sometimes? Yes, of course. But that's where grace comes in. Again and again. I'm so very thankful I listened to God and the sweet nudging of my friend, Cyndi, and followed this plan. I'm not turning back. God is so good!

~ April

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* Individual results may vary.