Weight Loss Challenge Day 5..

I like Sundays, easy and so much to look forward to and especially just taking time to sit back and rest. I had alot to look back to today and as someone who thinks well on paper, I took time to review how the last one month has been. At the beginning of this year, I made a decision to get into some type of tracking, whether it was tracking what I do or what i spend and generally key things that especially contribute to my mental well being. I have faithfully done that and every Sunday, I take some time and review my progress for the week and rate how well I have performed and what I can do to make it better.

I took time today not only to rate my weekly performance but also my Q2-2023 especially around key numbers of what I have been tracking for the last 6 weeks (Mid March to-date). These areas include my weight, blood pressure, weekly average sleep hours, weekly average phone screen time and weekly average steps (Movement). The numbers were a mix of joy and disappointment as it never really hits home until you see how much some of these numbers impact your life, whether negatively or positively. My weight, sleep hours and screen time were quite disappointing but what i am grateful for is that the awareness has made me be more keen and intentional towards the steps I take.

As I wrap up the month of April, My faith is that God shall continue walking this journey with me, grant me a long life, teach me to stand string mentally and physically, shield me from any weapon that the devil throws at me and my loved ones, shields me from discouragers and naysayers and give me a heart that is willing an obedient to follow and obey His will.

May the new month of May 2023 bring with it favour, blessings, open doors and a covering that only God can give. In Jesus name I pray…Amen…God bless you!

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Weight Loss Challenge Day 4..

I am reminded of the scriptures in the Bible where Jesus asks His disciples, ‘How much longer shall I put up with you’? (Matthew 17:17). This verse is part of a story where Jesus heals a demon-possessed boy. The verse itself is a rebuke from Jesus to His disciples for their lack of faith in being able to perform the healing themselves. That’s the question I am asking my body and mind at this moment. I have 24 hrs in a day and as much as I am excited about showing up daily, I may end up hitting my goal during the next country election if this is my speed and rate..well..end of self -rant. I got what it takes and I will make this journey a success, so help me God! Any lawyers reading this, we may need to discuss this.

I will take a break for the night now that its almost midnight and I had a long day attending an amazing function as my friends bride price was being negotiated, so let me sleep and look forward to tomorrow.

God Bless You!

Weight Loss Challenge Day 3..

I promised my self to show up daily…and here I am…Even in the smallest of ways, I still showed up.

I was determined to walk outdoors and the rain did not do me any justice, I walked anyway..took a longer route home just to get in the steps balancing my never used before umbrella.

If you are on this journey with me, push hard, no matter what!. I have had valid excuses since day 1 why “I should wait to perfect things and do more tomorrow” but well, I am only guaranteed of today so here I am!. Drinking water on a cold day, and I mean plain water not coffee as I do not account for all the beverages I take aside from pure clean water is a huge task, but I drank anyway!.

Well, have a lovely night and let me go account to my writers group (yes! I am in that too), that I only wrote 165 words today. God Bless You!

Weight Loss Challenge Day 2..

Day 2 of this amazing journey, pushing hard and still excited about what lies ahead. I took a much needed walk to most of the places today and I was challenged at some point when I told a friend that I would be taking a cab back home. I had done about 3,600 steps by then and the friend challenged me to take advantage and walk as the weather was good…really cool with potential for rain later. I saved myself some money by walking home. I was not in the most comfortable of shoes but with less than 1.5km to my home, I took on the challenge and I am grateful I did.

I remember sharing with some of the ladies in my accountability groups that using some you tube walking challenge is great especially if you have no outdoor spaces but that was really me consoling myself as sometimes I am so lazy going outdoors seeing that my work can be comfortably be done from home. I am also really grateful to God as I have numerous safe walking spaces around my home but thats not motivating enough in this season so I will try and push harder as time goes by.

One of the challenges I experienced today was to hit my 16:8 IF goal. I had an early physical meeting at 7:00am and breakfast was served. I tried so much to avoid looking at the plates around the table but eventually gave in..These are the big and small lessons we learn along the way and as much as I know I could have held on, I am grateful that I still pushed for the 14 hours.

I had no energy for workout this evening but decided to do some 100 arm circles just to get some movement.

I look forward to tomorrow and I hope you get encouraged as we keep pushing…2 days down..88 to go..

Weight loss Challenge Day 1.

Mhhhhmm…I got nothing to type…not sure also if this is a good idea to have this out here but I hope it encourages one of my faithful readers on a similar journey. I am truly grateful for a great start as I had every reason to postpone to tomorrow as I have always done.

I pray that God guides me throughout this journey, grant me courage, wisdom and bravery to keep pushing as well as to make good choices. I know there’s some wedding and birthdays along the way but you know what, I am not starving, I am just making healthier choices, so I am so ready to enjoy those as well.

I will try my level best to keep the accountability moving and hopefully as I make this big leap on my health, other areas of my life will change too…and I will also try to be more detailed in my actions for the day…

I now boldly allow God to take full control. Amen.

90 Days To A New Me..

Being vulnerable in public takes alot of courage. I am so proud of the person I have become over the years as I never shy away of speaking my truth. I always believed in the importance of taking care of my body, which as a Christian I first believe is a temple of the Holy Spirit. However, like many others, I struggled with weight gain atleast two times in my life. When I relocated to a different continent alone for the first time and the second time after having children. First time around, with the support of my Mom, I managed to cut back over 22 kgs. Well, this other weight story is a whole different ball game…It has been a Yo-Yo kind of journey but with my youngest child now being 10 years old, I realise that I no longer have any excuses to carry excess weight. Its about time for a change, and I decided to give myself a second chance …well a fiftieth at weight loss, this time with the support of a group of ladies who shared similar health goals. Some of these ladies have been “weight loss” friends for years.

Well, earlier today, I reached out my friend Rose who has also struggled with her weight and shared my desire to join her on her 90-day challenge to lose weight in a healthy and sustainable way. We have shared the Yo-Yo wins and loses in the last few years so it only made sense. She was thrilled to have company and we agreed to share with some of our groups of like-minded women in the various health groups we run together on WhatsApp. We were ready to support each other, hold each other accountable, and cheer each other on as we pursued our weight loss journey together.

One of the key principles we agreed upon was to focus on intentional healthier habits rather than resorting to fad diets or extreme measures. We both understood that true and lasting weight loss required a lifestyle change which we have struggled with, and we are now committed to making realistic and sustainable changes to our daily routines. We started by setting achievable goals, such as working out a minimum of three days a week, practicing realistic intermittent fasting, incorporating regular walking into our routines, and staying hydrated by drinking enough water.

We have over the years found great encouragement and motivation in each other’s company and we look forward to celebrate each other’s successes, provide support during setbacks, and share tips and strategies that work for us individually and our group members. After all, we have continuously lifted each other up in prayer, recognising that our physical health was interconnected with our spiritual and emotional well-being. Through our shared faith, we have found strength and perseverance to keep going, even when the going got tough. We hope that this journey that begins on 26th April 2023 and ends on 25th July 2023 will be worth while and the grace of God will be sufficient.

As I reflect on this journey ahead, I am reminded of God’s faithfulness and the power of community. God’s grace has empowered us to take steps towards healthier habits, and He will provide us with the support of fellow believers who will help us stay accountable and motivated. I am grateful for the chance I have given myself at weight loss, and I am excited to continue this journey with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

If you are also struggling with weight gain and feeling stuck, I encourage you to give yourself a second chance. Let me know if you would like to tag along this journey. Remember to take a before photo and we will share all that as we close the journey in July.

God bless you.

Before Your Body Complains One Day…Try This!

I have sometimes wondered what my body would say if it had a real voice and remembered all the commitments I have made to it…Workout more, drink more water. I have gone to the extent of joining some health accountability groups to keep me motivated, but its clearly not an easy journey. I need daily motivation. As a christian, I am called to honour and care for my body and so are you, as our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). One powerful way to do this is by developing a daily habit of working out. Exercise not only benefits our physical health but also has numerous spiritual and mental benefits that can help us grow in our faith. In this blog, we will explore how to build a daily habit of working out and how it can strengthen our bodies and our relationship with God.

Prioritise Your Health: Just as we make time for daily prayer and reading the Bible, we must prioritise our physical health as well. Set aside a specific time each day for exercise, whether it’s in the morning, during lunch break, or in the evening. Treat it as an important appointment with yourself and with God. Remember, taking care of our bodies is an act of stewardship, and when we are healthy, we are better equipped to serve God and others.

Start Small and Be Consistent: It’s important to start small and be consistent when developing a daily habit of working out. Begin with an exercise routine that is manageable for your fitness level and schedule. It could be a short walk, a 10-minute workout, or a gentle stretch. The key is to be consistent and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. Consistency is key in building a habit that becomes a natural part of your daily routine.

Involve God in Your Workouts: As Christians, we believe that our faith is not limited to Sunday worship but should permeate every aspect of our lives, including our workouts. Involve God in your workouts by offering prayers of gratitude for your body and its abilities, seeking God’s strength and guidance as you push yourself physically, and using your workout time as an opportunity for worship and reflection. You can also listen to uplifting Christian music or podcasts during your workouts to nourish your spirit while you strengthen your body.

Embrace the Benefits: Regular exercise has numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Exercise helps to reduce stress, improve mood, increase energy levels, boost brain function, and promote better sleep – all of which can positively impact our faith journey. When we take care of our bodies, we are better equipped to fulfil God’s purposes for our lives and have the energy and stamina to serve Him and others more effectively.

Stay Accountable: Building a daily habit of working out can be challenging, and it’s helpful to have accountability partners who can support and encourage you on your journey. Share your fitness goals with a trusted friend, family member, or fellow believer who can hold you accountable, offer motivation, and celebrate your progress. You can also join a Christian exercise group or class to connect with like-minded individuals who can inspire and challenge you to stay committed to your workouts.

Developing a daily habit of working out is not only beneficial for our physical health but also for our faith journey. By prioritising our health, starting small, involving God, embracing the benefits, and staying accountable, we can build a healthy habit that honours God and helps us become physically, mentally, and spiritually strong. So, let’s lace up our sneakers, put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), and embark on a journey of building a strong body and a stronger faith. Remember, you are not alone, for God is with you every step of the way. God bless you!

April..May…June..It’s Not Too Late to Start Over Today.

Whats going on in your life today?….Any celebrations or just regrets?..Are you feeling like you’ve made too many mistakes in life, missed opportunities, or wasted precious time? Do you believe that it’s too late to start over and make a change for the better? As a Christian, I want to share with you the incredible truth that there is no late time to start over because of the gift of redemption through Jesus Christ.

In the Bible, we see countless stories of individuals who experienced a fresh start through God’s grace and forgiveness. One such story is that of the prodigal son, as recounted in Luke 15:11-32. The younger son squandered his inheritance in reckless living, but when he came to his senses, he decided to return to his father, confessed his mistakes and sought forgiveness. Despite his waywardness, the father welcomed him back with open arms, celebrated his return and restored him to his former position. This story exemplifies God’s unwavering love and mercy, regardless of our past failures or poor choices.

Another powerful example is the apostle Peter, who denied Jesus three times during his crucifixion. Peter was devastated by his betrayal, but after Jesus’ resurrection, he was given the opportunity to start over. Jesus forgave Peter and restored him to a position of leadership, commissioning him to feed His sheep (John 21:15-19). This shows that even when we falter and fall, God’s forgiveness and restoration are available to us.

As a Christian, I believe that through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we are offered redemption and a fresh start. Romans 3:23-24 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” No matter how many mistakes we’ve made, no matter how much time we’ve wasted, God’s grace is greater. It’s never too late to turn to Him, repent, and receive forgiveness and a new beginning.

Starting over with God’s help doesn’t mean that the consequences of our past choices will necessarily disappear, but it means that we can move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and hope. We can learn from our mistakes, grow in wisdom, and make better choices going forward. God can turn our mess into a message, our tests into a testimony, and our pain into a purpose.

So, if you’re feeling discouraged, regretful, or stuck in a cycle of defeat, remember that there’s no late time to start over with God. He is the God of second chances, and His grace is always available to you. Embrace His forgiveness, receive His love, and allow Him to guide you on a new path of transformation and restoration. Your past does not define your future. With God, there’s always hope for a fresh beginning, no matter how late it may seem. Trust in His promises and take that first step towards a new and abundant life in Christ. Hope today is the day you Start Over…God Bless You!

Who Is In Your Inner Circle?

We are called to love everyone but we must also be careful not to crash as we pursue to love and be loved. Discern toxicity and narcism and know how to guard your heart. As a christian, I am called to live a life that is pleasing to God and to continuously grow in my faith. One key aspect of our spiritual journey is the support system we choose to surround ourselves with. Our environment and the people we associate with can have a profound impact on our spiritual growth. Therefore, it is crucial to intentionally purpose to be around the right support system that will not only encourage and strengthen us but also help us grow in our faith, rather than taking away from it.

Choose Christ-Centered Relationships: Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” It is important to choose relationships that are centered on Christ and promote godly values. Surrounding yourself with fellow believers who are passionate about their faith, and who encourage and challenge you to grow spiritually, can have a tremendous positive impact on your walk with God. Does that mean you cannot associate with non-christians, No!…you must have deep roots that are not easily influenced or shaken..be the influencer, not the influenced, have a stand, so that your morals and behaviours are hard to be shaken.

Seek Mentors and Role Models: Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Look for mentors and role models who can guide and mentor you in your faith journey. These can be individuals who have a mature faith and exemplify godly characteristics that you aspire to develop. Their wisdom and guidance can help you navigate challenges and provide valuable insights as you seek to grow in your relationship with God. I have for instance been intentional to learn about prayer this year, I took an 8 week prayer course at my church and like you manifest things you often think about, a friend recently introduced me to a weekday early morning prayer group where ladies meet online to command their morning, I have many testimonies to share on that from just a week of waking up at 4:00am.

Engage in Christian Community: Being part of a Christian community, such as a local church, small group, or Bible study, can provide you with a supportive environment where you can grow in your faith. Surrounding yourself with like-minded believers who are committed to following Christ can create an atmosphere of accountability, encouragement, and mutual support. It provides opportunities for worship, prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, which can help you grow in your understanding of God’s Word and your relationship with Him.

Prioritise Healthy Boundaries: It is important to set healthy boundaries in your relationships to ensure that they are contributing positively to your spiritual growth. Avoid relationships that consistently pull you away from God or hinder your progress in your walk of faith. Be intentional about spending time with those who encourage and support your spiritual journey, rather than those who drain you emotionally or spiritually.

Be a Supportive Friend: Being intentional about choosing the right support system also means being a supportive friend to others. As you seek to grow spiritually, be willing to extend grace, love, and encouragement to others, and be willing to invest in their spiritual growth as well. When we bless others, we are often blessed in return, and our own faith is strengthened.

Intentionally choosing the right support system is crucial for our spiritual growth as Christians. It involves surrounding ourselves with Christ-centered relationships, seeking mentors and role models, engaging in Christian community, setting healthy boundaries, and being supportive friends. By purposefully selecting a support system that aligns with our faith values, we can create an environment that fosters spiritual growth and helps us become more like Christ. Let us be intentional in our choices and strive to be part of a supportive community that nurtures our faith and helps us grow in our relationship with God. God Bless You!

Allow Your Mind To Be Healed..

Every-time I have heard a therapist or psychologist speak, I realise in many ways, there are unseen and unspoken diseases within us and in those we care about that may never get diagnosed or treated. We walk as shells of emptiness and keep wounding those around us the same way we were wounded. As a Christian, I know that God is our ultimate source of healing and restoration. His love and grace are boundless, and He desires to bring healing to every aspect of our lives, including our minds. Our minds are incredibly powerful, but they can also be vulnerable to negative thoughts, worries, anxieties, and the wounds of the past. However, when we allow God to work in our minds, we can experience true peace and restoration.

God’s Word tells us in Isaiah 26:3, that “You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you because he trusts in you.” This verse reminds me that when we fix our minds on God and trust in Him, He can keep us in perfect peace. He is our anchor, our refuge, and our healer.

Here are some guidelines on howe we can allow God to to heal your mind:

Surrender your worries and anxieties to God: We often carry the burden of worries and anxieties in our minds, which can weigh us down mentally and emotionally. But God invites us to cast all our cares upon Him, for He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Surrender your worries and anxieties to God in prayer, and allow Him to take control. Trust that He has a plan and will work all things for your good (Romans 8:28).

Renew your mind with God’s Word: The Bible is a powerful tool for renewing our minds. It is filled with promises, truths, and wisdom that can bring healing and restoration to our minds. Spend time in God’s Word daily, meditating on His promises and allowing them to transform your thinking. As Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Seek Godly counsel and community: God has placed people in our lives to support and encourage us. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide Godly counsel and support. Seek guidance from parents, mentors, credible pastors, or counsellors who can provide insight and perspective. Remember, God often works through others to bring healing and restoration to our minds.

Pray for healing and forgiveness: Bring your hurts, pains, and past wounds to God in prayer. Ask Him for healing and forgiveness. Unforgiveness, bitterness, and resentment can take a toll on our minds and hinder our ability to experience true healing. Surrender these emotions to God, and allow His grace and forgiveness to flow through you, both for yourself and for others.

Practice self-care: Taking care of ourselves physically, emotionally, and mentally is an important aspect of allowing God to heal our minds. Make sure to get enough rest, eat healthily, exercise (even a 15 minute works magic), and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. Remember that self-care is not selfish but necessary for our overall well-being.

Trust in God’s timing: Healing is a process, and it may take time. Trust in God’s timing and be patient with yourself. God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His timing is perfect. Keep your faith anchored in Him, and allow Him to work in His perfect timing.

By allowing God to heal our minds, we are on a journey that requires surrender, renewal, community, forgiveness, self-care, and trust. When we turn our minds toward God and allow Him to work in us, we can experience true peace and restoration. So, let us fix our minds on Him and trust in His healing power, knowing that He is faithful to restore and renew us from the inside out. May His healing touch bring peace and wholeness to your mind today and always. Amen. God Bless You!