|
A lot of new year's resolutions include one about losing some pounds. Then about three weeks into January that one has fallen by the way. Devotions for Dieters recognizes right on the cover that losing weight usually takes more time than we think when it says "A 365-Day Guide to a Lighter You."
Such a long-term commitment can be discouraging when the scales go up and down instead of always down, or receiving the new recipe your neighbor gives you, or attending the weekly church supper, but as the reading for February 16 reminds us, "One thing will not change, and that is the loving kindness of the Lord. . . . God will help us with whatever plan we choose to follow." We need to focus on the ongoing help of the Lord if we are to be victorious in our effort.
The devotions for each month are built around a theme: January: Holiness, February: Temptation, March: Courage, etc. If you leaf ahead to the end, you discover the theme for December is Victory.
Writing a goal each day after reading God's Word is much more effective than jotting down one goal at the beginning. A goal a day becomes as much of a yardstick as a daily weigh-in.
Dan Dick, the author, has a real gift for writing these meditations. It's just like reading an encouraging note from a friend. Many of them start with a story of someone Dick has known ("Barry never really believed that he'd lose weight.") No browbeating, no pity parties, just honest encouragement in the Lord -- a whole year's worth.
Still with me? Well, if you happen to be dieting as 1998 starts, be sure to keep Devotions for Dieters handy.
Estelle Lamb is a reviewer in Lexington, KY.
Copyright ©1998 ProMotion, inc.
www@acloserlook.com
Support your