Learning God- Control instead of Self-Control

By: Healthy By Design

I remember being shocked, even bordering on angry, as I read the first lines in Rick Warren's book, The Purpose-Driven Life. I thought, “What do you mean, ‘It's not about me,’ Rick?” Every self-help book, success book and motivation book that I'd read had always told me to focus on me – to go after what I want. The “wisdom” said, if I don't take care of myself -- then who will?

After a series of discussions with God, He led me to Luke 9:23. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”

The second part of that verse says “let him deny himself.” At that time in my life, reading that passage was even worse than hearing that “it's not about me.” After years of revelation, submission and growing in faith, it becomes clear that this is what God wants to teach us.

"Let Him Deny Himself"
a. Denying yourself means letting go of what you think is right. It means trusting God to provide the solution to your problems.
b. Christian living means putting aside your selfish desires – we will experience Christ's satisfaction, success and splendor in our lives as we surrender to Him.
c. James 1:12 says, “blessed is the man that endureth temptation.” God wants to make us mature and complete, and not make us feel deprived and unsatisfied.
d. Our purpose on earth is to fulfill God's purpose for our lives.

Action Steps to help you “deny yourself” --
* See every temptation and moment of weakness as an opportunity for growing in God's grace and strength.
* Ask yourself if what you are about to do, to eat, or to say is self-serving or God-serving.
* Ask God how improvements to your health and your fitness will help you to fulfill the calling He has placed on your life.
* Re-frame the negative connotation of denying yourself with the positive connotation of self-control, and of allowing God.

Article Source: http://www.articles.narrowisthepath.com

Cathy Morenzie, the president of Active Image has been a leader in the fitness and health industry for over 20 years. Her impact has influenced thousands of people over the years to help them lose weight and develop positive attitudes about exercise and active living. To download your free report to discover the Biblical blueprint for weight release God’s way visit www.hbdprogram.com.

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