Encouragement for everyone!!

I was eating lunch the other day with a good friend that works in the ministry. She had WLS over 3 years ago. She was sharing her experiences with me and how much her life has changed and is changing because of the surgery. One important observation she made about her life now is that she has a lot more energy to help people, give to people and minister to others. However, she realized the other day that she isn't taking enough time for herself like she used to early out after surgery. So she is trying to get back on track and balance this out. Since I am having this surgery, its also helping her, by helping me through this process. My encouragement for everyone is to make sure you take care of YOU!! Of course the most IMPORTANT thing is make sure you are spending time with the Lord, but secondly make sure you are treating yourself good. Take time to read a book at your favorite place (like the lake/beach), treat yourself to a massage, buy a present for yourself (something that has special meaning to you), my favorite---travel and get away for a few days to relax, pray, read etc... It can be anything, as long as you enjoy it! YOU all deserve this!! Why? Because God loves each and everyone of us and WE are all HIS favorites!! He is pleased with us, His creation!! So....my encouragement to everyone is to make sure You are taking care of YOU and spending time with God so HE can take care of YOU! Than, when you do get involved in the ministry or helping others, you have plenty to give!! Have a blessed day!!! Hugs, Lucy

Hello Lucy..my name is Joan...loved your encouragement today. I am starting a new Bible Study with our Women's Ministry called "Surrender" and was reading that this morning. I very rarely ever go away...sometimes to my sister's house in Myrtle Beach with is 2 1/2 hrs away. I am ministering to some ladies where I am crossing guard (parents) who after seeing me are interested in the surgery and want my help. It is strange because these women did not like me because I had to tell them to slow down, not jump in front of people in the carpool line etc..I work for police here...not always popular smile....but now God has opened a door and I invited them to my home to sit around the table and discuss the surgery and I told them I can only give my perspective as a Christian and they said fine. Please pray for my words to be His words and that I can love them to Jesus. And help them as they make this decision for WLS. You sound precious and I pray that God continues to open the door for you and for WLS. In His love and grace, Joan M

I love the title of your new bible study!! I think that totallly fits with the WLS, especially for me. When having this surgery, you are surrendering your life to God and pretty much choosing to bow your head to God and not food. You are surrendering the very basic need your body requires, that has enslaved so many people, and literally are giving it to God. I am also looking at this from a persepective of fasting, that is, giving something up for God. I expect to grow spiritually from this!! God is so good, isn't he!! God bless you!!!! Hugs, Lucy

I so agree with you Lucy! We are his wonderful creatures and he loves us. He gave us this 2nd chance and want us to be joyful. My morning usually always starts with a trip to this site with the Lord and I believe it is what keeps me grounded. Daily walks with my Lord and the occasional trip to the mall. Well I am off to play grandma and mom with my family - Enjoy Life because He did it all for us to have Life. Sally

God Bless you Sister Sally!! I pray you had an excellent day with your family! Thanks for your daily scriptures, they always bless me! Hugs, Lucy