In His Image Testimony:

My struggle with binging, sneaking large amounts of food at night, even stealing food began when i was very little. Throughout my life, my weight was the focus and shame. I tried everything from starving myself to working out excessively, using amphetamines in the attempt to speed up my metabolism. I tried all kinds of diets and exercise regimes. Overeating was a lifestyle that according to the world could be modified with pills or eliminating some foods or joining a weight loss club. Many solutions offered but none worked long term. I was miserable, ashamed, even kept from enjoying my marriage and children because of my shame. It wasn't until I did the Lord's Table that I learned that this lifestyle of overeating and trying to find a fix was SIN. Because my sin was so entrenched into my life the Lord's Table only broke the surface of that sin and but now In His Image has broken through completely and has brought me into a far greater understanding and freedom in Christ. I thought i was feasting in Christ before but In His Image made me see I wasn't feasting sufficiently. Every morning now, I'm feasting in His Word, in devotionals, in worship and praise music, in fellowship with other believers in Christ. One way or another, feasting on Jesus happens throughout the day. But I have to remember that this is an ongoing war of not submitting to the flesh but instead a walking by the Spirit with Whom I am enabled to overcome the tendencies of my flesh. When it's time for my body's physical needs of nourishment, it's also a time of giving thanks to God for the food, for His creativity in His creation of food. When I am working out, I have praise music on and He gives me insight into His nature, His character, my dependence on Him thru the lyrics and it's a sweet time of fellowship with Him even though I'm sweating away. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 summarizes for me. 26I don't run without a goal. And I don't box by beating my fists in the air. 27I keep my body under control and make it my slave, so I won't lose out after telling the good news to others. In other words, the purpose of being self-controlled by focusing in on Christ which includes delighting in Him, enjoying Him, reading and meditating on His Word, praying, eating in moderation, exercising, is all for Him and because of Him. Anything else disqualifies or discredits my testimony as i share the gospel with others. My life would have been in vain if all i'm trying to do is lose weight but by the grace of God, Jesus has changed my thinking, my life and it's all for Him and for His glory. Praise the Living God!