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I’ve struggled with low self-esteem my whole life. My mom was always hard on me growing up, and then I married a verbally and emotionally abusive man. I have been divorced now for almost four years and have come to know Christ in that time. Most days I am fine with who I am. I have changed a lot and have gained some self-confidence. I even have an awesome Spirit-filled boyfriend who loves me and thinks I'm beautiful. However, I don't feel that I am.
I decided two months ago to get serious about losing the weight I gained after my divorce. I‘ve been working out faithfully and today I had my second measurements done. I gained 6.75 inches and 1.5 lbs in the last month. I am totally devastated! I went home and cried my eyes out. My boyfriend tells me not to be so hard on myself. But I just feel absolutely horrible. Please help!
Have patience with yourself. Losing weight takes time, especially when we are adding muscle – but after a while your efforts will pay off. I assume you have also changed your diet to veggies, fruits, fish, and oatmeal for breakfast!
Accept your boyfriend's reassurances and stop thinking negatively. This Scripture will help you: "Be anxious about nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known to God – and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7). I've gone through lots of trials in my life and this Scripture has helped me every time. So keep looking up – not at yourself – but to our dear Lord who loves you. He wants us to have His peace and joy, not to wallow in the bog of despair!
My articles, "Moving On From The Past," and "Overcoming Bad Habits," might help you.
In Christ's love, Dr. Muriel.
Dr. Muriel Larson, author of many books and thousands of published writings and songs, is a professional Christian writer, counselor and speaker, and has taught at writers' conferences across the United States. She serves as an E-Mail counselor with Truthmedia. Her web site, "Advice From God's Word," lists many helpful articles alphabetically by their descriptive titles: http://advicedrmuriel.blogspot.com
