God's Transformative Power: My Weight Loss Testimony

I was praying to God, asking Him, “What should I post next for ‘Written Miracles, Lord?’” There were several ideas I had, but I wasn’t fully convinced to post them. Then God revealed to me that it’s time to share my weight loss testimony.

For those who are close to me and even those who may not be so close, you know that I’ve struggled with weight my entire life. Now, I could blame it on genetics, but instead, I’ll admit to my struggles with food addiction (gluttony) and using food to cope emotionally. Let’s just say I viewed food more like a friend than a nutrient my body needed for energy and sustenance.

I battled this struggle for most of my life—well into my late 20s—and felt like it was something I would never overcome. I had reached a point where my weight was literally tearing my body down, evidenced by shortness of breath, persistent back pain, recurrent pneumonia, headaches, anxiety, and the list goes on. My self-image was completely shattered, and I knew I wasn’t living the life God intended—one that is exceedingly and abundantly full. I also realized that if I continued down that path, God wouldn’t be able to use me the way He needed to. I asked myself: If I can hardly walk 10–15 minutes without getting tired or feeling sharp pain in my lower back, how will God bring opportunities my way to travel or attend ministry events that require stamina?

Unfortunately, this dilemma—along with many others—did not stop me from binge eating or neglecting my health. Especially after the passing of my father in late 2021, my weight increased even more. There were so many trials, tribulations, dark, tearful nights, health scares, and moments of despair. I knew something had to give. I needed a BREAKTHROUGH.

It wasn’t about being “skinny” or conforming to society’s standards, I just knew that the way I was living wasn’t pleasing to my Father. I wasn’t seeing myself the way He saw me. I had to surrender to Him fully and completely, and go to Him for comfort instead of food. Food, which was once my friend, had turned into an idol and ultimately became my biggest downfall.

But GOD! My Lord, Savior, and Redeemer came in like a rushing wind—with the resources, a supportive circle, and His transformative POWER. Only He deserves all the glory and honor for the 200+ pounds that have been lifted off me, both internally and physically. He heard my cries and wiped away my tears, chastised me in love, and never lifted the burden of His calling and purpose for my life. He has renewed my mind in so many ways. I am NEW in Him and because of Him!

I no longer use food to cope. I’m more aware of which foods nourish me and which don’t. I set daily movement goals, and my health is no longer negotiable. God’s plan and purpose for my life is a priority, and viewing my body as His temple is a vital part of that. The world may call it “intuitive eating,” but in my life, it is only God's transformative power that deserves the recognition for my weight loss journey, which began three years ago. I am in total AWE, as God has gracefully brought me to this place of deliverance, wisdom, and strength.

As cliché as it may sound—if He did it for me, He can do it for anyone.

If you or someone you know resonates with my testimony, know that God wants you to bring everything to Him. There is nothing too big or too small for Him to transform completely. However, it does require a level of surrender. In my case, I had to surrender unhealthy cravings, the habit of going through the drive-thru almost every day, and my preference for going straight home after work instead of to the gym. I had to partake and participate in His transformation process for these changes to manifest. I had to address my negative thought patterns and let go of excuses, comfortability, and fear.

Again, when we surrender and actively participate in what we know God is trying to do in our lives, transformation is bound to happen.

I pray that this post has encouraged you today. Know that everything you need to overcome your struggle has already been provided. God’s grace is sufficient, and what I love about Him most is that He always shows up when we call on Him.