Holding Steady

I’m going to venture to say that I’m like most American women—I wouldn’t mind losing a few pounds, particularly around my midsection. Over the years, I’ve joined several weight loss groups and fitness communities online, all in pursuit of that elusive flat stomach.

Recently, I stumbled across a YouTube video from a fitness influencer discussing an upcoming change to a well-known international weight loss program. In my 20s, I tried this program, and over the years, I’ve dabbled in it off and on. Here’s the thing—it works if you work it. But if you don’t, like most diets, expect to see those pounds creep back.

Though I hadn’t tried this program for a few years, I was curious about the updates the influencer was sharing. Apparently, under the new plan, foods like potatoes, lean meats, and even lean cuts of pork and beef would count as zero points. This intrigued me because the entire program was based on tracking points for every bite you took, and now certain foods wouldn’t count against your daily total?

Hmm, interesting.

For a split second, I contemplated rejoining.

The holidays are around the corner, and I thought maybe tracking every morsel could help keep me accountable. But immediately, I felt the Holy Spirit nudge my heart:

Stay the course I have set for you. You don’t need another diet or program. Just follow the instructions I’ve already given you.

It wasn’t that there was anything wrong with that weight loss program. But deep down, I knew God was reminding me to stay committed to what He had already told me about my health. You see, God has given me a personalized food plan. He’s instructed my heart on what to eat, what to avoid, and He’s teaching me discipline—not just through willpower, but through listening to the Holy Spirit to recognize when I’ve had enough and to stop overeating.

Maybe you can relate.

Maybe God has already given you instructions in a certain area of your life, but you’re feeling tempted to abandon them because the journey feels long, or someone else’s path looks easier. But God calls us to remain faithful to what He’s spoken over us, even when it seems like there’s a quicker or shinier way.

Let’s look at some examples from the Bible:

• Remember Noah? God gave him specific instructions to build an ark, down to the tiniest detail. Because Noah followed God’s directions, he and his family were kept safe through the flood. Imagine if Noah had decided to cut corners or build it differently because it seemed more efficient. No, he followed God’s blueprint, and it brought protection.

• Or think of Ruth. Naomi, her mother-in-law, gave her specific advice on how to approach Boaz. Ruth obeyed Naomi’s guidance, and because of her obedience, God blessed both Ruth and Naomi with security and a new beginning.

• And don’t forget the Israelites when they built the Tabernacle. God gave Moses precise instructions, and the people followed them to the letter. No one decided to swap out a gemstone for a shinier or cheaper one; they stuck to God’s plan. Because they honored God’s instructions, His presence filled the Tabernacle.

  
  

These examples remind us that when we follow God’s specific directions, blessings flow, and His presence is felt in our lives.

So today, I want to encourage you: Stay the course. If God has told you to save money and given you a plan to get out of debt, don’t abandon it because something more exciting comes along.

If He’s asked you to focus on your health and pay attention to what you’re eating, don’t give in to indulgence just because the holidays are here. This is the time to buckle up and lean into the discipline and consistency He’s called you to.

God says: “Do what I’ve told you. Don’t loosen your grip on the reins I’ve placed in your hands. Hold them tighter, stay focused, and trust that I am with you. You can do whatever I’ve called you to.”

Scripture for Reflection

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." — Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong. - Hebrews 12:12-13 (NLT)

Challenge

This week, take some time to revisit the last instruction God gave you. Are you still following it, or have you allowed distractions to pull you off course? Ask God to renew your commitment to His plan, trusting that His way is always best—even if it requires patience and perseverance. Write down one specific step you can take to align yourself with His guidance again. Then, take action!

Hey there! I’m Kacie Starr Long — author, speaker, and passionate advocate for pointing people to Jesus. Once a food addict, I’m now living in God’s freedom as He continues to work in my life, teaching me discipline and healing in areas of overeating. I’m honored to lead others who may be struggling with food addiction, showing them that transformation is possible through Christ.

When I’m not writing or sewing at Sew Hope Community Sewing Room, you’ll find me running with my awesome running club (training for my first marathon, by the way!) or spending quality time with my wonderful husband, Alfred. We lead a non-profit together, serving prisoners and their families, and it's a joy to see God at work in our lives and ministry.

I’m a solar-powered traveler who loves visiting warm, sunny places and soaking up the sun. I’m also a lover of thought-provoking documentaries that make me think deeper about life.

One of my big dreams is to create transitional homes for men and women returning to the community from prison, helping them rebuild their lives with support and dignity.

Let’s connect! Visit www.InspiredOverflow.com and join me on YouTube for some Christian teachings, encouragement, and a little fun along the way!