I have been using the Noom app to help me in my quest for a healthier lifestyle. The app provides behavioral training, education, accountability, and support. Plus, the planning I’ve learned in my Flourish Writers Academy has dovetailed with Noom, helping me in setting goals for my health. Similarly, FWA incorporates accountability and support with their education and training.

I now understand how these elements make a vast difference in my ability to make progress in areas I’ve struggled with in my past experiences. Having to log my meals (accountability) and having my writing coach help me focus on my goals (support), to name a few, have been key players in keeping me on the path.

One of the suggestions from Noom was to have affirmations written out and posted around the house, or at least have one in my head that I could use to bolster myself when faced with temptations or discouragement. Something along the lines of , “I am a strong woman!” “I’ve got this!” Or “I’ve already made progress.” Statements like that.

I was supposed to come up with my own, but I needed something different. The words, “he trains my hands for war,” came to mind. That was it. That felt right for me. After all, am I not being trained? Is this not a battle? And although I am learning from people, is it not God who directs my steps?

Let’s look at the surrounding verses:

He makes my feet like hinds’ feet [able to stand firmly and tread safely on paths of testing and trouble]; He sets me [securely] upon my high places.

He trains my hands for war, So that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.

You have also given me the shield of your salvation, And Your right hand upholds and sustains me; Your gentleness [Your gracious response when I pray] makes me great.

You enlarge the path beneath me and make my steps secure, So that my feet will not slip.

Psalm 18:33-36 (AMP)

As I read this, I feel strong and secure. I am reminded that with God all things are possible (Matt 19:26). And that I am equipped with God’s armor and his weapons (Eph 6:11 and 2 Cor 10:4).

So I will submit myself to training, I will attend my classes, and I will listen to the teacher. I will learn more than I know and will overcome setbacks and achieve victory in areas that have evaded me previously. For God is the one who trains me, and he is the best teacher!

I encourage you to read that scripture again. Let the Holy Spirit minister to you for the battles you’re facing. I pray you will find his strength and his victory.

I will be going into battle over my back on Tuesday. I’m having surgery and covet all prayers for success. 🙏🏻☺️🙏🏻

Grace & Peace,

Sandy