Good Day Pudgy Girl Followers! I trust this summer has been a good one for you. Here we are looking smack dab at Fall 2014, and I am still surprised at how fast this year has flown by. Fall brings a marked change in activities around this pudgy girl's house. I've got one in football, one in marching band, and our singing engagements are busy to say the least. Unfortunately, the busyness has led to a lack of discipline toward my exercising. Here's the bright side: 1. I recognize and acknowledge my laziness! 2. Both my Sweet Terry and I have renewed our commitment and motivation to... simply put... move our tails! We've dedicated to 30 minutes of activities daily. Walking, running, bicycling, weights, a cardio video, all is fair game for us this Fall. Of course, to be physically fit, we must stay on track in the kitchen. Watching our calories and portions isn't easy and it's not very much fun, but it is a necessity for me! We've been trying to eat at home more. Making and sticking to a weekly menu has helped a lot. That way we are not naive to what is being put into our foods and therefore our mouths. Fitness and health takes work and dedication, and is very much worth it!
Speaking of being naive, I read in my Bible this week two verses that spoke to that topic. These two verses also serve a strong warning to believers of Christ. Romans 16:17-18 "17I urge you, brothers, to watch for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. 18For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people." Most people in our country consider themselves to be knowledgeable and have some common sense. I think people find the thought of being naive, slightly offensive. While it is true that some of us are naive or ignorant about certain subjects, there is one subject we should not be naive about, our spiritual fitness! Our relationship with the Lord determines our life, peace, and eternity and is not something we leave to chance. It is also not something we allow to be influenced contrary to the teaching of the Bible. This has become a popular topic on social media, certain leaders of large churches or organizations in our country have been preaching and speaking what I initially called fluff, however, now I can see how dangerous it is. It is smooth talk and flattery and deceiving. I don't care how many of your friends re-post a feel-good message that says your ok, I'm ok, we're all ok, don't fall for it! Search the scriptures and pray for yourself! Seek Biblical answers and get into right relationship with the Savior! Friends, as followers of Christ, we are called to know the scriptures and be obedient to them. If we begin to listen and follow a person because what they preach makes us "feel" better, than biblical standards, we will individually answer for that. We aren't not to be naive, we are called to know better! I have too many friends and family re-posting this garbage and I'm afraid they're believing it. I love you! I want better for you, because I want to spend eternity with you! I want you to really know Jesus Christ as Savior and friend in your life! For there is no other answer for this life and the next life, NONE!
If you are a person in a leadership role, Pastor, Singer, Actor, Mentor, Parent, Grandparent, etc. Do not be a false witness. Do not teach, preach, speak or write "feel-good fluff". Be a representative of Christ in everything, for you will be held accountable for it. Do you have a question about something the Bible says about a certain topic? Seek Godly counsel in the scriptures and with a trusted leader grounded in Christ! And Pray! Pray and read the Bible daily. The Lord is not tricky or elusive, He wants His truths to be found by those who truly seek Him. Remember He loves us so much! I want you to know this Lord personally. I love you and am here for you!
May God's truths be breathed into you today,
Pudgy Girl
Friday, September 5, 2014
Saturday, August 16, 2014
An Update in Truth
Hello to you, Pudgy Girl Followers! Physical fitness update: I've been working on the 1200 calorie day for the last 3 weeks. I've lost 4 lbs. and eh, I'm not impressed with myself. Mostly because if I'm honest, and I'd better be honest... There have been a couple days each week I have NOT stuck to the plan. That is troublesome to me. If I would be faithful to my plan I'm certain I'd have lost more. So, here I try again to stick to 1200 calories each day, with one cheat day per week. I have not been running much, as I am not able to run in the SGM 5K in September, for we are unable to make the trip to Tennessee. I have been exercising with my Lil Bit. Lil Bit is my youngest baby Baylor. We've been bicycling and walking, and I do so enjoy our time together. Exercising is so much better with a buddy. I'm committing to a better week of discipline with my eating and exercise. I'm hoping for a three pound loss this week. I'll let ya know.
I mentioned honesty earlier. I believe that being truthful is so important, even if it makes me look bad. I wish I could honestly say I live exactly perfect. That I always say and do the right thing, but that is just not the case. I do know there is more than a high moral value placed on truthfulness. The Bible talks about truth in Ephesians 6:14, and with world events being what they are right now, we need to have an honest talk here. Right here, for this blog is about Spiritual fitness, and let's truthfully check our own personal fitness level. The Bible refers to future evil times that this world's inhabitants will be exposed too. In fact, the Bible says in Ephesians 6:13-15 "13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." I believe it is a day of evil when a terrorist group is beheading Christians. And raping and hanging and murdering them for believing in the one true Savior, Jesus Christ.
My friends, I want to be found spiritually fit, and I want you to be found spiritually fit. We have a job to do right up until the very nearing end. All of us. Here it is: We must spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to this dying world! That is the pure, unadulterated Truth. Not watered-down, feel-good, you're-ok-I'm-ok, pat each other on the back mumbo-jumbo! Do you get me? Do you understand what I'm saying here? You need to have your relationship right with Jesus. You need to have your eternity nailed down and only you can do that. It doesn't matter how holy your Dad, Mom, Husband, Wife, Son, Daughter, or Friend is, it matters where you stand with the King of Kings. You also must be in right relationship so when you pray for others, the Lord will hear your prayers. See James 5:16. Finally, once you know whom this day who you're serving, tell your people. Then tell people who aren't your people, and pass it on, in love and make disciples, for that is our call and great commission! Go, love, serve and be a friend to all! For there is nothing that matters more as the hour draws neigh. Need help? Need prayer? Need a friend?? I'm here for you. Get in touch with me and I'll do my best for you. I love you, and I'm praying for you dear reader!
In His Service,
Pudgy Girl
I mentioned honesty earlier. I believe that being truthful is so important, even if it makes me look bad. I wish I could honestly say I live exactly perfect. That I always say and do the right thing, but that is just not the case. I do know there is more than a high moral value placed on truthfulness. The Bible talks about truth in Ephesians 6:14, and with world events being what they are right now, we need to have an honest talk here. Right here, for this blog is about Spiritual fitness, and let's truthfully check our own personal fitness level. The Bible refers to future evil times that this world's inhabitants will be exposed too. In fact, the Bible says in Ephesians 6:13-15 "13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." I believe it is a day of evil when a terrorist group is beheading Christians. And raping and hanging and murdering them for believing in the one true Savior, Jesus Christ.
My friends, I want to be found spiritually fit, and I want you to be found spiritually fit. We have a job to do right up until the very nearing end. All of us. Here it is: We must spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to this dying world! That is the pure, unadulterated Truth. Not watered-down, feel-good, you're-ok-I'm-ok, pat each other on the back mumbo-jumbo! Do you get me? Do you understand what I'm saying here? You need to have your relationship right with Jesus. You need to have your eternity nailed down and only you can do that. It doesn't matter how holy your Dad, Mom, Husband, Wife, Son, Daughter, or Friend is, it matters where you stand with the King of Kings. You also must be in right relationship so when you pray for others, the Lord will hear your prayers. See James 5:16. Finally, once you know whom this day who you're serving, tell your people. Then tell people who aren't your people, and pass it on, in love and make disciples, for that is our call and great commission! Go, love, serve and be a friend to all! For there is nothing that matters more as the hour draws neigh. Need help? Need prayer? Need a friend?? I'm here for you. Get in touch with me and I'll do my best for you. I love you, and I'm praying for you dear reader!
In His Service,
Pudgy Girl
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Request Granted
Good Day Pudgy Girl Followers,
First order of business today, physical fitness accountability. I've notice how hard losing weight has become since having my third baby. Nearly two years after having her, I'm still staring down my last 40 lbs to lose. I'm also older, maybe that is a contributing factor. I've messed with my calorie intake and I think I'll carefully cut an extra 300 calories out of each day for a couple weeks to see how that goes. I'll keep you informed on my progress. Training has become a little bit slower with the return of the high temperatures and humidity. However, we're still getting it done. It's been wonderful having my sweet Terry running with me. He is such an encouragement. Now, on to the spiritual fitness accountability.
Have you ever really considered if you were granted any request of your choosing, what would you choose? Of course you've thought about it, we all have. I have often felt and said, if I could have anything, I'd want to have my house paid off, be completely debt free, take an exotic family vacation, have a new Prevost bus to travel in. How about you? In 2 Chronicles 1:1-3 King Solomon pleased the Lord in his obedience and offerings and the Lord said to him, 7..."Ask for whatever you want me to give you." Do you know what that king asked for? He asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead his great people. Wow! How very unselfish and kind. The Lord of all the universe was impressed, in fact He was so please with Solomon that he granted his request. Because Solomon was so unselfish in his request, the Lord chose to grant him wealth, riches and fame as well as wisdom and knowledge. I read that chapter today and I felt conviction of selfishness. I want to be like Solomon, eager to be a good leader and steward over what God has entrusted me. The job He's called me to do. I pray the Lord helps me be the best servant that I can be, and not a selfish wish maker. Now, after hearing about Solomon, what request would you ask God to grant you today?
Serving til Jesus Comes,
Pudgy Girl
First order of business today, physical fitness accountability. I've notice how hard losing weight has become since having my third baby. Nearly two years after having her, I'm still staring down my last 40 lbs to lose. I'm also older, maybe that is a contributing factor. I've messed with my calorie intake and I think I'll carefully cut an extra 300 calories out of each day for a couple weeks to see how that goes. I'll keep you informed on my progress. Training has become a little bit slower with the return of the high temperatures and humidity. However, we're still getting it done. It's been wonderful having my sweet Terry running with me. He is such an encouragement. Now, on to the spiritual fitness accountability.
Have you ever really considered if you were granted any request of your choosing, what would you choose? Of course you've thought about it, we all have. I have often felt and said, if I could have anything, I'd want to have my house paid off, be completely debt free, take an exotic family vacation, have a new Prevost bus to travel in. How about you? In 2 Chronicles 1:1-3 King Solomon pleased the Lord in his obedience and offerings and the Lord said to him, 7..."Ask for whatever you want me to give you." Do you know what that king asked for? He asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead his great people. Wow! How very unselfish and kind. The Lord of all the universe was impressed, in fact He was so please with Solomon that he granted his request. Because Solomon was so unselfish in his request, the Lord chose to grant him wealth, riches and fame as well as wisdom and knowledge. I read that chapter today and I felt conviction of selfishness. I want to be like Solomon, eager to be a good leader and steward over what God has entrusted me. The job He's called me to do. I pray the Lord helps me be the best servant that I can be, and not a selfish wish maker. Now, after hearing about Solomon, what request would you ask God to grant you today?
Serving til Jesus Comes,
Pudgy Girl
Monday, July 7, 2014
A New Bible
I'm so bad a blogging regularly. I haven't posted since September 2013. Sheeps! Da's a long time ago. Well, as I strive to mature and grow spiritually, and attain physical fitness, I may need to share more regularly. I have mentioned before that I find a great motivation in public accountability. In fact the Bible calls us, as Christians to be accountable to one another see Proverbs 27:17, Galatians 6:1-2, James 5:16.
Since September '13, I have ran in two 5K events and my sweet Terry ran the most recent event with me. It was the most enjoyable race I've ever participated in simply because my best friend ran beside me, encouraging and pushing me the whole way. My times have not been personal bests, but they have not been my worst time either. I'll keep striving to move, walk, run, & pedal my way to physical fitness. The next 5K I've chosen to train for is going to be the 5K of a lifetime! It is combining my two favorite things, Southern Gospel music and running. That's right, this year at National Quartet Convention, they are hosting the first ever Southern Gospel Music 5K! I'm so looking forward to September 27, 2014 and running this event. This is serious motivation for my training!
On my 10th birthday, my Grandpa and Grandma Oathout gave me the single most important gift a child can receive, my own Bible. As of the time of this blog post, I am 38 years old, and I have used that red leather NIV for 28 years. A few months ago, the cover of that precious Bible tore almost completely off after much use and too many years of stuffing thick papers in the cover. I have since been using my online Bible on both my phone and tablet. I decided that my devotions would benefit from going back to using a physical book Bible, so I went in search of a different Bible in our bookshelves. Having chosen a nice NIV couples devotional Bible, I turned through the pages to see that I hadn't used this particular Bible in at least 5-10 years. There was a special surprise I found in the pages of this book. I found a homemade Mother's Day bookmark given to me by my oldest child Taylor Jewel, when she was 3 years old. It made my day! It really did. I felt like it was a gem for my day, sent to me by my Heavenly Father saying to me, "It's fine to use a different Bible other than your favorite, the point is, just be in My word everyday, Melissa."
In Acts 21:10-14, the Bible speaks of a man with the gift of prophecy, correctly foretelling the future imprisonment in Jerusalem, of Paul for the sake of the Gospel. The other believers begged him not to go ahead and journey to Jerusalem, for they feared for his life and freedom. However, Paul rebuked his friends, saying he was ready to be jailed or even die for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He said "The Lord's will be done." After reading this, I immediately thought, is my faith even half this strong? Or have the strongholds in my life come to bind me so that I can't say and mean, God's will be done in all things in my life?? Oh my prayer today be the prayer of Paul, Thy will be done in me oh Lord, let me not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, but to go into all the world proclaiming the good news of salvation in Jesus!
This pudgy girl will keep working to train for my ultimate SGM 5K, lose these last 40 lbs, draw closer to the Lord, and live in His will for my life! Wanna go for a walk, run or bike ride?? Do you need prayer or an accountability partner?? Call me, I want to help you however I can. Improving oneself is a lifetime journey we walk hand in hand with Christ Jesus our Lord.
-Prayerfully Yours,
Pudgy Girl
Psalms 104:33
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