In my younger years, I didn’t realize the effects sugar can produce on a body. Aches and pains were a daily struggle. Leg pain tolerated through the day became unbearable through my nights. In addition, migraines came calling quite frequently. I lived on acetaminophen and ibuprofen, as well as prescription drugs from time to time. Drinking water was hard, and it felt sickening if I had to drink a glass first thing in the morning. Breakfast wasn’t appealing unless it was a slice of pie or a donut. Obviously, my physical fitness was just mediocre. So, it’s not surprising that mood swings and a lack of energy were the norm as well.

But that all changed in my 40’s when I began taking thyroid medicine. Water became a requirement. I had to drink a full glass first thing each morning with my pill. And remarkably, my body welcomed the changes. A major lifestyle transformation began as I followed advice from “100 Days of Real Food” and “Food Babe” through Facebook. Reading nutrition labels on groceries is now routine and staying away from processed foods a must. Eating organic when possible is also key. Of course, there are times when this isn’t followed perfectly, especially when eating out, so that makes me try even harder in the home. Drinking water at every meal, in-between meals, and as much as I can hold, proves to cleanse the body of all kinds of impurities. Doctor after doctor has reinforced that bit of knowledge. The stories my son relayed from his basic training experience also provided perspective on the value of drinking water.

After my herniated discs in 2015, I learned first-hand how important physical fitness was to my overall health. My recovery through physical therapy along with a super supportive husband got me back on track. I also began to understand how God created the body to heal itself. With the routine workouts and a healthy diet my recovery brought a physical strength I had not known for many years.

But there is a danger if we allow the physical to take over our every thought. All this “doing” can become a distraction from what’s most important.

So, my September fasts are a time to reflect upon my priorities, a time to slow my thoughts down, refocus, and align my heart to His while listening and remembering all He has done for me; I am worshiping my Savior and King!

In the book of 1 Kings, God speaks to Elijah in a gentle whisper, providing him with renewed purpose and direction.

1 Kings 19:11-13

Can you hear Him?