Wednesday, March 12, 2008

In the mean time...

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22-23

I know that making changes in your life takes time. Especially to see results. We know in the end it's worth it. When we feel good about ourselves and our bodies are filled with good fuel (physical and spiritual) we can then give more and more freely to others.

When I was stuck on the couch for a week after my foot surgery, I had a chance to do a lot of thinking. One thing I thought about was, "What can I do in the mean time to feel better?" Exercise was not an option and I couldn't leave the house. I decided to start a face regimen. I used to take real good care of my face, but I've gotten out of the habit. Although it doesn't change my cirumstances and it certainly is not "the answer" but I do feel so much better since I've been cleansing, exfoliating, and applying serum and creme in the night and morning. The next little change I'm going to make is to paint my nails ... even my toenails ... even my hurt toenails.

Action Plan:
What little things do you do to boost your spritits every now and then? Is there something small you can do for yourself, a little change you can make today that will help you feel beautiful? Well, do it! You are worth it! Caring for yourself is not a sin. Wanting to look and feel better is not either. There's a big difference between self care and self absorption.

Seeing and feeling results from diet and exercise takes time, but there are some small things we can do while we are waiting ... in the mean time. I'd love for you to share your ideas. And most importantly, read the verse above and apply it to your life as it is today. God has great love for us and He is faithful today (in the mean time) and always.

Blessings,

Melissa

7 comments:

Charlene Kidd said...

I find that if I take the time to get ready (hair and makeup) each day even the ones I where I am only going to be at home; I find that my disposition is so much better. That is my tip for today!!

Joyful said...

OK...this might sound silly, but I watch an old feel good 'chick flick' movie and even though that doesn't change my outward appearance, it changes my outlook and attitude.

Thanks for your messages to me today Melissa - you are a true delight! I have to call P31 again tomorrow...who knows I might talk to you yet!

Hope you've had a great day!!!
Love & prayers,
Joy

Michelle said...

Hey Melissa! Of course you can put my weight loss blog on your blog. I would love to encourage as many people as possible.
I love what you have said about taking care of ourselves, it is so true! I lock myself in the bathroom almost every day and take my shower. My kids are not allowed to disturb me unless it is an emergency! After this I feel 100% better!

Chef Diane said...

Melissa,

Thank you for your message today, I really needed to hear it. I struggle so much with self esteem. Something you said hit me between the eyes (sometimes we need that). You said "your worth it", I have to remember that. I was having a tough day and it just got better.
Thanks,
Diane

Jodie Wolfe said...

I guess that means we need to learn to be patient, doesn't it? :)

Kelly said...

I know I feel better about myself if I take the extra time for my face care, makeup, hair, nails before I leave for work or errands or church on the weekend. The days I haven't put as much into it I can really tell a difference in how I feel about myself. This includes dressing well too as opposed just throwing on sweats.

Christi Kubat said...

Recently, a friend emailed me the P31 devotional that had your blog on it. Melissa, I can relate to most of the inner turmoil you experience regarding beating yourself up about not being perfect. I think this is demonic attack against the minds and lives of women, keeping them stuck and focused on themselves. I know it has to be combatted with God's Word in spiritual warfare and I even get lazy with that. But what I have found comfort in is reminding myself that I am not perfect, I am not like Jesus yet, and it was hard for even Him to be in the wilderness and battle against Satan. I want to make a new committment to being in God's Word studying scripture to use against Satan's attacks against me. I hope that those who read these will rise up out of the burning ashes of defeat and join me. Thank you Melissa for your vulnerability and sincerity in your passion for empowering women.
Christi