Free 2 B Me

Day 30: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

FREE 2 B ME ~

For 30 days, I have taken photos of myself with words written on me. I don't do that...even though I am a photographer. But this wasn't for me as much as it was for God. It was all about what God has given me and who I am with God. I know how awesome God is and what all He does for me...but this challenge was also an opportunity to win a prize that would help me become a RevWell instructor. Then I will be able to reach others...even more for Him, and help them with their health. I didn't win the grand prize (but I was top 7!!)...but I won so much more than a material prize!!

What I didn't realize is how much I could grow within myself in those 30 days. I posted photos and things about myself that I didn't plan on. I tried to listen to God speak and do what I felt in my Spirit. Was it easy? NO! But I learned a lot about me! It also had me in the Bible more because I always tried to find verses that went with the word photos. I was also able to encourage others!

For the last day, today, I wanted something to sum it all up. I went back and forth over a couple and this is what I felt. And it's an awesome song as well. Through all of these photos, I got to be ME. Sometimes a word was to remind me what I need to be more of...sometimes it reminded me of who I already am in God. Not matter what...God has made it possible for me to be FREE TO BE ME!

**Free to be Me (Francesca Battistelli)

"Sometimes I believe
That I can do anything
Yet other times I think
I've got nothing good to bring

But You look at my heart and tell me
That I've got all You seek
And it's easy to believe, even though...

I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to put the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
And on my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me"

Psalm 139:14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #FreeToBeMe #FearfullyAndWonderfullyMade

I'm His

Day 29: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

I'M HIS ~
It's a choice...not one that God forces on us. I CHOOSE God! I give myself to HIM...heart, mind, soul, and body.

As I was looking up verses, this song came to mind:

No Longer Slaves ~ Bethel Music
"You unravel me with a melody
You surround me with a song
Of deliverance from my enemies
'Til all my fears are gone

I'm no longer a slave to fear
I am a child of God

From my mother's womb
You have chosen me
Love has called my name
I've been born again
Into your family
Your blood flows through my veins

I'm no longer a slave to fear
I am a child of God"

Romans 8:16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.

Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace

1 Corinthians 19-20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

John 1:12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #ImHis #ChildOfGod #JesusLovesMe

Forgiven

Day 28: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

FORGIVENESS~
to stop feeling angry or resentful toward someone for an offense, flaw, or mistake.

In my life, I have had to learn to forgive myself just as much as I have had to learn to forgive others. Words and actions from others toward me...they ended up making me dislike myself so much. I judged myself and never really loved myself. I was always self-conscious and calling myself fat and ugly. I would get mad at myself for no reason and when I made mistakes, I put myself down.

I didn't always do it in front of people...sometimes it was just between me and God. There were times I wanted to kill myself. I remember a time as a teenager I had my car at a riverbank, ready to drive into the river. The only thing that kept me from doing it was God. At the time, I thought it was other things that kept me from doing it...but looking back, I know it was God. He had much greater plans for me.

FORGIVENESS~ I have found it much harder to forgive myself for hurting myself...not physically, but emotionally and spiritually. I can much easier forgive others for the way they treat me and the things they say to me...but myself, that's the hardest.

Since starting my journey...I have started to see that I need to do this...and I have been doing it. I am starting to love myself. I see myself as beautiful. I am becoming bolder and not as shy. Yes, I am overweight...but I am fixing that. I did that to myself! I love God and I love ME~ I forgive ME! I make mistakes. I am not perfect and won't be until I reach Heaven. I say things I shouldn't...I do things I shouldn't...I think things I shouldn't. I don't always help when I should and I don't always listen when I should. But I am learning...I am growing...I am forgiving!

Through forgiveness of myself and others...God is healing me...inside out~

John 13:34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

Luke 6:37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Forgiveness #LoveYourself #ILoveMe #IForgiveMe #IForgiveYou

Empowered

Day 27: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

EMPOWERED ~
make stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their life and claiming their rights

So many days I feel like I want to give up. It's too hard to keep doing this. I literally feel satan fighting me at times. Trying so hard to make me believe I can't do this. But I know that I CAN and WILL. On the way to church yesterday, my husband told me I was Beautifully Empowered. Ironically, he told my best friend that, as well, I believe. And today...we were both dealing with feeling the opposite. Yesterday was such an amazing day with God...so of course the enemy is going to try to get us down. I REFUSE to stay there! Yes, I will acknowledge the emotions and feelings...but then I have to remind myself that I AM EMPOWERED.

God has given me the strength and confidence that I need. He has given me all that I need to take back my life! Back off, satan...you ain't getting MY pea-patch anymore! Ain't nothing like an EMPOWERED woman!

Philippians 4:13 I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #EmpoweredWoman #Strong

Beautiful

Day 26: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

Today, one of my best friends (whom I call my Butterfly Sister), Renee' Easter Weddle, took a stand. She did something that satan tried his best to stop. She danced. To some, that's nothing. But for someone who has never truly felt beautiful, fights depression daily, and hides behind herself...that is a HUGE step. Because she done it in front of the whole church. She didn't just do it for herself though...even though that would have been enough. No...she did it for others. She did it for their healing...physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. I know that one she specifically did it for was ME.

She danced to the song "Beautiful" by Kari Jobe. Such beautiful lyrics that say so much! And today, Renee' Easter Weddle was more beautiful than I have ever seen her!! <3 She was shining brighter than ever before.

Then, Pastor Larry Johnson preached on not giving up our pea-patch. And gave us all a packet of peas, to remember this. For me, it went right along with Renee dancing. She took her stand by dancing for God. She stood right there in the middle of her pea-patch and fought hell with all she had! I am blessed and thankful that I am part of her pea-patch and that she will fight hell for me!

So, tonight, I do this photo for Renee' Easter Weddle...but also for me. Because she is beautiful inside and out...but she always makes me feel beautiful as well! Through her, God reminded me that when we listen to HIM and step out of our comfort zone...our beauty SHINES bright!

PS. In the photo is also my "pea-patch" packet. Health is a big part of my pea-patch right now. It hasn't been easy...but I ain't giving it up and I am fighting for that along with many other things in my personal pea-patch. I'm taking a stand...hence the leg and foot photo. satan sucks and he's lost this battle!

2 Samuel 23:12 But Shammah took his stand in the middle of the field. He defended it and struck the Philistines down, and the Lord brought about a great victory.

Proverbs 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.

If you would like to help me further my health & fitness journey...please go here, share & pray with me!
https://www.youcaring.com/stephanie-repnyek-592017

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Beautiful #MyPeaPatch

Grace & Mercy

Day 24 & 25: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

Mercy~
compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm

Grace~
the free and unmerited favor of God

I am so thankful and blessed that God has had mercy and grace upon me throughout my life. I deserve NEITHER...but He loves me enough to give me MERCY and GRACE...and many other blessings. Because of this, I do my best to give the same to others. God, Forgive Me, for those times that my flesh overtakes me and I don't give mercy and grace like I have received from you!

Luke 6:36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Ephesians 4:7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Mercy #Grace #ThankYouJesus

Celebrating ME!

Ps...I have learned that it's perfectly OK to celebrate ME!

Did my monthly Weight Loss Photos today. I have been doing them monthly since Feb...same shorts and sports bra. It's amazing how you can see the difference when doing this.

4 months...35 lbs...27 inches (5 in my waist, 4.5 in my hips, 5 in my chest, 1 in my neck, and the rest in my arms & legs).

God is AWESOME! Without HIS help, HIS strength...I could not do this!

Peace

Day 23: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

PEACE ~
freedom from disturbance; quiet and tranquility; calm

Another great workout today! I can feel myself changing inside and out. I looked at myself in the full length mirror...only my leggings and sports bra. I really looked. Yes, I still have quite a bit of weight left to be where I want to be healthy-wise. But as I looked at myself, I smiled. Just looking at myself this way is new. Before I started my journey, I HATED looking at my body. Now, I see so much difference. Not just physically, either. I've lost 35 lbs and many inches...and I am proud of that. But the biggest change has been INSIDE! I have a PEACE with myself that I haven't had in a long time. I love me for me! I am still working on me...inside and out...but I have finally learned that weight loss isn't just about physical weight loss. You have to lose a lot of emotional & spiritual weight, as well. It's funny, actually. Every time I start to post this type of photo of myself...satan gets scared. He tries to stop me by putting doubts in my mind. Making feel like I will be judged, looked down on, and made fun of. What's so awesome to me, now, is that I don't care. My "flesh" may try to overtake my Spirit...but God has already won! Just looking at myself today, I realized there is a whole lot more "weight" gone than 35 lbs. There's a lifetime of junk that is being laid at the foot of the cross. Thank you, Jesus, for having patience with me and showing me the way!

PS...There is no magic pill, shot, or potion. It takes lots of dedication and hard work. Eat healthy and as clean as possible and exercise any way that you can. PRAYER ~ The #1 key!

‪#‎BoldInTheSoul‬ ‪#‎RevelationWellness‬ ‪#‎Peace‬ ‪#‎ILoveMe‬ ‪#‎JesusFreak‬

Joy

Day 22: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

JOY ~
a feeling of great pleasure and happiness

A few years back, I had lost my joy. Actually, I had let it get stolen by satan. It took me a few years to get out of that "hole" but I did. I refuse to let it get taken away again! Sure, I have my moments...yes, I still get my feelings hurt. But my joy is still there! I look around me at my life, my family, my friends, my church...all the beauty that God has created. Good or bad times...I am full of JOY! <3 The joy of the Lord is my strength! He makes it all worth while! He makes life beautiful in so many ways...we just have to take a moment and look around and see it!

Nehemiah 8:10 ...For the joy of the Lord is your strength

Romans 5:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Psalm 126:2-3 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.

2 Corinthians 4:8-9 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Joy

It Is Well

Day 21: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

No matter what happens in this life...it IS well with my soul!

~ It is Well with my Soul ~
by: Horatio Spafford

When peace like a river attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea-billows roll,
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to know;
It is well, it is well with my soul.

It is well with my soul,
It is well, it is well with my soul

Tho' Satan should buffet, tho' trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed his own blood for my soul.

It is well with my soul,
It is well, it is well with my soul

My sin - oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin - not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to His cross and I bear it no more;
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, oh my soul.

It is well with my soul,
It is well, it is well with my soul

And, Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll,
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend
A song in the night, oh my soul!

It is well with my soul,
It is well, it is well with my soul

About the song: www.spaffordhymn.com

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #ItIsWellWithMySoul

Faith

Day 20: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

FAITH ~
complete trust or confidence in someone or something.
belief in the existence of God

Faith is complete trust. In the natural, that is hard to even think about comprehending. But in the Spirit...it's totally understandable. There have been so many times in my life that FAITH is the only thing that got me through. Believing and knowing that GOD could and would get me through!

In 4 days, it will be 4 years since a devastating injury that I still deal with daily. Some days can be really difficult. My flesh still asks, "WHY? Will I ever be healed?" Yet in my Spirit, I know that I already AM healed! The doctor wasn't sure I'd have an arm...most less be able to use it again. But I can and I do.

What about faith? I have FAITH that I will be whole and complete again. Will it be here on earth? I do think so...but only God knows. What I DO know is that through FAITH...I have been able to keep going when I didn't want to or feel as though I could. I have been able to reach out to others to give them hope. I have been able to use this injury of mine to inspire others...to shine my light as bright as I can for Jesus!

THAT is what it's all about! Not just believing or hoping...but TRUSTING God and KNOWING that He will work things out when the time is right! Until then...KEEP THE FAITH! I have found that the greater the faith I have...the more peace and joy I have in my life. Storms and trials aren't fun, by any means...but having FAITH and having GOD...it makes it all worth it!

PS...when those prayers are answered...we always look back and see things differently than when we were in the storm!

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Faith #Hebrews111

Hope

Day 19: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

HOPE ~
a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen
a feeling of trust

In a world & life where I have never truly trusted anyone, including myself...when I gave my life to God, I found that trust and I found a hope that I never had. Even when my plans go wrong and things don't work out...I remember that GOD has plans for me. His plans are MUCH greater than my plans and HIS plans are always best.

He plans to give me HOPE and a FUTURE! To give me a prosperous life...in MANY different ways.

The hope that I know have in my heart and soul is what gets me through each day. In a world that is filled with chaos and anger...God gives me HOPE for the future. No matter what happens in this world and this life...I know WHOSE I am...and I know WHERE I am headed!

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Hope #Jeremiah2911

Blessed

Day 18: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

BLESSED ~
endowed with divine favor and protection
having a sacred nature : connected with God
very welcome, pleasant, or appreciated

Just remember...just because you have storms and trials in life...that doesn't mean you are not blessed. God can and will use the storms and trials to make you STRONGER! He will use these storms to teach you new things. And He will also use these times to bless you even more!

I have also learned that I am blessed by giving. Not just money...but by giving time, love, helping others, prayer, volunteering, using my gifts to bless others without expecting anything in return, listening...yes, just everyday things. I am BLESSED to be able to bless others! And when I reach out to others, rather than myself, I know that it blesses God as well!

I AM BLESSED!

James 1:12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

1 Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.”

Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Blessed

Courageous

Day 17: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

COURAGEOUS ~
not deterred by anger or pain; brave

Being courageous isn't easy. Especially on days that you just want to lock the doors and curl up in your bed and sleep the time away. When you are hurting, physically...spiritually...or mentally, it's not easy to push those feelings aside and keep going.

It takes courage to step out of your box in life...letting go, and letting God! It takes courage to love when people don't love you. It takes courage to be good to people that treat you like you are gum on the bottom of their shoe. It takes courage to know that you MUST let God be in charge of your life...to get to the best of your life!

Some days, I can literally feel how courageous I am. I feel strong. I feel pumped. I feel that I can conquer the world. Other days, I think people are crazy when they tell me that I am courageous. I just feel like I am the weakest person in the world...spiritually, physically, and mentally. THAT is when I pray and talk to God even more. It's when I must make myself do what I need to do...even though my body doesn't feel it.

BE COURAGEOUS!

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Courageous #Strong

Fierce

Day 16: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

FIERCE ~
Showing a heartfelt and powerful intensity. Strong. Passionate

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

I love my Heavenly Daddy, but it took me a long time to realized that my weight loss journey needed to include HIM, as much as myself. I had tried everything in the past, but I always gave up. Only with God by my side can I be FIERCE in my actions & moving forward to getting to know my inner Spirit with God...but also gaining control of my outer body. It takes both to make this happen. Inner and Outer!

It takes being FIERCE...STRONG...INTENSE...PASSIONATE to make this happen. It takes NOT being afraid to try new things. Even if you think you can't or even if you don't know the outcome. It takes hard work. Determination. NOT giving up...even when you mess us. And we are human...we WILL mess up. I've learned to learn from it and move forward. It takes letting yourself have some fun & treating yourself...but knowing you will need to do what it takes to stay on track in the long run!

I AM FIERCE! I am strong! I am passionate! But without God by my side...leading me...I couldn't be any of these things! <3

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Fierce

Becoming New

Day 15: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

BECOMING NEW ~

Today has been a long and trying day for many reasons. I just wanted to be in my bed until tomorrow. I almost didn't go to church because of how I felt. But I knew I needed to. I didn't want to tonight. But I NEEDED to! The song below is a new one they sang Sunday and I have been singing it every since. Tonight, they sang it again. And Tammy Slate Johnson really made me think...if I really am becoming like the One I am beholding...what do I look like and what I am becoming? I pray that when others look at me, that I shine like the light of Jesus! I don't want them to see me...I want them to see Jesus IN me! Each day, I am becoming new. The old is gone! That's why satan was fighting me so bad today. He knew the peace that I would receive tonight. He knew the gift that God had in store for me tonight. He knew my Spirit needed it. So he tried to keep me away...but satan...YOU LOSE. GOD WINS!!

PS...this was my favorite of the bunch because in it...I was thanking God when the shutter went off!
~

I love the way, I love the way
You move my heart
I want to stay, I want to stay
right where You are

I am becoming like
the One I’m beholding
I am becoming like
the One I’m beholding

The old is gone and
the new has come
The old is gone and
the new has come

"The New Has Come" ~Kelanie Gloeckler

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #BecomingNew #BecomingLikeTheOneImBeholding

Unique ~ I Am Me

Day 14: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

UNIQUE ~ One of a kind. Unlike anything else.

That's ME. I am UNIQUE! God created me this way. He did NOT want me like anyone else. I am ME. I AM HIM! He made me in HIS image...no one else's. He is the ONLY person I want to be like!

In a world full of people wanting to be like everyone else...BE UNIQUE! It's the way that God created you!

It has taken me years to truly start loving me. To truly start seeing who I am. To start coming out of my "box"...my "shell". It's taking time, but I am getting there and I'm not giving up until I am where God wants me to be. <3

I am BEAUTIFUL. I am STRONG. I am LOVED. I am UNIQUE. I am ME!

Psalm 139:13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

Jeremiah 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

Isaiah 64:8 Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Unique #IAmMe

Worship

Day 13: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

WORSHIP: showing respect, love, and admiration for God.

Worship comes in many forms and I find myself getting a little bolder with worship. Just a few steps at a time. Raising hands, singing, dancing, twirling, jumping, shouting, crying, talking...so much can be used for worship. Even exercise can be used for worship! Even the nutrition we put in our bodies could be used to worship! We should be using our bodies to worship God in any way possible! I'm learning...and I am getting there!

Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

John 4:24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.

Isaiah 12:5 Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.

Psalm 66:4 All the earth bows down to you, they sing praise to you, they sing the praises of your name.

Psalm 149:3 Let them praise his name with dancing

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Worship #Dance #Sing #Love

Overcomer

Day 12: Bold In The Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

Overcome: to conquer; defeat: to overcome the enemy.
to overcome one's weaknesses.

I usually make sure my belly is covered. Don't want anyone to see it. Not only because of the stretch marks, but also because of size. But I am ME. I am also changing ME. For the better! It's not about being "little" or "skinny" for me. Sure, I am excited for that...but for me...it's about being healthy and being where God intends for me to be!

God did NOT make me this way. I made me this way through a lifetime of not taking care of my body. A lifetime of bad eating and not exercising. A lifetime of shame...and trying to eat my way out of it. NO MORE! Yes, I am still getting used to all of this...but I am actively working on it. God is with my and getting me there.

By far, this is the most difficult photos I've posted for this challenge, so far. Why? I've always been shy and I have also been ashamed of my body. I am getting over each one, day by day. It's not easy...but I AM an OVERCOMER!

I have overcome many things in my life. I didn't have the easiest life growing up. Lots of different reasons. I didn't have a lot, but I did have love. But moving around a lot, being overweight, being poor, being shy, and being smart...well...it didn't make life easy. Because of all of that, I was bullied. It still impacts me today, though I am finally overcoming it and realizing that I am ME. I AM beautiful and so is my body.

Stretch marks? I have had a beautiful daughter that helped get those. She was worth each and every one. I have also had to deal with medications that brought on stretch marks. Made them much worse.

I have, I am, and I will OVERCOME!

One of my favorite songs by Mandisa:
"Everybody's been down
Hit the bottom, hit the ground
Ooh, you're not alone
Just take a breath, don't forget
Hang on to His promises
He wants You to know

You're an overcomer
Stay in the fight ‘til the final round
You're not going under
‘Cause God is holding you right now
You might be down for a moment
Feeling like it's hopeless
That's when He reminds You
That you're an overcomer
You're an overcomer

The same Man, the Great I am
The one who overcame death
He's living inside of You
So just hold tight, fix your eyes
On the one who holds your life
There's nothing He can't do
He's telling you"

John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

Romans 12:21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

1 John 4:4
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

1 John 5:5 Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Overcomer #ICAN #IWill #IAm

Loved

Day 11: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

LOVED

~We all know what love is. We all want it. We all NEED it.
The greatest love ever known is the love shown by Jesus on the cross.

We all mess up in life. We all feel like we are unlovable. We don't always show love like we should. Many times, we let the opposite of love show. It's the flesh...plain and simple. I try my best to let the light of Jesus shine through me in all that I do. I try my best to love everyone...even those that hurt me and are mean to me. There are times I fail. Thankfully...my God NEVER fails and neither does His LOVE. He loves me anyway...and lets me start new all the time!

Thank you, Heavenly Daddy, for your awesome love! Thank you, Jesus, for loving us so much that you died for us! <3

Matthew 22:36-38 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Romans 12:9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Loved #JesusIsNumberOne #GreatestIsLove

Trust

Day 10: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

TRUST
~ Such a strong word. It means a firm belief in someone or something.

Trust has been a very difficult thing for me in my lifetime. I had to really TRUST God before I could trust anyone else. And still it's hard to trust others. It can cause some major pain...physically and emotionally and mentally...even spiritually.

But when I started putting my trust in God and letting go of the junk of the past...I found it was much easier to start trusting myself & others. When we listen to God, we know that it will all be ok...somehow, someway. Trusting in Him is the ONLY way I have made it through so many trials and storms in my life. Plus, when I trust in HIM...He will let me know who to trust and who not to!

Easy? NO! Our flesh wants to control us...but we have to make the conscious effort to let our Spirit be in control! TRUST GOD!

Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #TrustInHim #TRUST

Fearless

Day 9: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

Fear Less or Fearless ... both work! Means to be BRAVE. Not afraid.

Since I started my journey, I have become more fearless...and I do fear LESS. There have been times that I feared doing certain things while working out...but I decided to at least try it. Sure, some things I just can't do (at the moment!) and that's ok. But some things, I was just scared to try. But I made myself do it anyway!! And by fearing less...and being fearless...it has made me stronger! Not just physically...but emotional and spiritually!

I can do ALL things through CHRIST who strengthens me. He has definitely shown me that! <3 Thank you, Heavenly Daddy!

2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Fearless #ICan #IWill #NeverGiveUp #KeepMoving

Final Ultimate Weight Loss Class -- Spring Session

8 weeks...3.13 % body weight lost...10 lbs GONE... Lots of physical & emotional limitations that I placed on myself GONE!

There is NO easy fix! Hard work & determination with a major lifestyle & attitude change is a MUST!

No starving needed... I ate some awesome & healthy foods! Found some new favorites! When I got off track...I stopped a moment to refocus & get back on track.

With GOD ... All thing are possible! — feeling excited.

Changed

Day 8: BoldInTheSoul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

CHANGED ~ I am NOT the same person as I was just a few months ago. I started this journey and knew this time would be different. Why? This time, I've really invited God on the journey with me. Too often we try to do things ourselves and do it our way. Not talking to God or asking Him what is best. And usually we end up giving up when it gets too hard and we feel like we don't have the strength to keep going.

That's true...WE don't have the strength...HE does and He will give it to us as we need it and walk in obedience with Him. Just like earthly parents, God wants what is best for us. Which is why we don't always get what we ask for. This is NOT easy on my journey. There is hard work & determination involved and there are many times I tell myself NO when it comes to things I want.

Why? Because I knew if I didn't change my lifestyle and myself for the better...then I would be changing myself to a death-style. Yes...I still have my moments and slip-ups...but I have learned how to be accountable...and reach my hand to God, help pick myself up, dust myself off, and keep moving forward!

PS. I started to crop out my saggy skin...but I am putting it all out there through this. For a couple of reasons: I am learning to love me, no matter what. I want to encourage others in their own journey and their own skin. I want to show others that God loves you no matter what...and loves you just as you are. Finally...I am changing into who I need to be...and to get there, I need to remember where I am coming from!

2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Changed #JourneyWithGOD #ICanDoAllThingsThroughChrist #ButterflyGirl

Cherished Princess

Day 7: Bold in the Soul Challenge ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

I am a CHERISHED PRINCESS ~

Cherished: to feel or show great love for

Jeremiah 31:3: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness."

Psalm 47:7: For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise.

My Heavenly Daddy is the greatest King...and He cherishes me! He loves me with a love above all loves!

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #Cherished #Princess

Chains Falling

Day 6: Bold in the Soul Challenge ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

This is one of my all-time favorite songs. Has gotten me through a lot of rough days...especially during my surgeries and healing. And just thinking of the words make me remember...There IS power in the name of JESUS! You CAN do this!! Don't give up!

"There is power in the name of Jesus
To break every chain
Break every chain
Break every chain

All sufficient sacrifice
So freely given
Such a price

Bought our redemption
 Heaven's gates swing wide

There's an army rising up
There's an army rising up
There's an army rising up

To Break every chain
 Break every chain Break every chai
n
~I hear the chains falling ~I hear the chains falling"

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #BreakEveryChain #ChainsFalling

God's Girl

Day 5: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

I'm GOD'S GIRL! Good times, bad times, sad times, happy times...when I do everything right (not sure I've ever been there lol)...when I do things wrong. No matter what...God loves me just as I am! I AM GOD'S GIRL!

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness #GodsGirl

Beautifully Broken

Day 4: Bold in the Soul challenge by Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

Beautifully Broken ~
I have been broken so many times in my life emotionally, spiritually, and a few years back, physically. BUT...I have come to realize that when we are broken, that is when God works best! He can then put us back together the way we are supposed to be. Making us even BETTER!! See that scar on my arm? It's a reminder that I am MUCH stronger than the physical. My spirit-man KNOWS that God has made me so much more stronger than I can ever imagine.

Until I get to Heaven, I will never be completely "whole". So until I get there...I will be Beautifully Broken!

Isaiah 64:8 Yet you, Lord, are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
we are all the work of your hand.

#BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness

Warrior

Day 3 of Bold in the Soul challenge ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole

WARRIOR: a person who fights in battles and is known for having courage and skill.

I've had to fight many different battles in my life. Sometimes I just wanted to give up and give in. But I REFUSE! God is my STRENGTH! He fights the battles for me and with me! Without battles...I would never have known victory. Without battles...I would never have grown. Without battles...I would not be the woman that I am today! Thank you, Heavenly Daddy, for getting me through each and every battle in life. For giving me the courage, strength, and wisdom to make become BETTER...not bitter!

  #BoldInTheSoul #RevelationWellness

I Am Strong

Day 2: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole I AM STRONG!

 #boldinthesoul #revelationwellness #faithTHENfitness

Healed

An awesome contest this month from Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole to show how we are Bold in the Soul.

Revelation Wellness is a fitness ministry that works to make you healthy and whole from the INSIDE out with GOD as #1 in the ministry! www.revelationwellness.org.  My journey includes becoming a Revelation Wellness instructor and helping others, just as God has helped me! I owe it all to HIM and want to praise and worship HIM with all that I am. This is a way to help do that and to give back!



Day 1: Bold in the Soul ~ Revelation Wellness - Healthy & Whole ---  HEALED!

It took lots of Spiritual & emotional healing by God to get me to the place where I could finally start my fitness journey! #boldinthesoul #revelationwellness #faithTHENfitness