Doing All Through Christ

I was recently diagnosed with pre­diabetes. I can’t seem to keep myself motivated to go the distance. Can you help me?

We are sorry to hear about your diagnosis and have good news: prediabetes does not always have a bad ending! Tackling your lifestyle is undoubtedly the best path forward. We hope our words will be encouraging, but please keep your local health-care team engaged. You may benefit from spending time at a lifestyle center and following up with a health coach. Just as Jesus, driven by the joy set before Him, endured the cross and its indignities (Heb. 12:2), you can be strengthened by keeping your eyes on the prize of better health and vitality. Allow the vision of a joyful, healthier you to fuel your determination even in the face of challenges. 

How have you met challenges before now? Reflect on your past successes, drawing strength from the knowledge that you have overcome challenges before. Remember, you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Phil. 4:13). God is on your side and wants you to be healthier. The Holy Spirit has guided you and given you the power to stay on track before and with other issues, He can do it again! Draw upon the strategies that led you to success in the past. Whether it was setting specific goals, seeking support from others, or finding solace in God through prayer, employ these proven strategies and adapt them to your current journey. In Christ you are more than an overcomer (Rom. 8:37).

Research shows that setting small “action goals” that you can achieve consistently is effective, since consistency is worth more than intensity when changing habits. Break your big goals down into manageable steps, establishing a routine that aligns with your projected outcome. Remember the promise “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it” (Phil. 1:6). Celebrate each milestone along the way. On days when motivation wanes, let the Holy Spirit remind you of your and His commitment. Rely on Him to do what only He can do so that you have the power to do what you must do.

Having an accountability partner or diabetes “coach” can help support and facilitate your success. Their effectiveness lies in the accountability, encouragement, and shared responsibility they provide, helping you stay motivated and committed to your goals. Embrace the collaborative process, understanding that transformation takes time. Consider becoming a diabetes “coach” yourself; in helping others, you will also help yourself! Pray and be thankful for every success. Trust God: the journey is worth it. Health rewards await you every day even if you don’t see them. Every step in the right direction is better than no step at all. May God grant us strength, peace, and wholeness even in our brokenness—true shalom!