Ever since folks got on such a weight binge in this country, I’ve heard “lose weight through exercise.” There are new plans and new exercise equipment every day on the TV. And people are spending millions on plans that they give up in a few days.

The latest I’ve seen (at this writing) is a headliner in the Kansas City Star, about a woman, and I quote, has “been trying to lose weight for 18 years.” And now she’s on one that for the moment) is working.

But get this: she’s a GYM TEACHER! So if she’s been standing in front of gym classes for 18 years, and has fought a weight problem all the way through, what does that say for exercise. Not much.

And here’s the kicker that I’ve been preaching for longer than she’s been exercising: I say that to lose weight, take normal food helpings and no seconds. Folks, it’s all in overeating. Of course it’s even easier if you lay off those gooey sweet things.

This lady gave herself away when she admitted in the news story, that through it all, she still loved her chocolate and her 35 cans of Pepsi a week! With that “I can’t say no” attitude, she’ll gain back any pounds she loses.

The Apostle Paul said “bodily exercise profited little,” but he didn’t say NOT to exercise. He merely told me not to do ANYthing to excess. I know of a person who was so high on exercising and sports, that he lost his wife over it. He cared more for muscles than Mom. My pet word, Biblically, is “moderation.”

But even more important than weight problems, is HEART problems. No, I’m not talking about heart attacks and by-passes…I’m talking about what we call the “heart,” that is really your “soul.” When all is said and done, if you don’t know where you’ll spend eternity, you have a heart problem with a capital “H.”

Put your life in order by giving yourself to the Lord, then let the others take their place. But the rule about normal portions and no seconds still goes about your table manners. Even Christians eat too much and pay the price to doctors and hospitals and funeral directors.

Need help? Get right with God, then ask Him to help you.

37BT Bill Thornton March 14, 2007