strong, firm and steadfast

1 Peter 5:8-11
"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen."

A friend and I were talking yesterday and putting together some plans for accountability in the areas of fitness and diet. It's perhaps the first time that I have truly felt like I am fully trusting God for this always-daunting area of my life. My friend shared that God had been leading her to Verse 8 above and that it spoke to her about the ALERTNESS that comes when we are self-controlled. It's so easy to put food in our mouths without even paying attention. Munching on things that our bodies don't need while we watch TV or prepare a meal or when we're simply bored or feeling emotional. Learning self-controlling and being alert go hand in had.

I was looking up verse 8 later in the day - on my own - and read all of chapter 5. While I realize Peter was speaking of sufferings far beyond the scope of what I can even imagine I still believe that He is at work in me - restoring me, making me strong, firm and steadfast.

I am so grateful for the people God puts in my life to bring challenge, encouragement, accountability and to walk the path with me. I don't expect it to be easy but having someone to partner with certainly does make it GOOD.