Chasing Strong

My interest in health and wellness started way back in high school, but for all the wrong reasons. I had one goal…to create a smaller version of myself. I became very obsessed with the scale, always chasing after a smaller number. I was willing to do whatever it took to get the results I was looking for…crazy diets, restriction, eliminating entire food groups, excessive amounts of cardio…you name it, I tried it.

After years of the Lord working on my heart, I realized there was more to life than going from one restrictive diet to the next while obsessing over food and exercise. I knew I was made for more than that. I was beginning to find healing from this dysfunctional relationship I had with food and my body when my journey took an unexpected turn. I got sick and was later diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder.

This illness consumed my life. Every decision I made was influenced by fear. I felt sorry for myself and became scared to do almost anything. As a result, I became weak physically and mentally. Thankfully, the Lord never gave up on me. He never does! Finally, after almost ten years of battling this chronic condition, God pulled me out of my self-pity and slowly began showing me a better way.

This is when my perspective really started to change. Creating a smaller version of myself was no longer the goal…instead, I started chasing after a STRONGER version of myself.

But what did this look like? What did I have to start doing differently?

—> I had to stop letting perfection get in the way of making progress. I knew there would always be ups and downs. So when I had a bad day…instead of starting over…I would get back up and do the next right thing.

—> I had to stop letting the number on the scale define me. I knew my worth and my value had nothing to do with that number.

—> I had to stop labeling foods as good or bad and fearing certain food groups. I was amazed at how much better I felt when I stopped dieting all the time and started giving my body what it needed to really thrive.

—> I started doing less cardio, and I learned how to lift weights. When I walked into the gym for the first time, I was terrified and embarrassed…but I made the decision to keep showing up and embrace being uncomfortable. I focused on the daily wins and was patient with myself through the process.

God used this time to show me that I was stronger and capable of doing more than what I had given myself credit for all those years. I believe that He wanted me to see that I could do more than what I ever thought possible for myself as long as I allowed Him to work through me.

And here’s the good news…the same is true for you!

Jesus said, “I came so that you may have life, and may have it abundantly.” John 10:10

I now believe that I have walked this path so that I can help others to see that they are capable of more. To experience freedom from restrictive diets. To learn how to set a goal and then work hard to meet that goal. To be resolved to fight back after injuries and illness. To understand that being consistent and patient is far more important than perfection. And to decide never to give up no matter how hard it gets.

Even now, I have to work on these things daily. I am still very much a work in progress. Life is hard, but I am determined to stay in the fight.

I encourage the same for you…never settle for less. God has equipped you with the ability to do more than what you ever thought possible for yourself. No matter what season of life you are in…it is never too late to start Chasing Strong!

– Cherry Hudnall

Follow Cherry at @cherryhudnall