We are supposed to maximize God, which keeps our weaknesses in perspective.

Through relationship with God, man is finally capable of doing that which he was incapable of doing on his own. That's what walking in the Spirit is all about.

But even in the darkest parts, I have immediate access to Him.

I've realized this isn't as much about losing the weight as it is gaining truth—the truth of who I am in Christ and how I am made for more than this constant, self-defeating struggle. It's the truth that reminds me a scale can measure my physical body but never my worth as a woman. And it's the truth that God loves me the way I am, but He loves me too much to leave me stuck in a place of defeat.

When we have Christ, we are full—fully loved and accepted and empowered to say no.

To love God is to cooperate with His grace. And

Imperfect changes are slow steps of progress wrapped in grace … imperfect progress.

the rest of us with laundry, junk drawers, and cellulite. WEBSITE: If you enjoyed this book by Lysa, you'll love all the

If I can be honest, the real problem with the gap in my countertop was my own pride. It's a sign of imperfection, and I don't like my imperfections to show. Lord, please set my heart free from these prideful tendencies.

I am made to rise up, do battle with my issues and, using the Lord's strength in me, defeat them — spiritually, physically, and mentally — to the glory of God.

You're giving yourself too much credit, the only reason you have any grace (to give or receive) is through Christ.

It's easier to construct a more palatable life story—where I can draw straight lines from each hurt of the past to the healing I later experienced—than to face the raw truth. I prefer to neatly match each hard part of my testimony with the soft place I landed in the middle of God's grace, forgiveness, and restoration as proof I am walking in freedom.