In January 2003, I was physically unfit, emotionally apathetic, and spiritually starved. Beyond my family, my relationships were non-existent - I didn't need anyone and didn't want to be bothered with anyone. Life was good; I was handling things just fine by myself and had let God slip to a distant priority. I was self-centered and complacent, happy to be on this plateau in my comfort zone. Perhaps the worst of all - I consciously chose to be this way.

I saw an ad in the paper for First Place. Normally, I would not have noticed. I didn't need to lose weight - wasn't I fine the way I was? Looking deep inside, I knew I was not where I wanted to be at all, but I had no "desire" to change. Nor did I have any idea how or what to "change into." So I committed just to make myself available and try. God would have to do the rest.

Ever faithful, God met me right where I was. He placed people and circumstances in my life where I couldn't miss them, and He used them to redirect my heart on a daily basis. Over the next 6 months I lost 35 lbs, 3 dress sizes, and 14 inches and have kept it off for almost 2 years. I feel great, find I actually have cheekbones, realize the double chin I had has disappeared, and have re-discovered the joy of shopping as I try on clothes that are still too big.  

But the physical changes were nothing compared to the transformation God made in my heart and life. My self-centeredness was replaced with an empathy and compassion for others that I hadn't had for a long time. With practice and His guidance, relationships and encouragement are replacing my fierce independence. I learned to put God first as my friend, companion, encourager and supporter, reaping the wonderful blessings of a relationship with Him. We began to speak to each other again on a daily basis and my spirit was renewed with His life and vitality. My eyes were opened to His vision, my mind challenged with His potential, my heart blossomed with His faithfulness and steadfast love. I became less stressed as I traded structure and control for a more relaxed approach to life. I now replace personal planning and expectations with faith in God, trusting Him to take me where He wants me to go. Thankfully, He has led me to become a First Place Leader myself, and I am continually blessed to watch other lives transformed by his grace and love. I attribute all of my success to an ever faithful, loving God who again reminds me that He always exceeds my expectations.

Putting God back in first place has been a struggle for my independent, prideful nature. Putting nutrition and my health first is a daily sacrifice of "immediate gratification" and "temporary satisfaction." Relinquishing areas of my life that I once held firmly in my grasp is intimidating - even scary. Venturing into human relationships is time-consuming and a sacrifice of energy and emotion. But making choices for God is rewarding, fulfilling and inspiring. The joy and peace that comes from deciding to put God First is indescribable. I am just beginning to understand the depths of God's love and discover the heights of His purpose. As my journey continues, I gladly and expectantly follow.

Jo Burkholder
Cranberry Twp., PA

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