Flesh and spirit can't live in harmony ("For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh; for they are opposed to one another," Galatians 5:17).

It is good news that Christ has given us everything we need for victory, and the Spirit will prevail over us. Everyone has been discouraged at times on their journey to better health. If you're feeling disheartened today, I want to remind you of some truths. First, you can succeed if you don't quit. Quitting is the only true form of failure.

I know it can feel like plodding through muck and mire, and you may feel tired and discouraged, but pray this promise Psalm 40:1-3. I waited patiently for God to help me; then, he listened and heard my plea. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the bog and the mire, and set my feet on a hard, firm path. He steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, of praises to our God. Many will hear of the glorious things he did for me, stand in awe before the Lord, and put their trust in him.

Second, it is not necessary to be perfect to be victorious in Christ. Winning a war is not perfect. Christ perfects our victory. He is your strength and your song. You will be able to endure because of him.

God of glory, we thank you for who you are. You are powerful to save! You win hearts and minds. You conquered the grave and won the victory. You claim us as your own and defend us in battle. You search us and know us, you know our strengths, you know our weaknesses, and you love us equally in both. The number of hairs on each of our heads was known to you before our birth. We praise your presence and care for us. We pray that you accept it as a beautiful and pleasing offering and that it begins an excellent and influential work in each woman's life that you intend to prosper and complete. Thank you for equipping us with everything we need to fight the battle and to live in victory as we continue our journey. The Spirit of truth keeps us undeceived and able to distinguish truth from lies easily. We need strength to come to you daily, to gird ourselves up with the truth and remain connected to the vine. Help us prioritize nourishing our spirits so we can easily renew our minds and walk by your Spirit's power. Let us give value to health so they will be places where your spirit can dwell pleasingly and powerfully. Help us to live lives worthy of our calling and provide us with a profound understanding of our purpose. Lord, I claim your promises over each of these women, and I declare a prayer of strength over us all. Lord, we cry out, "May my hand never weaken, my feet never stumble, my sword never rest, my shield never rust, my helmet never shatter, my breastplate never fall, as my strength rests in the power of thy might." In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray, amen