THE MIDDLE

The middle stage is the crucial point. You discovered the change or resolution was not as easy, as verbalized. Your positive mindset begins to waver. The previous fanfare has left. The sounds of defeat and despair begins. You alone may be your only supporter. You may get a couple of stragglers who voice support, but most have moved on. You may be surprised at those who encourage you to give up or remain the same. This negative encouragement can stem from the people, who are envious at your goal or accomplishment, because they may lack the fortitude to do what you are doing.

This is the stage where you want to give up. Unfortunately, this is the stage many people will give up. Obstacles and afflictions hit, at this level. All things are thrown at you to give up. You may feel alone with all the unexpected events and overwhelming obstacles.

This can be the anger stage. You become angry because people are not supporting you as in the beginning. You may blame others, for your struggles. For example, if you are attempting to lose weight you blame your spouse, for any of your backsliding, because he continued to bring home junk food. Bear in mind, this is your goal, not theirs.

The middle is the stage you may begin to question your change or goal, asking yourself, is it worth it?

You may feel like you are alone. You are never alone. This is the stage and time to lean on God.

• Remember, you will be tested. Nothing worth achieving will be easy. If it was easy, everyone would do it.
• Learn to celebrate every step along the way big or small, relish in every accomplishment you have achieved
• You may backslide. It’s okay, if you lost a small battle. Don’t beat yourself up. Pump yourself up and get be back, in the war. Don’t let a backslide turn into a landslide. Forgive yourself and get back into the game.
• Take a hold of God’s peace and His strength. Where you are weak, He will make you strong.

• If your change is God ordained, then trust God, it will be done.

• Be of good courage.

The middle may be the stage of giving up. Keep going, keep fighting and your rewards will follow.

The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust. Ruth 2:12 King James Version (KJV)

Or let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me. Isaiah 27:5 King James Version (KJV)