I am a little bit hungry today as I have started trying to eat a little bit better.  I had a physical last month and my cholesterol was a little high.  My good cholesterol was in good shape but my bad cholesterol was too high.  The overall number was not too bad, it was 199.  The level where my doctor says it is high is 200.   The level where my wife says it is high is a different story.  That is why I am so hungry today.  No more breakfast tacos and cookies for mid morning snacks.  Two years ago when I had my last physical my overall number was 176.  I think my number has gone up because I have not been eating as healthy in the last year since I started taking some extra classes.  I have gotten into the habit of eating some extra goodies during my study times.  This not only accounts for the extra 24 points on the cholesterol scale but also accounts for some extra numbers on the bathroom scale.  Right now I need to lose about 15 pounds to get to my target weight…………………………..

Sorry, I took a break to chew on a pencil next to my keyboard.  So far, things have been going well.  I am awaiting my final grades on a couple of classes which end this week and I am anxiously awaiting the start of my final two classes.  The classes don’t start until January 10^th or so and I have read half of my books for those classes already.  I will be glad when I am done.  Taking the classes has kept me off of the basketball court and out of the gym as much as I used to go.   That probably accounts for the extra 15 pounds… that and the oatmeal cookies.  I tend to stress eat.  Anytime I am feeling additional anxiety or start working extra hard for extended periods of time I tend to reach for the comfort food.  I guess it is better than some alternatives.  I have gotten better at not totally giving in to this habit over the years but I still need work.  As we know there is only one appropriate way to deal with stress.  The Bible says in Proverbs 18:10

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe.  Prov. 18:10

If you are under stress and strain, if you are in the midst of some trials and troubles you need to turn to the Lord.  Seek His help.  He does so much more for us than oatmeal cookies.  He gives us comfort that lasts, grace that is sufficient and strength that sustains us for the situation at hand.  And what He provides does not add points to the cholesterol or the bathroom scale.  Our God is a good and gracious God.  He knows how to comfort His children.