Bonnie Smith
Soul Longings

I love this scripture that my sweet friend shared with me yesterday, as she was sharing more of her testimony with me about her journey through God healing her from an eating disorder and losing almost 200 lbs. “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11 Self-discipline is the foundation to overcoming any stronghold that has imprisoned you. However, self-discipline, the kind that breaks chains, can only come from God. You cannot let go of a stronghold without replacing it with something. A void, or deep need, within us is what causes us to become trapped in negative destructive behaviors. So simply trying to stop, you just leave you with the void and longing that can lead you to another form of addiction or negative behavior. However, when you take that deep need to God, He will satisfy your soul in ways nothing else could. If you’re looking to overcome something that has enslaved you, go to God with the following prayer that has guided me daily as my flesh begins tugging at me to look for fulfillment somewhere other than God. “Dear Lord, satisfy all your longings and fill all the hollow places in my heart and soul with your lavish and unfailing love!