Hi all..I was banded a couple of weeks ago and am struggling quite a bit..

I am fighting believing lies...I know that God gave this to me as a tool...

I just have so much self doubt and feelings of guilt. (Guilty that I couldn't let go of my sin and required surgical intervention).

I really want God to be glorified in this and allow Him to use this in my life.

I am also still in a fair amount of pain (at the port site)- I read so many other experiences and thought I would be feeling really good by now...

so, yes I am a bit discouraged about that too...

I would love to find another Christian to share this journey with that I can pray with and for...

Peace, Erika

Hugs and Prayers for you Erika!!

You must give yourself this first month as a time to heal. My port site was very sore for a long time. A lot of what you are probably feeling is the tugging of the muscle getting used to the stitches holding it in place. Definitely uncomfortable, even can be quite a bit painful depending on how you move.

I think most people start to question why I couldn't have just done this on my own. I know this is a gift from God!! I know that I could not have lost this weight without this special gift and WITH God's help along the way.

This thread especially and this site are truly a blessing! The information, support and encouragement we can get here is priceless. Anytime you get down, or confused, or mad, or anything - get on here, post it, question, rant, cry - whatever you need to help you get through it!!

We are all here for you!

Gen

Erika,

My prayers are for you. I was banded on 4/11 and though I had a good idea of what to expect the pain inthe port area is more then I thought it would be. As to the other I find it interesting that this seems to be the one area that christians think can be handled by prayer and strenght alone. We don't ask people with depression to give up their meds or people with other illness to not go to doctors and be treated. I do believe God expects us to rely on him to help us to overcome the head games we play with ourselves. The devil uses many guies to convince us that what we are doing is not God's will. If you prayed about this and trully felt it was okay then I believe it is. If God really didn't want you have this surgery he certianly could have put many obstacles in your way. I know he did mine and then everything just flew together so fast I believe only God could have done it. Don't let your guilt be another barrier between you and God.

I know things will improve with time and you just need to keep praying and seeking what God has for you.

Thanks Gen and "losing it"...Yes, God did in fact open the doors for this...my insurance paid for most of it, and it happened really quick...

Good point about how Christians (myself included) have thought that

obesity is different that other issues....

Honestly, I think I just have been cooped up in the house too long..

(my DD is almost 2 and it's hard to get her into the car alone)...

It's tough for me to just "take it easy" to heal when I see so much around me that needs to be done...I like to be the helper..not the one that needs help....

Thanks again...you two are 100% correct...

We don't ask people with depression to give up their meds

Unfortunately, there are a lot of Christians who believe depression is a sin as well, that if we really had a thankful heart and trusted in God we wouldn't need antidepressants. No doubt they are people who have never struggled with it themselves!!

I choose to view the band as a tool, nothing more nothing less. God uses available tools to help - like that silly story about the person stuck on the roof in a flood praying for God to save him and refusing the help of the helicopter, boat, etc. We turn to God in trust that if we use the tools at our disposal - unless there is something inherintly unethical about the tool -- that we are not offending Him.

It's still going to take work to lose the weight. Choosing to eat healthy foods. Choosing to exercise. Choosing to not turn to food in emotional crises.

Our pastor is giving a sermon series on Questions God Asks. He pointed out that when our own kids misbehave, sometimes we can't help ourselves -- we ask them "Why did you do that?!?!" But God never asks us that, and God does not condemn us and push us away -- He says instead "Where are you?" and "I'd rather die than lose you."

Please don't feel guilty for doing what you need to to get your health under control. We honor God when we care for our bodies, and if we need help to do so then we need help.

Erika, I will be remembering you too in my prayers. You're not alone here. I myself have to fight the devil's attacks on a daily matter. It's him who gives us our doubts, discouragement and the desire for that "bad" food when we're down. ANYTHING he sees as a weak spot in our faith and distrust in God, he will use. He attacks us Christians more than unbelievers because he already knows the Lord is above him and he will never be. I knew he would attack my spiritual walk with my Lord, but never realized until lately that he's been using my weight for most of it!!!

God will prevail, won't He!!! PTL!!!!!!!

Hi all..I was banded a couple of weeks ago and am struggling quite a bit..

I am fighting believing lies...I know that God gave this to me as a tool...

I just have so much self doubt and feelings of guilt. (Guilty that I couldn't let go of my sin and required surgical intervention).

I really want God to be glorified in this and allow Him to use this in my life.

I am also still in a fair amount of pain (at the port site)- I read so many other experiences and thought I would be feeling really good by now...

so, yes I am a bit discouraged about that too...

I would love to find another Christian to share this journey with that I can pray with and for...

Peace, Erika

Hi Erika, My name is Vicki. I was banded a little over 7 weeks ago. As of today I have lost 18 1/2 lbs. since surgery, 28 since post-op. This journey is hard , physically and emotionally. From the beginning I put it all in God's hands. Everything went well, some small problems but such is life. When I got the call from the surgeon's office that I was approved, I knew it was God's will. My port hurt for quite a long time as well, and it hurt especially after my first fill so be patient with that. Follow Dr's orders on your diet and don't over eat. I have a beloved Bible Study group that has supported me through this, and a family that is happy to see a healthier Mom as well. But I also would love to have a Christian friend that has gone through the struggles with food addiction and it's grip on our lives. Our bodies are sacred temples of the Holy Spirit right, God will not allow anything to happen to us that we can't handle right, we are called to be witnesse's of our Heavenly Father and to honor Him right, but how can we do any of that when we have the burden of sin on our physical well being? All good questions that require soul searching mixed with alot of prayer. This isn't an easy journey but I believe one that is worth it, and honorable to Him. Write anytime, I'll be here if you like. Your sister in Christ.....

Hi Miss Vicki...thank you. I am doing better, only 5 more days until solids!!! I can hardly wait..I am tired of cottage cheese and yogurt..

It was almost suicide tonight, I made spaghetti, garlic bread, and salad for my husband and kids..

My insurance covered this so quickly for me and my Dr was able to get me in w/perfect timing..I know this is a gift from God to help me conquer this battle once and for all....

Today I read in Psalms..."Be still and know that I am God." I have read this SO many times before, but right now it really has new meaning to me...I look forward to hearing from you!!

Erika

Hi Miss Vicki...thank you. I am doing better, only 5 more days until solids!!! I can hardly wait..I am tired of cottage cheese and yogurt..

It was almost suicide tonight, I made spaghetti, garlic bread, and salad for my husband and kids..

My insurance covered this so quickly for me and my Dr was able to get me in w/perfect timing..I know this is a gift from God to help me conquer this battle once and for all....

Today I read in Psalms..."Be still and know that I am God." I have read this SO many times before, but right now it really has new meaning to me...I look forward to hearing from you!!

Erika

Hi Erika, So nice to hear back from you. Solids will be in your future again, just hold on! One of the best things fo me to start eating was salmon in the can. Chicken of the Sea makes little individual servings, that are about 3 ozs. each. I would cut up a hard boiled egg, and use some low fat mayo. and seasonings, umm nummy!! Also applesauce and chicken go down easily as well. Just chew, chew, chew. As of today I am down 31 lbs.!!! On Monday I have my 2nd. Dr's. appt. I hope he gives me another fill. The hunger has subsided a bit but I still feel like I can eat more than I want, still waiting to hit that "sweet spot". This has definitely been a rewarding, life changing experience. I feel like I am sort of getting it and learning to eat to live, not live to eat. I don't know how people would do this without the Lord in their lives. He is such a firm foundation. His unconditional love has helped me so often, and His exceptamce of me just the way I am. Every day I know that what I have done is pleasing to Him and honoring as well. I am becoming a healthier daughter and better in all things. My favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11, " For I know the plans I have for you ", says the Lord, " Plans for welfare, and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." I rest in that often... God Bless you Erika and I hope to hear from you soon, Vicki

I am with you!!! But God knows whats best. I too am asking God for help!!! I know he has put this in my path. I have sleep apnea, high bp, diabetes and glucoma. So this is far more that a look good thing. I prayed and God answered me. However, with most things I give it to God and take it back. WHen the radiologist said I had a hernia I thought that will be the end of my surgery and God has said no. I called the doctor and he still didn't give me a yes. He said he has to see how big it is!!! I am asking all saints to pray with and for me. I am scheduled for my surgery on 5/8. Starting the protein shakes today. Feeling scared about it. If anyone has encouraging word please help. Thanks:cursing::hurt::wub::redface:

Miss Vicki, you're words are so true and encouraging!! Our Lord is our strength and our hope. I have the same calm, assurance as you do and reading what you said, that's exactly where my trust will lie after I'm banded next month on the 7th!! God bless you!!!!!!!!!!

Brenda...I will be praying for you!!! May the Prince of Peace give you overwhelming comfort and peace as you move forward...

Pincham- how are the shakes going?? I have been on full liquids since being banded..it's been tough..esp. since I have a young family that I am preparing dinner for...but God is good and has been giving me daily strength...keep following what your doctor says and you will do fine!!!

Vicki- that is one of my favorite verses too!! I was reading it the other day....we need to seek Him w/our whole heart...allow Him to meet our needs, not food...trust and obey, there is no other way!!!

May God give us all peace and joy as we seek to be obediant to His perfect will....Thank you Lord for giving us this tool so we can be free!!!

Erika

Hello! I am so glad that I found this thread! PTL!

My name is Carey, and I am a stay at home mom to three great kids, and a fabulous husband. I have been battling a weight problem for the last 11 years (started with ppdepression after I had my daughter).

For the last year I have been struggling with the idea of getting the band. Last August I went through all the tests and had a September date set, and then a week before the surgery I backed out.

I have a lot of unsaved people in my life, and some who are saved and battling their own addictions. I felt that I had this HUGE problem that if I could just move myself out of the way and let God handle it, then what a testimony it would be for the Lord. Maybe some of my loved ones would get saved!

1 Cor 10:13 says "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."

In my mind I felt that I would be sinning if I chose a different path (ie. lapband), never considering that the band might be my way out. I was so afraid that in my hugest accomplishment I wouldn't be a witness for the Lord, because when I do lose my weight, others are going to ask me how I did it and then when I say "lap band" they will shut down and all talk of God will mean nothing to them.

My friend/mentor told me flat out that I was being silly! That maybe this was my way out and remember Luke 16:31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’” Just because I give credit to God, doesn't mean they will turn to Him. People see God's divinity all the time, and they still don't believe. But she said that maybe MY walk with the Lord was what is most important right now.

And the scripture that keeps coming to mind is Mark 9:43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand than to go into the unquenchable fires of hell[i] with two hands.[j] 45 If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one foot than to be thrown into hell with two feet.[k] 47 And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out. It’s better to enter the Kingdom of God with only one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, 48 ‘where the maggots never die and the fire never goes out.’

I have to stop sinning, and I won't do it on my own. So I can't keep beating myself up for needing the band. Just like it would be better to pluck out your eye, or cut off your had, maybe it is better to band my stomache.

So, I gave it up to the Lord, and I called my surgeon back, and I am scheduled for the 29th. Although they could have gotten me in as soon as the 14!:wink2: I am giving it to God and if He doesn't want me to do this then like you said, He will put roadblocks in my path. But so far, I got my date, my stuff is done, and my ins has 100% approved and covered my surgery.

But I am still scared to death.

Thanks again for this thread and saying what you said. You made me feel so much better about my decision and now I know Satan is tormenting others with the same lie he has tormented me with for the last year and a half. God CAN get the glory even if I have the band.

God bless you all! Sorry for the long post, but I apprently needed to unburden! Thanks again!

Carey

Hello! I am so glad that I found this thread! PTL!

My name is Carey, and I am a stay at home mom to three great kids, and a fabulous husband. I have been battling a weight problem for the last 11 years (started with ppdepression after I had my daughter).

For the last year I have been struggling with the idea of getting the band. Last August I went through all the tests and had a September date set, and then a week before the surgery I backed out.

I have a lot of unsaved people in my life, and some who are saved and battling their own addictions. I felt that I had this HUGE problem that if I could just move myself out of the way and let God handle it, then what a testimony it would be for the Lord. Maybe some of my loved ones would get saved!

1 Cor 10:13 says "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."

In my mind I felt that I would be sinning if I chose a different path (ie. lapband), never considering that the band might be my way out. I was so afraid that in my hugest accomplishment I wouldn't be a witness for the Lord, because when I do lose my weight, others are going to ask me how I did it and then when I say "lap band" they will shut down and all talk of God will mean nothing to them.

My friend/mentor told me flat out that I was being silly! That maybe this was my way out and remember Luke 16:31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’” Just because I give credit to God, doesn't mean they will turn to Him. People see God's divinity all the time, and they still don't believe. But she said that maybe MY walk with the Lord was what is most important right now.

And the scripture that keeps coming to mind is Mark 9:43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand than to go into the unquenchable fires of hell[i] with two hands.[j] 45 If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one foot than to be thrown into hell with two feet.[k] 47 And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out. It’s better to enter the Kingdom of God with only one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into hell, 48 ‘where the maggots never die and the fire never goes out.’

I have to stop sinning, and I won't do it on my own. So I can't keep beating myself up for needing the band. Just like it would be better to pluck out your eye, or cut off your had, maybe it is better to band my stomache.

So, I gave it up to the Lord, and I called my surgeon back, and I am scheduled for the 29th. Although they could have gotten me in as soon as the 14!:wink2: I am giving it to God and if He doesn't want me to do this then like you said, He will put roadblocks in my path. But so far, I got my date, my stuff is done, and my ins has 100% approved and covered my surgery.

But I am still scared to death.

Thanks again for this thread and saying what you said. You made me feel so much better about my decision and now I know Satan is tormenting others with the same lie he has tormented me with for the last year and a half. God CAN get the glory even if I have the band.

God bless you all! Sorry for the long post, but I apprently needed to unburden! Thanks again!

Carey

Carey, Thank you so much for your message. I too struggled a bit with God's approval of my surgery but every step of the way I felt His hand on the situation. We MUST remember that these tools given to us by man to help our weight loss goals, are tools given to that man by God. EVERYTHING is God's and everything that happens is according to His plan. You are right Satan has a way of deceiving and telling us, it's wrong, your faith isn't strong enough. If you believed God would take the weight away, right?... WRONG, God wants us healthy and wants us to do what we can with what we have. He knows you love Him and care what He thinks and that's all you need. I know you are scared, we all are and were, but have faith Carey, your Father won't let you down, OK!?.......

Miss Vicki, you're words are so true and encouraging!! Our Lord is our strength and our hope. I have the same calm, assurance as you do and reading what you said, that's exactly where my trust will lie after I'm banded next month on the 7th!! God bless you!!!!!!!!!!

God bless you too Brenda, how did your banding go? Let me know about your progress. We are all in this together!!

Huge HUGS Carey!!!

I pray that God's peace will come over you as you prepare for your surgery. This band has been one of the biggest blessings I have received. My whole life has changed!!

God Bless you!

Gen (wombat)

PS - MissVicki - you have such a way with words. You are most definitely a blessing on here!