Why are you on this journey? You may have short-term motivations, like losing weight for a wedding or a reunion. These motivations are a good start, but they stop after you reach your short-term goal. More effective whys are eternal and based in your relationship to God. In this episode of Phoenix Chronicles, Jes and Martin discuss their whys – how they found them, how they shifted over time, and how they reached their eternal whys.

Learn how you can find and stick to your why, and how Isaiah 43:19 tells us that God will give us a way out.

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[1:04] This episode is all about Martin and Jes’s “why” for losing weight. Martin’s motivation goes back to his diabetes diagnosis. He knew that not properly managing his diabetes could kill him. His “why” has since shifted to be more eternal.

[4:22] Short-term whys have the drawback of not motivating you past your short-term goal. Once you hit your goal, you will feel like you can relax and celebrate by going back to the habits that got you to where you were.

[6:58] Now, Martin feels called to continue to lose weight and to help others do so. This motivation is eternal and not based in fear.

[11:54] Jes’s why started as a more surface-level desire to fit into smaller clothes, and later became wanting to not feel restricted in her body. Now, she wants to set a good example for her son.

[15:24] Jes also realized that her struggle was about obedience to God. Martin points out that obedience is not perfection.

[19:14] Only after starting this program and worshipping daily has Martin felt that he is obedient to God. He has also become a better husband, father, and man because of his transformation.

[21:06] How do you cement your why? You can start by writing it down. This can help you get your emotions in tune with your desires and internalize your goals.

[25:48] If you are struggling to find your why, make a list of the things that are important to you. You can also ask God to help you find your why.

[28:13] In Isaiah 43:19, God says “See, I am doing new things! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” By making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland, God provides a path for us out of our struggles.

RESOURCES

Visit the Phoenix Chronicles Website: https://www.thephoenixchronicles.com/

Buy A Phoenix Chronicle by Martin Crowe: https://www.thephoenixchronicles.com/book