Rachel first became interested in The Daniel Plan in January of 2014, following a period of postpartum depression. Her energy was at an all time low and she felt hopeless. Rachel’s story is one of renewal—regaining her energy, strengthening her faith in God, and acquiring a new sense of direction, purpose, and confidence.
Unexpected Despair
In the fall of 2013, after the birth of my daughter, I returned to my job teaching. At that time I became very anxious and depressed, withdrew from my family, had difficulty working, and started eating out of the desire for comfort. I felt like a failure. I was diagnosed with postpartum depression and prescribed anti-depressants. The medication helped with my depression, but I still had a complete lack of energy. I would spend hours and hours curled up on my couch or sleeping in bed.
I began to feel God telling me that I needed to turn to Him and to change my lifestyle. This led me to search the web for health books. The Daniel Plan book had just been released and was a best seller. I felt like God led me directly to it! I downloaded the book and began reading it that same evening. I was amazed! I felt as if the book had been written just for me!
Leaning In and Listening Close
Over the next few weeks, I did the research, prepared my house for our lifestyle change, and began to follow the plan. God was there with me through all the challenges. We stopped ordering food from restaurants and fast food chains, and began cooking in our kitchen. Now preparing food is just a part of my life and even my husband enjoys cooking. We are still occasionally tempted to revert to our old ways, but during these times I pray to God and listen to what He tells me to do. He takes care of the rest. My faith is stronger than ever. God has been with me every day I struggle, every day I have a huge success, and every day in between. I know more than ever that with Him all things really are possible!
