In 2006, I made the decision to have weight loss surgery. It was not a decision I took lightly, but after much research, thought and prayer.

I am often asked about making such a life-changing decision. How do we make the right choice?

While considering whether or not to have weight loss surgery, I researched. I prayed, a lot. I waited, and listened for guidance in making the right choice. But, even so, I didn’t have a clear and certain answer that gastric bypass was the “right path” for me. But one thing was certain: I did believe that whatever my choice, I had expressed to God my faith in His promise to bring restoration to my life. So, I stepped out in faith that God would see me though to success.

It reminds me of a story in the Bible. As a child, it was my favorite—and still is. It’s the story of Jairus and his daughter. The story tells us that Jairus’ daughter has just died. As Jairus stands face to face with Jesus, he expresses his faith with an invitation—an invitation to “come.” His invitation expresses his certainty that if Jesus “comes,” life will return.

As Jarius starts his journey home, what happens next is something unexpected. Matthew 9:19 says, “And Jesus arose, and followed him….” 

Making the decision to have surgery is difficult, and from our current view our outcome is uncertain. In prayer, we can extend to God an invitation to “come.” We then, step out on the certainty that He has our best interest at heart. His heart is to bring healing and restoration. Then, whatever decision we choose, we can put our faith in the fact that He not only leads, guides, and prepares the path ahead of us, but He also follows on the heels of our faith. 

Jesus did arise and "come." And with him came resurrection of life to Jairus’ daughter—and for me, too! On Easter Monday, April 17, 2006, God redeemed my circumstances, I received my health and my life back. It was my personal resurrection day. This year, I celebrate 12 years of weight loss surgery success. 

you can read the full story in Matthew 9:18-34