Introduction: Seven Gifts, Complete Equipping

When Paul wrote to the Romans about spiritual gifts, he listed seven distinct gifts that together equip the Body of Christ for complete ministry. These seven gifts aren’t random – they form God’s perfect pattern for how believers serve one another and navigate life’s challenges, including chronic illness like diabetes.

The Seven Gifts Explained

1. Prophecy (Romans 12:6) – The gift of prophecy is speaking God’s truth into situations. For those with diabetes, this might mean having the courage to speak truth to yourself about your health choices, or prophetically declaring God’s promises over your body when fear tries to take hold. It’s the ability to see your diabetes through God’s eyes, not the world’s fear-based perspective.

2. Serving (Romans 12:7) – Even while managing diabetes, you can serve others. In fact, your experience with chronic illness uniquely equips you to serve others who are suffering. The gift of serving reminds us that diabetes doesn’t disqualify us from ministry – it qualifies us to minister to a specific community that desperately needs encouragement.

3. Teaching (Romans 12:7) – If you’ve learned to manage diabetes well, you have wisdom to teach others. This gift manifests in mentoring newly diagnosed individuals, leading support groups, or simply sharing what you’ve learned about nutrition, exercise, and faith with others in your church or community.

4. Encouraging (Romans 12:8) – This is perhaps the most needed gift in the diabetes community. The gift of encouragement means coming alongside others on difficult days, reminding them of God’s faithfulness when their blood sugar won’t cooperate, and celebrating small victories. You know how much you need encouragement – use that knowledge to encourage others.

5. Giving (Romans 12:8) – Even with the financial burden of diabetes supplies, you can exercise the gift of giving. This might mean sharing extra supplies with someone in need, contributing to diabetes research, or financially supporting faith-based diabetes ministries. Generous giving breaks the spirit of scarcity that chronic illness can create.

6. Leading (Romans 12:8) – Leadership with diabetes looks like taking initiative in your own health care, starting a diabetes support group at your church, or organizing walking groups for exercise. It’s showing others that diabetes doesn’t mean passivity – it means taking active leadership of your health in partnership with God.

7. Showing Mercy (Romans 12:8) – Show mercy to yourself when you make mistakes in diabetes management. Show mercy to others who don’t understand what living with diabetes is like. The gift of mercy creates space for grace, forgiveness, and compassion – all essential for the long journey of chronic illness management.

How These Seven Work Together

Notice that all seven gifts are needed for complete ministry. You might have one or two primary gifts, but the Body of Christ collectively possesses all seven. This is why community is so vital in your diabetes journey – you need others who have gifts you don’t have, and they need your gifts too.

When you’re struggling with the teaching gift (learning about nutrition and diabetes management), someone with that gift can help you. When someone else is discouraged, your gift of encouragement lifts them up. The seven gifts create a complete support system when the Body functions as God designed.

Practical Application

This Week’s Challenge: Identify which of the seven gifts you most naturally express. Then, intentionally use that gift to bless someone else in the diabetes community. If you have the gift of encouragement, send three encouraging messages to people managing diabetes. If you have the gift of teaching, share one practical tip you’ve learned. If you have the gift of giving, donate supplies or money to help someone in need.

Remember: God gave you these gifts not despite your diabetes, but perhaps through it. Your experience uniquely positions you to use your gifts in ways that bless others walking the same path.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” – Romans 12:6

The Story: A Proud Man and a Simple Command

Naaman was a successful military commander with a devastating problem: leprosy. When he finally humbled himself to seek healing from the prophet Elisha, he expected something dramatic – perhaps a grand ceremony or elaborate ritual. Instead, Elisha sent a messenger with simple instructions: “Go, wash yourself seven times in the Jordan, and your flesh will be restored and you will be cleansed” (2 Kings 5:10).

Naaman was furious. The Jordan River was muddy and unimpressive compared to the clear rivers of his homeland. The instruction seemed too simple, too ordinary, too beneath him. He almost left without healing because the prescription didn’t match his expectations.

The Temptation to Stop at Six

Here’s what the text doesn’t explicitly say, but what we can imagine: What if Naaman had stopped after six dips? He would have been so close to healing – just one dip away – but still carrying his leprosy. Six dips brought him no benefit. Only the seventh dip completed what God commanded and brought the healing.

This is profoundly relevant to diabetes management. How many times have you done well for six days and then gave up on the seventh? How many weeks have you tested consistently for six days and skipped the seventh? How many times have you taken five of your six daily medications but skipped one?

Why Incomplete Obedience Fails

1. God’s Commands Come with Complete Requirements
God didn’t say “dip six or seven times, whatever works for you.” He said seven. The number mattered because seven represents completion. Partial obedience is not obedience – it’s rebellion with better PR.

2. The Benefits Come at Completion
Naaman saw no improvement after dip one, two, three, four, five, or six. Only at seven was “his flesh restored like that of a young boy and he was cleansed” (2 Kings 5:14). Similarly, managing diabetes well six days a week but binging on the seventh undermines all your efforts. The benefits require consistency through completion.

3. Pride Often Stops Us One Step Short
Naaman’s pride almost cost him everything. He thought the command was beneath him, too simple, not impressive enough. How often does pride sabotage your diabetes management? “I don’t need to test today, I feel fine.” “I can skip my medication just this once.” “I know my body better than the doctor.” Pride whispers that you can get the results without complete obedience.

Application to Diabetes Management

Testing Consistently: If your doctor says test seven times per day, don’t stop at six. If you’re supposed to test before every meal, don’t skip the dinner test because you’re tired. Complete obedience brings complete information for complete management.

Medication Adherence: Taking your medications six days a week isn’t “pretty good” – it’s incomplete obedience that can lead to poor outcomes. Naaman needed all seven dips. You need all seven days of medication.

Lifestyle Changes: Eating well six days and destroying your progress on the seventh is like Naaman stopping at six dips. The pattern must be complete for the transformation to occur.

Follow-Up Appointments: Seeing your endocrinologist for six months and then skipping the seventh visit because you’re “doing fine” is incomplete obedience. The seven appointments your doctor recommends each year aren’t arbitrary – they’re your seven dips in the Jordan.

The Servants’ Wisdom

Notice who saved Naaman: his servants. They said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!” (2 Kings 5:13).

Sometimes we’re willing to do something dramatic for our health – an extreme diet, an expensive treatment, a radical procedure – but we resist the simple daily disciplines. We’ll do the “great thing” but balk at the simple thing: test regularly, take meds daily, walk consistently, sleep adequately, eat balanced meals.

Who are the “servants” in your life speaking wisdom? Your doctor? Your diabetes educator? Your spouse? Your accountability partner? Don’t let pride keep you from listening to their wisdom.

The Result: Complete Healing

When Naaman completed all seven dips, the text says his “flesh was restored like that of a young boy.” Complete obedience brought complete restoration. Will complete obedience in diabetes management bring complete healing? Perhaps not in this lifetime – but it will bring the best possible health outcomes, the greatest quality of life, and the knowledge that you’ve honored God with faithful stewardship of your body.

This Week’s Challenge: Identify one area where you’ve been stopping at “six dips” – doing well most of the time but not completing the full pattern. Commit to complete obedience in that one area for seven days. See what God does when you trust Him enough to complete what He’s asked.

“So he went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him, and his flesh was restored and became clean like that of a young boy.” – 2 Kings 5:14

When Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science

The foods mentioned in Scripture weren’t just sustenance – they were divine provision designed for human flourishing. Remarkably, modern nutritional science confirms that many biblical foods are exactly what people with diabetes need to stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health.

Let’s explore seven biblical foods that should be staples in your diabetes management plan, and discover why God’s provision is always perfect.

1. Barley – The Humble Grain of Provision

Biblical Reference: 2 Kings 4:42-44 (feeding of 100 with barley loaves); John 6:9 (boy’s five barley loaves)

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: Barley has one of the lowest glycemic index ratings of any grain (around 28 compared to white bread at 75). It’s packed with soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which slows digestion and prevents blood sugar spikes. Studies show that eating barley can reduce blood sugar levels for up to 10 hours.

How to Use It: Substitute barley for rice in soups and stews. Use barley flour in baking. Make a morning barley porridge instead of oatmeal. The ancient Israelites knew what they were doing when barley was a dietary staple.

2. Lentils – The Food That Saved a Kingdom

Biblical Reference: Genesis 25:34 (Esau’s lentil stew); 2 Samuel 17:28 (provisions for David)

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: Lentils are extraordinarily high in fiber and protein while being low on the glycemic index (around 32). They contain resistant starch that feeds healthy gut bacteria, which is linked to better blood sugar control. One study showed that eating lentils can lower post-meal blood sugar by up to 35%.

How to Use It: Make biblical-style lentil stew with vegetables and herbs. Add cooked lentils to salads. Use lentils as a base for veggie burgers. Puree them into soups for added thickness and nutrition.

3. Olive Oil – Liquid Gold

Biblical Reference: Deuteronomy 8:8 (land flowing with oil); Luke 10:34 (Good Samaritan used oil); James 5:14 (anointing oil)

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. Research shows that diets high in olive oil can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by up to 50% and help control blood sugar in those already diagnosed.

How to Use It: Drizzle on vegetables and salads. Use for low-heat cooking (high heat damages its beneficial compounds). Dip whole grain bread in olive oil instead of using butter. The Mediterranean diet, centered on olive oil, is one of the best dietary patterns for diabetes management.

4. Figs – Nature’s Sweet Medicine

Biblical Reference: Deuteronomy 8:8; Jeremiah 24:2; Luke 13:6-9 (fig tree parable)

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: While figs do contain natural sugars, they’re also packed with fiber that slows sugar absorption. They contain compounds that may help reduce the amount of sugar absorbed after a meal. Fresh figs have a moderate glycemic index, and they’re rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure – crucial for people with diabetes.

How to Use It: Eat fresh figs in moderation (1-2 at a time) paired with protein or healthy fat. Avoid dried figs as they’re more concentrated in sugar. Add fresh figs to salads or pair with cheese for a balanced snack. Remember: portion control is key with all fruits.

5. Pomegranates – The Jeweled Fruit

Biblical Reference: Exodus 28:33-34 (on priestly garments); Deuteronomy 8:8; Song of Solomon 4:3

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants called punicalagins and punicic acid, which have been shown to reduce insulin resistance and decrease oxidative stress in people with diabetes. Studies suggest pomegranate juice may lower fasting blood sugar levels and reduce cardiovascular risk factors.

How to Use It: Eat fresh pomegranate arils (the juicy seeds) as a snack or salad topping. If drinking pomegranate juice, limit to 4 ounces and pair with a meal to minimize blood sugar impact. Better yet, eat the whole fruit to get the fiber benefit.

6. Almonds – The Oil of Joy

Biblical Reference: Genesis 43:11 (among choice gifts); Numbers 17:8 (Aaron’s rod that budded almonds); Ecclesiastes 12:5 (almond tree blossoms)

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: Almonds are a diabetes superfood – high in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and magnesium (which many people with diabetes are deficient in). Studies show that eating almonds with meals can significantly reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes and improve long-term blood sugar control (HbA1c).

How to Use It: Eat a small handful (about 23 almonds or 1 ounce) as a snack. Add sliced almonds to salads and vegetables. Use almond butter on whole grain bread or celery. Make almond milk as a low-carb alternative to cow’s milk.

7. Cinnamon – The Spice of Life

Biblical Reference: Exodus 30:23 (holy anointing oil); Proverbs 7:17 (perfuming a bed); Song of Solomon 4:14 (among precious spices)

Why It’s Perfect for Diabetes: Multiple studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugar levels by up to 29%. It appears to mimic insulin and increase glucose transport into cells. Cinnamon also slows the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract and improves insulin sensitivity.

How to Use It: Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon daily to coffee, tea, or smoothies. Sprinkle on oatmeal, yogurt, or fruit. Use in cooking savory dishes (it’s common in Middle Eastern cuisine). Make cinnamon water by steeping cinnamon sticks overnight. Note: Use Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon) rather than Cassia cinnamon for daily use, as Cassia contains higher levels of coumarin.

The Pattern: Seven for Complete Nutrition

Notice that these seven biblical foods cover all the major food groups you need for diabetes management:

• Whole grains: Barley
• Legumes: Lentils
• Healthy fats: Olive oil, Almonds
• Fruits: Figs, Pomegranates
• Spices: Cinnamon

Together, these seven provide complete nutrition: fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and support overall health.

Practical 7-Day Challenge

This week, incorporate one of these biblical foods into your diet each day:

• Monday: Make barley soup or substitute barley for rice
• Tuesday: Prepare lentil stew or add lentils to a salad
• Wednesday: Use olive oil on your vegetables and salad
• Thursday: Enjoy fresh figs (1-2) with cheese or nuts
• Friday: Add pomegranate arils to your breakfast or lunch
• Saturday: Snack on almonds or add them to a meal
• Sunday: Add cinnamon to your morning beverage or oatmeal

Monitor your blood sugar throughout the week and notice how these ancient foods affect your modern condition. You may be surprised at how well your body responds to the foods God provided thousands of years ago.

“The land of wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing.” – Deuteronomy 8:8-9

The Weight of Diabetes Guilt

If you’ve lived with diabetes for any length of time, you know the guilt. The guilt when your A1C is higher than your doctor hoped. The guilt when you ate something you “shouldn’t have.” The guilt when you forgot to test, skipped your medication, or didn’t exercise like you planned. The guilt when you see complications developing and wonder, “Is this my fault? Could I have prevented this?”

Diabetes guilt is relentless. It whispers that you’re not doing enough, that you’re failing, that your imperfect management makes you a bad person, that if only you tried harder or cared more, everything would be better.

But there are three words that silence that guilt forever: It is finished.

The Seventh Word: Complete Redemption

When Jesus spoke His sixth statement from the cross – “It is finished” (John 19:30) – He used the Greek word tetelestai. This wasn’t a cry of defeat; it was a shout of victory. The word was used in ancient times to mean “paid in full” – the debt is completely satisfied, nothing more is owed.

In the context of redemption, “It is finished” means the work of salvation is complete. Fully complete. Perfectly complete. Nothing left to do. No more sacrifices needed. No more striving required. The debt of sin is paid in full.

And here’s the revolutionary truth for those living with diabetes: This completeness applies to every aspect of your identity and worth before God.

What “It Is Finished” Means for Diabetes Guilt

1. Your Worth Is Not Determined by Your A1C

The number on your lab report does not define you. You are not “a good diabetic” when your A1C is 6.5 and “a bad diabetic” when it’s 8.5. Your worth before God was settled at the cross, and it has nothing to do with your blood sugar management.

Christ’s work is finished. Your acceptance before God is complete. You don’t earn more of His love with a perfect A1C, and you don’t lose His love with a high one. The work that makes you acceptable to God is already complete.

2. Mistakes Don’t Define Your Journey

You ate the cake at the party. You forgot to take your evening medication. You went three days without testing because life got overwhelming. These mistakes are real, and they may have consequences for your health – but they don’t change your standing before God.

“It is finished” means God isn’t keeping a tally of your diabetes management failures. He’s not waiting for you to achieve a certain standard before He fully accepts you. The standard was already met by Christ. The work is finished. You’re free to manage your diabetes from a place of grace, not guilt.

3. Complications Aren’t Necessarily Punishment

This is crucial: diabetes complications are not divine punishment for imperfect management. We live in a fallen world where bodies break down, even when we do everything “right.” Job was blameless and yet suffered. Paul had a “thorn in the flesh” that God chose not to remove.

Yes, good diabetes management can reduce the risk of complications. But complications can still occur even with excellent management, and not having complications doesn’t make you more righteous than someone who does. “It is finished” means God’s love for you isn’t conditional on your health outcomes.

The Danger of Earning-Based Thinking

The enemy loves to keep Christians trapped in performance-based relationship with God. He whispers:

• “If you really had faith, you’d manage your diabetes better.”
• “God is disappointed in your lack of self-control.”
• “If you were a better Christian, maybe you wouldn’t have gotten diabetes in the first place.”
• “Your complications prove you didn’t try hard enough.”

These are lies designed to keep you in shame. They deny the finished work of Christ. They suggest that Jesus’ sacrifice wasn’t quite enough, that you need to add your perfect diabetes management to complete the work of redemption. That’s heresy.

“It is finished” means exactly that – finished. Complete. Perfect. Done. Nothing you do or don’t do with your diabetes management can add to or subtract from the completed work of Christ.

Managing Diabetes from Grace, Not Guilt

Understanding that “it is finished” doesn’t mean diabetes management doesn’t matter. It means your motivation changes completely:

Instead of managing diabetes to earn God’s approval…
You manage diabetes because you’re already fully approved, and you want to steward the body He’s given you.

Instead of perfect management to avoid shame…
You aim for good management because you’re free from shame and living in gratitude.

Instead of fearing God’s disappointment when you fail…
You learn from mistakes without condemnation, knowing God’s love is unchanging.

Grace-based diabetes management is actually more sustainable than guilt-based management. Guilt eventually leads to either burnout (giving up because you can never be “good enough”) or pride (judging others who don’t manage as well as you). Grace leads to steady, compassionate, long-term stewardship.

Practical Steps to Release Diabetes Guilt

1. Daily Reminder
Each morning before you test your blood sugar, say aloud: “It is finished. My worth is secure in Christ, regardless of this number.” Then test. The number is information, not identity.

2. Reframe Self-Talk
Replace guilt-based thoughts with grace-based truth:

• Guilt: “I’m such a failure for eating that.” → Grace: “That wasn’t my best choice, but God’s love for me hasn’t changed. What can I learn from this?”
• Guilt: “I’m a terrible diabetic.” → Grace: “I’m a beloved child of God learning to manage a chronic condition. Progress, not perfection.”
• Guilt: “God must be so disappointed in me.” → Grace: “Christ’s work is finished. God delights in me as His child, not in my management statistics.”

3. Confession Without Condemnation
When you do fail in diabetes management, confess it honestly to God – but don’t wallow in it. “Lord, I didn’t manage well today. Thank You that Your grace covers this. Help me make better choices tomorrow. Your work is finished, and I am secure in You.” Then move forward.

4. Celebrate Progress
God celebrates your progress even when it’s imperfect. Did you test five days this week instead of three? Celebrate! Did you take your medication consistently for a month? Praise God! Did you choose a salad over fries? That’s growth! Grace notices and celebrates progress, while guilt only focuses on what’s still lacking.

When Others Impose Guilt

Sometimes the guilt comes not from within but from well-meaning (or not-so-well-meaning) others:

• “If you just had more faith, you’d be healed.”
• “You wouldn’t have diabetes if you hadn’t eaten so much sugar.”
• “My cousin’s friend did keto and was cured. Why don’t you try harder?”

Stand firm in the truth: “It is finished.” You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your health condition or management choices. Christ’s approval is all that matters, and that approval is already yours, completely and forever.

The Freedom to Care Well

Here’s the beautiful paradox: when you truly grasp that “it is finished” and your worth is secure regardless of your diabetes management, you’re actually freed to manage your diabetes better. When performance pressure is removed, sustainable stewardship emerges.

You’re no longer managing diabetes to prove something or earn something. You’re managing it because you’re a loved child of God caring for a gift He’s given you – your body, your life, your days on earth. That’s worship, not works.

This Week’s Practice: Every time you feel guilt about diabetes management, stop and say aloud: “It is finished. I am fully loved. I am fully accepted. I am complete in Christ.” Then ask, “What’s the next wise, loving choice I can make for my body?” Make that choice from grace, not guilt.

“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” – John 19:30

“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1

Why Your Church Needs a Diabetes Ministry

According to the CDC, over 37 million Americans have diabetes, and 96 million have prediabetes. Statistically, that means 25-30% of your church congregation is either managing diabetes or at high risk. Yet most churches have no specific ministry to support these members.

People with diabetes need what only the Body of Christ can provide: spiritual encouragement, practical support, accountability, and community. Starting a God’s 7 study group combines biblical discipleship with practical diabetes education, creating a holistic ministry that addresses body, mind, and spirit.

Getting Started: The First Steps

1. Pray and Get Leadership Approval
Begin with prayer, asking God to guide this ministry. Then approach your pastor or ministry leader with your vision. Share statistics about diabetes prevalence and explain how this group will minister to a significant portion of the congregation. Most church leaders will be enthusiastic about meeting this need.

2. Find Your Core Team
You don’t have to lead this alone. Recruit 2-3 other believers with diabetes (or who have family members with diabetes) to form your leadership team. Look for people with diverse gifts:

• Someone with the gift of hospitality (to create welcoming atmosphere)
• Someone with the gift of teaching (to lead biblical discussions)
• Someone with practical diabetes knowledge (to answer questions)
• Someone with the gift of encouragement (to follow up with members)

3. Choose Your Meeting Format
Options include:

• Weekly meetings: 1 hour, Sunday morning or weeknight
• Bi-weekly meetings: 90 minutes for deeper discussion
• Monthly gatherings: 2 hours with meal and extended fellowship
• 7-week intensive: Focused study through one principle per week

Start with what’s manageable. You can always expand later.

Meeting Structure: Sample 60-Minute Format

Welcome & Check-In (10 minutes)

• Coffee/tea and diabetic-friendly snacks (raw vegetables, cheese, nuts)
• Brief welcome and prayer
• Optional: Share one “win” from the week (stable blood sugars, consistent testing, healthy choice, etc.)

Biblical Teaching (20 minutes)

• Focus on one of the God’s 7 principles
• Read the Scripture passage together
• Brief teaching connecting the biblical principle to diabetes management
• Use the articles from this website as teaching resources

Discussion & Application (20 minutes)

• Small group discussion (if group is large, break into groups of 4-5)
• Share personal experiences and struggles
• Practical problem-solving
• Accountability partners share progress

Prayer & Action Steps (10 minutes)

• Share specific prayer requests related to diabetes
• Commit to one specific action step for the week
• Close in prayer
• Remind of next meeting date/topic

7-Week Study Outline Using God’s 7

Week 1: Seven Days of Creation – Establishing Rhythm

• Scripture: Genesis 1-2
• Focus: Daily routines, testing schedules, medication timing
• Activity: Create personal weekly schedules
• Action Step: Set specific times for testing/medications

Week 2: Seven Colors of Rainbow – God’s Faithfulness

• Scripture: Genesis 9:8-17
• Focus: Trusting God through the ups and downs
• Activity: Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness
• Action Step: Journal one “rainbow moment” daily

Week 3: Seven Feasts – Celebrating Progress

• Scripture: Leviticus 23
• Focus: Recognizing and celebrating small victories
• Activity: Create celebration milestones
• Action Step: Celebrate one victory this week

Week 4: Seven Spirits of God – Complete Wisdom

• Scripture: Isaiah 11:2, Revelation 4:5
• Focus: Making wise decisions with Holy Spirit’s help
• Activity: Discuss difficult decisions; pray for wisdom
• Action Step: Consult Holy Spirit before meals/choices

Week 5: Seven Churches – Community Support

• Scripture: Revelation 2-3
• Focus: Importance of community and accountability
• Activity: Pair up as accountability partners
• Action Step: Check in with partner daily

Week 6: Seven Seals/Trumpets/Bowls – Ultimate Victory

• Scripture: Revelation 6-16, 21:1-5
• Focus: Eternal perspective on diabetes
• Activity: Share hopes for healing (now and eternal)
• Action Step: Read Revelation 21:1-5 daily

Week 7: Seven Last Words – “It Is Finished”

• Scripture: The Gospel accounts of the crucifixion
• Focus: Release guilt; rest in complete redemption
• Activity: Write down and symbolically “nail” guilt to cross
• Action Step: Daily reminder: “I am complete in Christ”

Discussion Questions Bank

Keep these questions handy to facilitate meaningful discussion:

Opening Questions:

• What was your “diabetes week” like? Highs and lows?
• Where did you see God show up in your diabetes management?
• What’s one thing you’re grateful for this week?

Biblical Application Questions:

• How does this Scripture passage speak to your diabetes experience?
• What stands out to you most about God’s character in this passage?
• How can we apply this truth practically this week?

Practical Diabetes Questions:

• What’s your biggest challenge in diabetes management right now?
• Has anyone found a solution to [common problem]?
• What tips or tricks have helped you succeed?

Spiritual Growth Questions:

• How has diabetes drawn you closer to God?
• What lies about diabetes/faith do you need to reject?
• How can we pray for each other specifically this week?

Practical Tips for Group Success

1. Create a Safe, Judgment-Free Space
Establish ground rules: no judgment about A1C numbers, food choices, or management styles. Everyone is at a different place in their journey. Confidentiality is essential – what’s shared in the group stays in the group.

2. Keep Snacks Appropriate
Never serve high-carb snacks at a diabetes support group! Stick with vegetables and dip, cheese and crackers (whole grain), nuts, sugar-free beverages. This models good choices and removes temptation.

3. Partner with Healthcare Professionals
Occasionally invite a certified diabetes educator, dietitian, or endocrinologist from your congregation (or community) to answer questions. Make it clear the group is spiritual support, not medical advice.

4. Celebrate Milestones
Recognize birthdays, diabetes anniversaries (diagnosis date), improved A1Cs, weight loss goals met, medication reductions. Bring diabetic-friendly treats and make it special.

5. Use Technology
Create a private Facebook group or GroupMe chat for between-meeting encouragement, recipe sharing, prayer requests, and accountability. Share helpful articles and resources.

6. Expand Beyond Meetings
Consider adding:

• Monthly group walks or exercise activities
• Quarterly healthy potlucks with recipe sharing
• Annual diabetes health fair at church
• Service projects (raising funds for diabetes research, providing supplies to those in need)

Resources You’ll Need

Free Resources:

• Download the God’s 7 devotionals from this website
• Print Scripture cards for memorization
• Use CDC’s diabetes education materials (free)
• American Diabetes Association resources

Recommended Materials:

• Notebooks or journals for each member
• Blood sugar tracking sheets (printable)
• Name tags (at least for first few meetings)
• Bible study materials on relevant topics

Handling Common Challenges

Challenge: Someone dominates discussion
Solution: Use a talking object (small stone, cross, etc.) – only person holding it can speak. Set time limits: “Let’s hear from everyone for 2 minutes each.”

Challenge: Tension between Type 1 and Type 2 members
Solution: Address this directly in first meeting: “All types of diabetes are valid struggles. We’re here to support each other, not compare conditions.” Occasionally split into type-specific discussion groups.

Challenge: Someone gives medical advice they’re not qualified to give
Solution: Gently redirect: “That’s interesting! Everyone should check with their doctor about whether that approach is right for them. What works for one person may not work for another.”

Challenge: Low attendance/interest
Solution: Survey members about best times/formats. Promote group widely (church bulletin, announcements, social media). Consider that even 3-4 faithful members make a worthwhile ministry.

Sample Promotional Announcement

“Are you living with diabetes? You’re not alone! Join us for ‘God’s 7’ – a new support group combining biblical encouragement with practical diabetes management. We’ll explore God’s pattern of seven throughout Scripture and discover how it applies to living well with diabetes. All types of diabetes welcome. Meets [day/time/location]. Contact [name/email] for more info. Your diabetes journey needs community – join us!”

Measuring Success

Success isn’t just about numbers (though growth is wonderful!). A successful God’s 7 group is one where:

• Members feel less alone in their diabetes journey
• People are growing spiritually through their chronic illness
• Practical diabetes management is improving
• Relationships and accountability are forming
• Members are finding hope and encouragement in God’s Word
• The burden of diabetes management feels lighter because it’s shared

Ready to Start? Download the complete God’s 7 Study Group Leader Guide from our resources page. It includes detailed lesson plans, discussion questions, handouts, and promotional materials. May God bless your ministry to those living with diabetes!

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” – Hebrews 10:24-25

The Battle of Jericho: Victory Through Faithful Obedience

In Joshua 6, God gave unusual battle instructions: march around the city of Jericho once a day for six days, then seven times on the seventh day. No attacking, no strategizing – just faithful walking in obedience. On the seventh circuit of the seventh day, the walls fell, and Israel won complete victory.

This story isn’t just ancient history – it’s a template for battling high blood sugar. Your “Jericho walls” might be stubborn A1C numbers, insulin resistance, or weight that won’t budge. Like Joshua, you need a strategy that combines faithful obedience with God’s power. And like Joshua, that strategy involves walking – specifically, walking in a pattern of seven.

Why Walking Matters for Diabetes

Before we dive into the Joshua Walking Plan, understand why walking is your secret weapon against diabetes:

Walking Lowers Blood Sugar Immediately
Studies show that a 15-minute walk after meals can lower blood sugar spikes by up to 30%. Your muscles use glucose for energy, pulling it out of your bloodstream without requiring insulin. It’s like opening a drain for excess blood sugar.

Walking Improves Insulin Sensitivity
Regular walking makes your cells more responsive to insulin, meaning you need less insulin to get the same blood sugar-lowering effect. This is crucial for both Type 1 (reducing insulin needs) and Type 2 (potentially reducing or eliminating medication).

Walking Aids Weight Loss
Consistent walking, especially when combined with good nutrition, leads to gradual, sustainable weight loss. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight significantly improves diabetes management.

Walking Reduces Stress
Stress hormones raise blood sugar. Walking reduces cortisol and increases endorphins, helping stabilize both mood and glucose levels. Prayer walking adds spiritual benefits.

Walking Is Free and Accessible
No gym membership, equipment, or special skills required. If you can walk to your mailbox, you can do this plan. Start where you are and progress gradually.

The Joshua Walking Plan: Seven Days, Seven Circles

Overview
This seven-day walking plan mirrors Joshua’s march around Jericho. Each day builds on the previous, with the seventh day being the “complete victory” day. The plan repeats weekly, creating a sustainable rhythm.

Basic Framework
– Days 1-6: One “circle” walk per day (15-20 minutes)
– Day 7: Seven “circles” (if physically able) or 30-40 minutes
– Each circle includes prayer/meditation on God’s faithfulness
– Test blood sugar before and after to see God’s provision in action

Day 1: The First Circle – Establishing Faith

Scripture: Joshua 6:3 – “March around the city once with all the armed men.”

Walk: 15 minutes at comfortable pace
Prayer Focus: “Lord, I’m starting this journey in faith. Help me be consistent like Joshua’s army.”
Reflection: Joshua’s army didn’t see results on day one, but they obeyed anyway. Your blood sugar might not drop dramatically today, but you’re building the habit that leads to victory.

Practical Tips:

• Best time: 15 minutes after largest meal of day
• Start slow if you’re not used to exercise
• Use a fitness tracker or phone app to track your “circle”
• Test blood sugar before walk and 30 minutes after

Day 2: The Second Circle – Building Consistency

Scripture: Joshua 6:4 – “Do this for six days.”

Walk: 15-20 minutes
Prayer Focus: “God of faithfulness, help me show up again tomorrow and the next day.”
Reflection: Consistency matters more than intensity. Better to walk 15 minutes daily than 2 hours once a week.

Tips:

• Walk the same route to build habit
• Consider walking with a friend for accountability
• If you miss a day, don’t quit – just restart the next day

Day 3: The Third Circle – Overcoming Obstacles

Scripture: Joshua 6:10 – “But Joshua had commanded the army, ‘Do not give a war cry.'”

Walk: 20 minutes
Prayer Focus: “Lord, when obstacles arise, help me stay silent before You and keep walking.”
Reflection: Joshua’s army couldn’t shout yet – they had to wait for God’s timing. You might not see dramatic results yet, but keep walking in faith.

Common Day 3 Obstacles:

• Soreness (normal! Keep moving, it will decrease)
• Boredom (try a new route or worship music)
• Discouragement (focus on consistency, not immediate results)

Day 4: The Fourth Circle – Halfway Victory

Scripture: Psalm 23:4 – “Even though I walk through the darkest valley…”

Walk: 20 minutes
Prayer Focus: “Thank you that You walk with me. I’m not alone in this journey.”
Reflection: You’re past halfway through the week! This is when habits start to stick. Your body is beginning to expect and even crave this walk.

Encouragement:

• You’re building muscle that burns glucose
• Your insulin sensitivity is improving
• Your stress levels are decreasing
• You’re honoring the temple God gave you

Day 5: The Fifth Circle – Perseverance

Scripture: Hebrews 12:1 – “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

Walk: 20-25 minutes
Prayer Focus: “God, give me perseverance to finish what I started.”
Reflection: Day 5 can feel monotonous. Joshua’s army walked around Jericho five times with no visible results. Keep walking. The breakthrough is coming.

Combat Monotony:

• Try interval walking: normal pace alternating with faster pace
• Add arm movements or light weights
• Listen to an audiobook or podcast
• Pray through a specific Scripture passage

Day 6: The Sixth Circle – Preparation

Scripture: Joshua 6:4 – “On the seventh day, march around the city seven times.”

Walk: 20-25 minutes
Prayer Focus: “Prepare my heart and body for tomorrow’s complete victory walk.”
Reflection: Tomorrow is the breakthrough day. Today you prepare physically and spiritually. Rest well tonight. Stay hydrated. Believe that walls are about to fall.

Prepare for Day 7:

• Plan your route for longer walk tomorrow
• Invite a friend to walk with you
• Set aside extra time
• Pray for God to show His power

Day 7: The Seventh Day – Complete Victory

Scripture: Joshua 6:15-16 – “On the seventh day, they got up at daybreak and marched around the city seven times… When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed.”

Walk: 30-45 minutes (or seven shorter 5-7 minute “circles” throughout the day)
Prayer Focus: “Lord, may walls fall today – walls of high blood sugar, discouragement, and limitation.”
Reflection: This is your “shout day.” After faithful obedience all week, something shifts. Maybe your blood sugar is lower. Maybe you feel stronger. Maybe the walls are internal – defeated mindsets about what you can accomplish.

Two Options for Day 7:

Option A: The Marathon Approach
Walk 30-45 minutes in one session (symbolizing Joshua’s seven circuits in one day). Celebrate when done!

Option B: The Seven Circles Approach
Take seven short 5-7 minute walks throughout the day – after each meal, before bed, etc. This is actually more effective for blood sugar control and doable for those with limited mobility or time.

Measuring Your Victory

After your first complete seven-day cycle, assess your “walls that fell”:

Physical Walls:

• Compare week’s average blood sugar to previous week
• Notice energy levels
• Check for weight changes (don’t obsess, just notice)
• Assess how clothes fit
• Monitor sleep quality

Spiritual Walls:

• Do you feel closer to God?
• Is there less anxiety about diabetes?
• Do you feel more in control of your health?
• Are you experiencing more peace?

Emotional Walls:

• Less discouragement about diabetes?
• More hope for the future?
• Reduced stress levels?
• Greater sense of accomplishment?

Continuing the Cycle

The beauty of the Joshua Walking Plan is its repeatability. Each week you complete the seven-day cycle:

Week 1-4: Build the habit, establish consistency
Week 5-8: Increase intensity (walk faster or longer)
Week 9-12: Add variety (hills, intervals, different routes)
Week 13+: Maintain for life, adjusting as needed

After 12 weeks (about three months), most people see significant improvements in A1C, weight, energy, and overall diabetes control. More importantly, you’ve built a sustainable habit rooted in biblical faithfulness.

Modifications for Different Abilities

If you have limited mobility:

• Chair exercises count! Arm circles, seated marching, leg lifts
• Walk as much as able, even if just around your home
• Use a pool for water walking (less impact)
• The principle remains: move consistently in a pattern of seven

If you have neuropathy:

• Wear proper diabetic shoes with cushioning
• Check feet before and after walks
• Walk on smooth surfaces to avoid injury
• Consider stationary cycling as alternative

If you’re very deconditioned:

• Start with just 5 minutes per circle
• Walk inside your home if needed
• Increase by 1-2 minutes per week
• Consistency matters more than duration

The Shout: Celebrating Victory

Joshua’s army gave a great shout when the walls fell. Don’t forget to celebrate your victories! When you complete a full seven-day cycle, when your blood sugar improves, when you walk even on hard days – celebrate! Tell your accountability partner. Post in your diabetes support group. Thank God specifically for what He’s done.

Your “shout” might be:

• Treating yourself to new walking shoes
• Sharing your testimony at church
• Posting your progress on social media
• Taking a “victory lap” with a friend
• Writing in your journal about walls that have fallen

Start Today: You don’t need to wait for Monday or the first of the month. Start your first circle today. Like Joshua, step out in faith before you see results. Walk around your Jericho. Trust that God is working even when you can’t see it. And on the seventh day, watch for walls to fall.

“By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the army had marched around them for seven days.” – Hebrews 11:30

Download the Joshua Walking Plan tracker, prayer guide, and printable journal pages from our resources section to help you stay consistent!