21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 10

IT'S TAKES DISCIPLINE

I am able to do all things

through Him who strengthens me.

~

Philippians 4:13

FOCUS FOR TODAY

Discipline matters.

It takes discipline to strengthen your faith;

It takes discipline to improve your fitness.

Physical fitness requires discipline: the discipline to exercise regularly and the discipline to eat sensibly - it's as simple as that. But there's a catch: understanding the need for discipline is easy, but leading a disciplined life can be hard for most of us. Why? Because it's usually more fun to eat a second piece of cake that it is to jog a second lap around the track. But, as we survey the second helpings that all too often find their way onto our plates, we should consider this: as Christians, we are instructed to lead disciplined lives, and when we behave in undisciplined ways, we are living outside of God's will.

God's Word reminds us again and again that our Creator expects us to be disciplined in our thoughts and disciplined in our actions. God doesn't reward laziness, misbehavior, apathy, or shortsightedness. To the contrary, He expects believers to behave with dignity and self-control.

We live in a world in which leisure is glorified and consumption is commercialized. But God has other plans. He did not create us for lives of gluttony or slothfulness; He created us for far greater things.

Life's greatest rewards seldom fall into our laps; to the contrary, our greatest accomplishments usually require lots of work, which is perfectly fine with God. After all, He knows that we're up to the task, and He has big plans for us; may we, as disciplined believers, always be worthy of those plans.

Work is doing it.

Discipline is doing it every day.

Diligence is doing it well

every day. 

-

Dave Ramsey

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

DISCIPLINE IS NOT A FOUR-LETTER WORD

Exercising discipline should never be viewed as an imposition or as a form of punishment; far from it. Discipline is the means by which you can take control of your life (which, by the way, is far better than letting your life control you.)

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

Hebrews 12:11

New International Version (NIV)

¹¹ No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Proverbs 10:17

New International Version (NIV)

 ¹⁷ Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life,
   but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. 

2 Peter 1:5-6

New International Version (NIV)

 ⁵ For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; ⁶ and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;

1 Corinthians 9:27

New International Version (NIV)

²⁷ No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Matthew 7:20

New International Version (NIV)

²⁰ Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

MORE THOUGHTS ABOUT DISCIPLINE 

If one examines the secret behind a championship football team, a magnificent orchestra, or a successful business, the principal ingredient is invariably discipline. - James Dobson

Discipline is training that develops and corrects. - Charles Stanley

God cannot build character without our cooperation. If we resist Him, then He chastens us into submission. But, if we submit to Him, then He can accomplish His work. He is not satisfied with a halfway job. God wants a perfect work; He wants a finished product that is mature and complete. -Warren Wiersbe

The Bible calls for discipline. - Billy Graham

THE SOURCE OF STRENGTH

Where do you go to find strength? The gym? The health food store? The espresso bar? There is a better source of strength, of course, and that source is God. He is a never-ending source of strength and courage if you call upon Him. 

Are you an energized Christian? You should be. But if you're not, you must seek strength and renewal from the source that will never fail: that source, or course, is your Heavenly Father. And rest assured - when you sincerely petition Him, He will give you all the strength you need to live victoriously Him.

Are you a woman who has "tapped in" to the power of God? Have you turned your life and your heart over to Him, or are you muddling along under your own power? The answer to this question will determine the quality of your life here on earth and the destiny of your life throughout all eternity. So start tapping in-and remember that when it comes to strength, God is the Ultimate Source.

God cannot build character with out

our cooperation. If we resist Him,

then He chastens us into submission.

But, if we submit to Him, then He can

accomplish His work. He is nor satisfied

with a halfway job. God wants a perfect work;

He wants a finished product

that is mature and complete.

~

Warren Wiersbe

American pastor, Bible teacher, conference speaker 

and a prolific writer of Christian literature and theological works.

 

WORKING IT OUT

START NOW 

If you are genuinely planning on becoming a disciplined person "some day" in the distant future, you are deluding yourself. The best day to begin exercising self-discipline is this one!

SMALL STEPS

 

If you want to become more physically fit,you do not have to make one giant leap. You can start with many small steps, and you should. When it comes to any new exercise regimen, start off slowly and improving gradually is the smart way to do it.

So if you are determined to improve the state of your health, remember that consistency is the key. Start slowly, avoid injury, be consistent, and expect gradual improvement, not instant success.

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

THE BOOK OF PROVERBS

HAS MUCH TO TEACH

If you are looking for words of wisdom that extol the virtues of a disciplined lifestyle, the Book of Proverbs is a wonderful place to start. It has 31 chapters, one for each day of the month. If you read Proverbs regularly, and if you take it's teachings to heart, you'll become a more disciplined person. And God will smile.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD ABOUT

GOD'S STRENGTH

1 Chronicles 19:13

New King James Version (NKJV)

¹³ Be of good courage, and let us be strong for our people and for the cities of our God. And may the LORD do what is good in His sight.”

Isaiah 40:28-31

New King James Version (NKJV)

²⁸ Have you not known?
      Have you not heard?
      The everlasting God, the LORD,
      The Creator of the ends of the earth,
      Neither faints nor is weary.
      His understanding is unsearchable.
       ²⁹ He gives power to the weak,
      And to those who have no might He increases strength.
       ³⁰ Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
      And the young men shall utterly fall,
       ³¹ But those who wait on the LORD
      Shall renew their strength;
      They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
      They shall run and not be weary,
      They shall walk and not faint.

Exodus 15:2

New King James Version (NKJV)

 ² The LORD is my strength and song,
      And He has become my salvation;
      He is my God, and I will praise Him;
      My father’s God, and I will exalt Him.

Joel 3:16

New King James Version (NKJV)

¹⁶ The LORD also will roar from Zion,
      And utter His voice from Jerusalem;
      The heavens and earth will shake;
      But the LORD will be a shelter for His people,
      And the strength of the children of Israel.

He said unto me,

My grace is sufficient for thee:

for my strength is made perfect 

in weakness.

~

2 Corinthians 12:9

NOTES TO YOURSELF

Make notes about small, but important, steps you can take to improve your health.

21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 9

HEALTHY PRIORITIES

Beloved, I pray in all respects you may prosper

and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.

~

3 John 1:2

FOCUS FOR TODAY

Fitness is a journey, not a destination.

Achieving  physical fitness - and maintaining it -

is a seven-day-a week assignment.

If you don't make physical fitness a priority, 

 your health will suffer.

When it comes to matter of physical, spiritual, and emotional health, Christians possess an infallible guidebook: the Holy Bible. And,when it comes to matter concerning fitness - weather physical, emotional or spiritual fitness - God's Word can help us establish clear priorities that can guide our steps and our lives.

It's easy to talk about establishing clear priorities for maintaining physical and spiritual health, but it's much more difficult to live according to those priorities. For busy believers living in a demanding world, placing first things first can be difficult indeed. Why? Because so many people are expecting so many things from us!

If you're having trouble prioritizing your day - or if you're having trouble sticking to a plan that enhances your spiritual and physical health - perhaps you've been trying to organize your life according to your own plans, not God's.md

 A better strategy, or course, is to take your daily obligations and place them in the hands of the One who created you. To do so, you must prioritize your day according to God's commandments, and you must seek His will and His wisdom in all matters.

Would you like to embark upon a personal journey to better fitness? If so, you should remind yourself that on every step of that journey, you have a traveling companion: your Heavenly Father. Turn the concerns of this day over to Him - prayerfully, earnestly, and often. And trust Him to give you he strength you need to become the kind of person He wants you to become.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

BECOME AN EXPERT

You don't have to attend medical school to understand the basic principles of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In fact, many of the things you need to know are contained in this text! But don't stop here. Vow to make yourself an expert on the care and feeding of the body that God has given you. In today's information-packed word, becoming an expert isn't a very hard thing to do.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁹ Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; ²⁰ you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

John 10:10

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁰ The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Ephesians 4:1

New International Version (NIV)

 ¹ As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

Psalm 23:5-6

New International Version (NIV)

 ⁵ You prepare a table before me
   in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
   my cup overflows.
⁶ Surely your goodness and love will follow me
   all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
   forever.

James 5:13

New International Version (NIV)

 ¹³ Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. 

 

 

MORE THOUGHTS ABOUT HEALTH 

The soul is the user, the body for use; hence the one is the master, the other the servant. - St. Ambrose of Milan

Ultimate healing and the glorification of the body are certainly among the blessings of Calvary for the believing Christian. Immediate healing is not guaranteed. - Warren Wiersbe

Let exercise alternate with rest. - Pythagaras

The effective Christians of history have been men and women of great personal discipline - mental discipline, discipline of the body, discipline of the tongue, and discipline of the emotion. - Billy Graham

Exercise: You don't have time not to. - Anonymous

KNOW YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE

High blood presure can cause heart attacks, strokes, and plenty of other serious health problems. The good news is that high blood pressure is usually treatable with medication, or lifestyle changes, or both. But you won't know you eed treatment unless you know your blood pressure. Thankfully, blood pressure cuffs can be found just about everywhere, in many drug stores and even in supermarkets. Or, if you prefer, you can but your own blood pressure cuff to use at home.

So remember this: you don't have to wait for a doctor's appointment to check your blood pressure. You can monitor your own blood pressure in between visits to the doctor's office, and that's precisely what you should do.

 

 

WORKING IT OUT

MAKING EXERCISE FUN

Make exercise enjoyable. Your workouts should be a source of pleasure and satisfaction, not a form of self-imposed punishment. Find a way yo exercise your body that is satisfying, effective, and fun.

THE GIFT OF LIFE

Life is a glorious gift fron God. Treat it that way. This day, like every other, is filled to the brim with opportunities, chllenges, and choices. But, no choice that you make is more important than the choice you make concerning God. Today, you will either place Him at the center of your life - or not - and the consequenses of that choice have implications that are both temporal and eternal.

Sometimes, we don't intentionally neglect God; we simply allow ourselves to become overwhelmed with the demands of everyday life. And then, without our even realizing it, we gradualy drift away from the One we need th most. Thanfully, God never drifts away from us. He remaons always present, always steadfast, always lving.

As you begin this day, place God and His Son Jesus where they belong; in your head, on your prayers, on your lips, and in your heart. And then, with God as your guide and companion, let the journey begin....

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

DON'T TRUST THE MEDIA'S MESSAGE

Many of the messages that you receive from the media are specifically designed to sell you  products that interfere with your spiritual, physical, or emotional health. God takes great interest in your health; the moguls from Madison Avenue take great interest in your pocketbook. Trust God.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD 

ABOUT LIFE

Ephesians 4:1

New International Version (NIV)

¹ As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

Psalm 100:1-2

New International Version (NIV)

A psalm. For giving grateful praise. ¹ Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
 ² Worship the LORD with gladness;
   come before him with joyful songs.

Philippians 4:4

New International Version (NIV)

 ⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 

 

John 14:6

New International Version (NIV)

 ⁶ Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Proverbs 21:21

New International Version (NIV)

 ²¹ Whoever pursues righteousness and love
   finds life, prosperity and honor.

NOTES TO YOURSELF

 

Write down ways you can be more proactive about your health.

21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 8

YOUR CHOICES MATTER

I am offering you life or death, blessings or curses.

Now, choose life!...To choose life is to love

the Lord your God, obey Him, and stay close to Him.

~

Deuteronomy 30:19-20  

FOCUS FOR TODAY

First you make choices...and soon those choices begin to shape your life.

That's why you must make smart choices...

or face the consequences of making dumb ones.

Each day, we make thousands of small choices concerning the things that we do and the things we think. Most of these choices are made without too much forethought. In fact, most of us go about our daily lives spending a significant portion simply reacting to events. Often, our actions are simply the result of impulse or habit. God asks that we slow down long enough to think about the choices that we make, and He asks that we make those choices in accordance with His commandments.

The Bible teaches us that our bodies are "temples" that belong to God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We are commanded ( not encouraged, not advised, commanded!) to treat our bodies with respect and honor. We do so by making wise choices and by making those choices consistently over an extended period of time.

Do you sincerely seek to improve the overall quality of your health? Then vow to yourself and to God that you will begin making the kind of wise choices that will lead to a longer, healthier, happier life. The responsibility for those choices is yours. And so are the rewards.

Life is a series of choices between

the bad, the good and the best.

Everything depends on how we choose.

~

Vance Havner

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

IF SOMEONE ELSE 

IS COOKING YOUR MEALS...

If someone else is cooking your meals, ask that person to help you plan a healthier diet. Without the cooperation of the person who cooks your food, you will have an incredibly difficult time sticking to a healthier diet.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

Acts 24:16

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁶ So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.

Matthew 6:33

New International Version (NIV)

³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

 

James 1:5-8

New International Version (NIV)

⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. ⁶ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. ⁷ That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. ⁸ Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

Proverbs 4:7

New International Version (NIV)

⁷ The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
   Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

The wise people will shine like

the brightness of the sky.

Those who teach others to live right

will shine like starts

forever and forever.

~

Daniel 12:3

MORE THOUGHTS ABOUT

MAKING WISE CHOICES

Since behaviors become habits, make them work with you and not against you.  -E Stanley Jones

He who does not overcome small faults, shall fall little by little into greater ones. - Thomas a` Kempis

There may be no trumpet sound or loud applause when we make a right decision, just a calm sense of resolution and peace. - Gloria Gaither

I do not know how the Spirit of Christ performs it, but He brings us choices through which we constantly change, fresh and new, into His likeness. - Joni Eareckson Tada

Virtue - even attempted virtue - brings light; indulgence brings fog. - C.S. Lewis

EAT LESS, WALK MORE

Are you chained to a desk or trapped in a sedentary lifestyle? And are you waiting for something big to happen before you revolutionize your exercise habits? If so, wait no more. In fact, you can start today by substituting a light snack and a healthy walk for that calorie-laden lunch.

If you're in reasonably good shape, a nice healthy walk can be a great substitute for a big sit down meal. So don't underestimate the benefits of a good walk. It's a great way to burn a few calories, to get some fresh air, and to improve your life.

WORKING IT OUT
MANY CHANCES
TO MAKE GOOD DECISIONS

Physical fitness is not a result of a single decision that is made "once and for all". Physical fitness results from the thousands of decisions that are made day after day, week after week, and year after year.

ALWAYS KEEP LEARNING

Today is your classroom: what will you learn? Will you use today's experiences as tools for personal, spiritual and physical improvement, or will you ignore the lessons that life and God are trying to teach you?  Will you carefully study God's Word, and will you apply His teachings to the experiences of everyday life? The events of today have much to teach. You have much to learn. May you live - and learn - accordingly.

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

HIGH QUALITY CHOICES LEAD

TO A HIGH QUALITY LIFE

Every step of your life's journey is a choice...and the quality of those choices determines the quality of the journey.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD ABOUT

LIFETIME LEARNING

Proverbs 15:31

New International Version (NIV)

 ³¹ Whoever heeds life-giving correction
   will be at home among the wise.

Proverbs 23:12

New International Version (NIV)

 ¹² Apply your heart to instruction
   and your ears to words of knowledge. 

Proverbs 1:7

New International Version (NIV)

 ⁷ The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,
   but fools despise wisdom and instruction. 

Proverbs 19:2

New International Version (NIV)

 ² Desire without knowledge is not good—
   how much more will hasty feet miss the way!

Matthew 13:11

New International Version (NIV)

 ¹¹ He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them.

NOTES TO YOURSELF 

Make a short list of the people whose healthy habits you admire. Then jot down a few things you can do to become a little more like them.

21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 7

ASKING FOR GOD'S HELP

So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you;

seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 

For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds,

and to him who knocks it will be opened.

--------------------------

Luke 11:9-10

FOCUS FOR TODAY

If you are serious about improving

your fitness or your faith, pray about it.

Do you genuinely want to strengthen your fitness and your faith?  If the answer  to that question is yes, then you should set aside ample time each morning to ask God's help.
Is prayer an integral art of your daily life, or is it a hit-or-miss habit? Do you "pray without ceasing", or is it an afterthought? Do you regularly pray in the quiet moments of the early morning, or do you bow your head only when others are watching?
As Christians, we are instructed to pray often. But it is important to note that genuine prayer requires much more that bending on out knees and closing our eyes. Heartfelt prayer is an attitude of the heart.
If your prayers have become more a matter of habit than a matter of passion, you are robbing yourself of a deeper relationship with God.And how can you rectify that situation? By praying more frequently and more fervently. When you do, God will shower you with His blessings, His grace, and His love.

Too many of us, even well-intentioned believers, tend to "compartmentalize" our waking hours into a few familiar categories: work, rest, play, family time, worship, etc... To do this is a mistake. Worship and praise should be woven into the fabric of our lives; prayer should never be relegated to a weekly three-hours visit to church on Sunday morning.
Theologian Wayne Oates once admitted, "Many of my prayers are made with my eyes open. You see, it seems I'm always praying about something, and it's not always convenient - or sage -  to close my eyes." Dr. Oates understood that God always hears our prayers and that the relative position of our eyelids is of no concern to God.
Today, find a little more time to lift your concerns to God in prayer and praise!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

PRAY ABOUT YOUR HEALTH 

As you petition God each morning, ask Him for the strength and the wisdom to treat your body as His creation and His temple. During the days ahead, you will face countless temptations to do otherwise, but with God's help, you can treat your body as the priceless, one-of-a kind gift that it most certainly is.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

James 5:16 (New International Version)

¹⁶ Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

Psalm 19:14 (New International Version)

 ¹⁴ May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart
   be pleasing in your sight,
   LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Luke 5:16 (New International Version)

¹⁶ But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.

Romans 12:12 (New International Version)

¹² Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

James 5:13 (New International Version)

 ¹³ Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. 

MORE THOUGHTS ABOUT

THE POWER OF PRAYER

What God gives in answer to our prayers will always be the thing we most urgently need, and it will always be sufficient. - Elisabeth Elliot

God says we don't need to be anxious about anything, we just need to pray about everything. 

- Stormie Omartian

Are you weak? Weary? Confused? Troubled? Pressured? How is your relationship with God? Is it held in it's place of priority? I believe the great the pressure, the greater your need for alone time with Him. - Kay Arthur

When there is a matter that requires definite prayer, pray until you believe God and until you can thank Him for His answer. -Hannah Whitall Smith

Prayer guards the hearts and minds

and causes God to bring peace

out of chaos.

----------

Beth Moore

Two wings are necessary to lift out souls toward God: prayer and praise. Praise accepts  the answer. 

-Mrs. Charles E. Cowman

Find a place to pray where no one imagines that you are praying. Then, shut the door and talk to God. - Oswald Chambers

Prayer connects us with God's limitless potential. - Henry Blackaby

To pray is to mount on eagle's wings above the clouds and get into clear heaven where God dwells. 

- C.H. Spuurgeon

We forget that God sometimes has to say "No." We pray to Him as our heavenly Father, and like wise human fathers, He often says, "No.", not from whim or caprice, but from wisdom, from love, and from knowing what is best for us. - Peter Marshall

ASK FOR GOD'S HELP

God wants you to experience abundant life, but He will not force you to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Managing your food and your fitness is up to you. If you want more from life, ask more from God. D.L. Moody observed, "Some people think God does not like to be troubled with our constant asking. But, the way to trouble God is not to come at all."

So, if you seek an improved level of fitness - or if you seek any other worthy goal - ask God (and keep asking Him) until He answers your prayers.

WORKING IT OUT

DAY IN, DAY OUT

Your journey with God unfolds day by day, and that's precisely how your journey to am improved state of physical fitness must unfold: moment by moment, day by day, year by year.

PRAY CONSTANTLY

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

ASK MORE FREQUENTLY

If life's inevitable temptations seem to be getting the best of you, try praying more often, even if many of these prayers are simply brief, "open-eyed" requests to your Father in heaven.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD ABOUT

ASKING FOR GOD'S HELP

John 15:7

New International Version (NIV)

⁷ If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

Luke 11:11-13

New International Version (NIV)

   ¹¹ “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? ¹² Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? ¹³ If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

Philippians 4:6

New International Version (NIV)

⁶ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

James 4:2

New International Version (NIV)

² You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.

Proverbs 2:6

New International Version (NIV)

⁶ For the LORD gives wisdom;
   from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

NOTES TO YOURSELF

Make notes about the things you need to pray about today.

21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 6

Therefore, get your minds ready for action,

being self-disciplined, and set your hope completely

on the grace to be brought to you

at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

----------------------

1 Peter 1:13

FOCUS FOR TODAY

When it comes to food, fitness, or faith, 

the best moment to begin major

improvements is the 

present moment.

If you are determined to improve the state of your physical, spiritual, or emotional health, the best time to begin is NOW. But if you are like most people, you will be tempted to put things off until tomorrow, or the next day, or the next.

The habit of putting things off until the last minute, and it's first cousin, the habit of making excuses for work that was never done, can be detrimental to your life, to your character, and to your health. Are you in the habit of doing what needs to be done when t needs to be done, or are you a dues-paying member of the Procrastinator's Club?  If you are a person who has already acquired the habit of doing things sooner then later, congratulations! But if you find yourself putting off all those unpleasant tasks until later (or never), it's time to think about the consequences of your behavior, even if you display a little of both tendencies! (like me!)

One way you can learn to defeat procrastination is by paying less attention on the sacrifices you are making today and more attention to the rewards you will receive tomorrow.

So, if you are trying to improve your fitness, or any other aspect of your life, don't spend endless hours fretting over your fate. Simply seek God's counsel and get busy. When you do, you will be richly rewarded because of your willingness to act.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

NOW IS THE TIME

Life is a gift - health must be earned. We earn good health by cultivating healthy habits. This is the right time for you to commit yourself to a more sensible lifestyle. So take a close look at your habits: How you eat, how you exercise, and how you think about your health. The only way that you'll revolutionize your physical health is to revolutionize he habits that make up the fabric of your everyday life.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

James 1:22 (New International Version)

 ²² Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

Ecclesiastes 5:4 (New International Version)

 ⁴ When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it. He has no pleasure in fools; fulfill your vow.

Romans 2:13 (New International Version)

¹³ For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous.

Matthew 25:21 (New International Version)

   ²¹ “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

1 Corinthians 9:27 (New International Version)

²⁷ No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

MORE THOUGHTS  ABOUT

THE NEED TO TAKE ACTION NOW

We spend our lives dreaming of the future, not realizing that a little of it slips away everyday. 

- Barbara Johnson

Th learn new habits is everything, for it is to reach the substance of life. Life is a tissue of habits. - Henfi Frederic Amiel

Do noble things, do not dream them all day long. - Charles Kingsley

Never fail to do something because you don't feel like it. Sometimes you must have to do it now, and you'll feel like it later. - Marie T. Freeman

Measure the size of the obstacles against the size of God.  - Beth Moore

HOW MANY CALORIES?

Of a thousand American adults who were surveyed in a recent poll, eighty-eight percent were unable to accurately estimate how many calories they should consume each day to maintain their weight.

Consequently, these adults didn't know how many calories they should consume if they wanted to lose weight.

Thankfully, in these day of easy Internet information, it isn't difficult to discover your calories target.

WORKING IT OUT

PROCRASTINATION DOES NOT PAY

Healthy choices are easy to pull off until some future date.  But procrastination, especially concerning matters of persona health, is, at best, foolish and, at worst, dangerous. If you feel the need to improve your physical health, don't wait for New Year's Day; don't even wait until tomorrow. The time to begin living a healthier life is the moment you finish reading this sentence.

START MAKING CHANGES NOW

Warren Wiersbe correctly observed, "A Christian should no more defile his body than a Jew would defile the temple." Unfortunately, too many of us have allowed our temples to fall into disrepair. When it comes to fitness and food, it's easy to fall into bad habits. And it's easy to convince ourselves that we'll start improving our health "some day."

If we are to care for our bodies in the way that God intends, we must establish healthy habits, ad we must establish them sooner rather then later.

Saint Jerome advised. "Begin to be now what you will be hereafter."  You should take his advise seriously, and you should take in NOW! When it comes to your health, it's aways the right time to start establishing the right habits.

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

WHAT GOD WANTS FOR YOU

Since God loves you, and since He wants the very best for you, don't you believe that He also wants you to enjoy a healthy lifestyle? Of course He does.And since a healthy life style is what God wants or you, isn't it what you should want, too?

THE SIMPLE LIFE

Proverbs 15:16 (New International Version)

 ¹⁶ Better a little with the fear of the LORD
   than great wealth with turmoil.

1 John 2:15 (New International Version)

 ¹⁵ Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.

1 Timothy 6:7-8 (New International Version)

⁷ For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. ⁸ But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

1 Peter 1:13 (New International Version)

  ¹³ Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. 

 Titus 2:11-12 (New International Version)

 ¹¹ For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. ¹² It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,

NOTES TO YOURSELF

Are your health-related goals clearly defined? Do you have a targeted level of exercise? And do you know how many calories you should be consuming each day based on your age, your health, and your activity level? If so, congratulations. If not, take time to learn how many calories you should be consuming each day. I can help you. Then take a few minutes to write down your health related goals and review these goals often.

I can be reached at www.myphitness.com to help you out with your goals.

21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 5

THE RIGHT KIND OF

EXERCISE FOR YOU

He gives strength to the weary

and strengthens the powerless.

----------------------

Isaiah 40:29 

FOCUS FOR TODAY

Your exercise regimen should be sensible,

enjoyable, safe, and consistent.

If you want to attain and maintain a healthy lifestyle, it's important to engage in a consistent exercise program. Implementing a plan of regular, sensible exercise is one way of ensuring that you've done your part to care for the body that God has given you.

Dr. Kenneth Cooper observed, "Physical activity achieved at any level is an essential ingredient in slowing down the process of aging and turning life into a far more useful, enjoyable - and independent - affair."  So what is the right kind of exercise for you? That's the question for you and your doctor. But whether you're running marathons or walking around the block, it's important to stay as active as you can, as long as you can.

No one can force you to exercise...you'll need to make that decision on your own. And if you genuinely desire to please God, it's a decision that you will make today.

 FOOD FOR THOUGHT

MODERATION DAY BY DAY

John Maxwell observed, "The key to healthy eating is moderation and managing what you eat every day." And he was right. Crash diets don't usually work, but sensible eating habits do work, so plan your meals accordingly.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

2 Corinthians 12:9 (New International Version)

⁹ But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

2 Timothy 2:1

¹ You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

 Exodus 15:2 (New International Version)

 ² “The LORD is my strength and my defense;
   he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
   my father’s God, and I will exalt him. 

Isaiah 40:31 (New International Version)

³¹ but those who hope in the LORD
   will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
   they will run and not grow weary,
   they will walk and not be faint.

Ephesians 6:10 (New International Version)

 ¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 

MORE THOUGHTS ABOUT

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXERCISE

People who exercise  at least 3 hours a week tend to eat a more balanced and healthier diet.

- Dr. Walt Larimore

Give at least two hours every day to exercise, for health, must not be sacrificed to learning. A strong body makes a mind strong. - Thomas Jefferson

It is remarkable how one's wits are sharpened by physical exercise. - Pliny the Younger

And early morning walk is a blessing for the whole day. - Henry David Thoreau

Fitness is a state of body and a state of mind: if your mind leads, your body will follow. 

- Marie T. Freeman

When ever I read the words of Isaiah that say those who "wait on the Lord" shall "run and not be weary" and "walk and not faint," I am reminded of how naturally spiritual development and endurance exercise go together. - Dr. Kenneth Cooper

We have a world to explore and master, and we can't do it if our bodies are accumulating fat and our muscles, joints, and internal organs are breaking down. We need to exercise. -  Dr. Jordan S. Rubin

People who exercise frequently, even if it's weeding in the garden or walking around the block, enjoy  better over all health - physically and emotionally. - Dr. Walt Larimore

Having good health is very different from only being not sick. - Seneca the Younger

Health is not valued until sickness comes. - Thomas Fuller

HOW MUCH EXERCISE?

How much exercise is right for you? That's a decision you should make in consultation with your physician or health expert, like me! But make no mistake: if you want to be a thoughtful caretaker of the only body you'll ever have in this world, exercise is important.

The benefits of exercise are not only physical but also psychological. Regular exercise allows you to build your muscles while you're clearing your head and lifting your spirits. So, if you're not already working out, talk to your doctor and then start an exercise regimen that is right for you. When you do, you'll be doing your body and your mind a favor...and they will both thank you for it.

WORKING IT OUT

REMAKE YOUR ENVIRONMENT

If you're trying to remodel your self, you'll need to remodel your environment, too. In order to decrease temptations and increase the probability of success, you should take a long, hard, look at your home, your office, and the places you frequently visit. Then, you must do whatever you can to move yourself as far as possible from the temptations that you intend to defeat.

SENSIBLE EXERCISE

A healthy lifestyle includes regular, sensible physical exercise. How much exercise is right for you? That's a decision that you should make in consultation with your physician or health expert. But make no mistake: if you sincerely desire to be a thoughtful caretaker of the only body that God has given you, exercise is important.

Once you begin a regular exercise program, you'll discover that the benefits to you are not only physical but also psychological. Regular exercise allows you to build your muscles while you're clearing your head and lifting your spirits.

For where your treasure is,

there your heart will be also.

---------------------

Luke 12:34 

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD ABOUT 

YOUR PRIORITIES

Proverbs 4:6 (New International Version)

⁶ Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
   love her, and she will watch over you.

Philippians 1:9 (New International Version)

 ⁹ And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,

Luke 9:23-24 (New International Version)

 ²³ Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. ²⁴ For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

GOD REWARDS OBEDIENCE

God's instructions are clear: He rewards wise behaviors and He punishes misbehavior. A commitment to a sensible exercise and nutrition program is a way of being wise, and it's also one way of pleasing God every day. 

NOTES TO YOURSELF 

Make notes to your self about spiritual, psychological, and physical benefits you experience when you exercise.

21 Days To A New and Improved You - Day 4

RESPECTING YOUR BODY

Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God,

I urge you to present your bodies A  living sacrifice,

holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship.

------------

Romans 12:1

FOCUS FOR TODAY

If you are not determined to be the master of your body...

then you might just become the slave of your impulses.

In the 12th chapter of Romans, Paul encourages us to make out bodies "holy and pleasing to God." Paul adds that to do so is a "spiritual act of worship." For believers, the implication is clear: God intends that we take special care of the bodies He has given us. But its tempting to do otherwise.

We live in a fast-food world where unhealthy choices are convenient, inexpensive and tempting. And, we live in a digital world filled with modern conveniences that often rob us of the physical exercise needed to maintain healthy lifestyles. As a result, too many of us find ourselves glued to the TV set, with a snack in one hand and the remote in the other. The results are as unfortunate as they are predictable.

How do you treat your body? Do you treat it with the reverence and respect it deserves, or do you take it more or less for granted? Well, the Bible has clear instructions about the way you should take care of the miraculous body that God has given you. 

God's Word teaches us that our bodies are "temples" that belong to God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We are commanded ( not encouraged, not advised - we are commanded!) to treat our bodies with respect and honor. We do so by making wise choices and by making choices  consistently over an extended period of time.

Don't you know that you are

God's sanctuary and that the 

Spirit of God lives in you?

-----------

1 Corinthians 3:16 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

BECOME AN EDUCATED CONSUMER

Educate yourself on which foods are healthy and which foods aren't. Read labels and learn the basics of proper nutrition. Then, use common sense and discipline in planning your diet.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD

 

2 Corinthians 5:1

 ¹ For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 

Psalm 139:13-14 (New International Version)

 ¹³ For you created my inmost being;
   you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
   your works are wonderful,
   I know that full well. 

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (New International Version)

¹⁹ Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; ²⁰ you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. 

Hosea 10:12 (New International Version)

¹² Sow righteousness for yourselves,

   reap the fruit of unfailing love,
and break up your unplowed ground;
   for it is time to seek the LORD,
until he comes
   and showers his righteousness on you. 

MORE THOUGHTS ABOUT

TAKING CARE OF YOUR BODY

Our body is like armor, our soul like the warrior. Take care of both, and you will be ready for what comes. - Amma St. Syncletice

Food ought to be a refreshment to the body, and not a burden.- St. Bonaventure

Eat to live, and not live to eat. - Poor Richard's Almanac

In general, mankind, sine the improvement of cookery, eats twice as much as nature requires.  

- Ben Franklin

Attention to one's lifestyle, especially in the direction of reducing emotional tensions, a modest but regular program of daily exercise, a diet low in salt and sugar and reasonably free of fatty meats and fried foods, and plenty of good drinking water - all these are useful and indeed essential. 

- Norman Cousins

WHAT KIND OF EATER ARE YOU?

Take a few minutes to examine your eating habits. Do you gobble down snack foods while watching TV? Id so, STOP! Do you drink high-calorie soft drinks or feast on unhealthy snacks like potato chips or candy? If so, you're doing your self a disservice! Do you load up your plate and then feel obligated to eat every last bite? If so, it's time to form some new habits.

 Poor eating habits are usually well established, so they won't be easy to change, but change them you must if you want to enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

WORKING IT OUT

WHEN IT COMES TO EXERCISE,

PERSISTENCE PAYS

An exercise program that starts slowly and builds over 

time is far better than an exercise program that starts - and ends - quickly.

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES

Life is a series of choices. Each day, we make countless decisions that can bring us closer to God...or not. When we live according to God's commandments, we earn for ourselves the abundance and Peace that HE intends for us to experience. But, when we turn our backs upon God by disobeying Him, we bring needless suffering upon ourselves and our families.

Do you see God's peace and His blessings? Then obey Him. When you are faced with a difficult choice or a powerful temptation, seek God's counsel and trust the counsel He gives. Invite God into your heart and live according to His commandants. When you do, you will be blessed today, tomorrow, and forever. 

God has given you a guidebook for righteous living called the Holy Bible. It contains through instructions which, if followed, lead to fulfillment and salvation. But, if you choose to ignore God's commandments, the results are as predictable as they are tragic.

So here's a surefire formula for a happy, abundant life: live  righteously.

And for further instructions read the manual.

MORE FROM GOD'S WORD ABOUT RIGHTEOUSNESS

Habakkuk 2:4 (New International Version)

 ⁴ “See, the enemy is puffed up;
   his desires are not upright—
   but the righteous person will live by his faithfulness

2 Timothy 2:22 (New International Version)

 ²² Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

Deuteronomy 10:12 (New International Version)

 ¹² And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, 

STRENGTHENING YOUR FAITH

HAVE FAITH AND GET BUSY

Here's a time-tested formula for success: have faith in God and do the work. It has been said that there are no shortcuts to any place worth going, and those words apply to your physical fitness too.

There are simply no shortcuts to a healthy lifestyle.

 And the world is passing away,

and the lust of it;

but he who does the will of God

abides forever.

-------------

1 John 2:17 

NOTES TO YOURSELF

Makes notes thanking God for the body He has given you.