July 8, 2011Read: Hebrews 12

"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." --Hebrews 12:1-2

If you've ever been to a firing range, you've likely seen overzealous newbies eyeballing their targets at a distance with every shot. But gifted marksmen will tell you that before releasing a shot, they're not looking at their target -- they're looking at their sights. The sights allow shooters to line up for an accurate shot. After identifying the ring that they want to hit on the paper silhouette, their focus comes back to the sights. The target literally blurs in the distance as they steady their aim and check their breathing. Distractions fade in a long, slow exhale -- the shooters in the adjacent lanes are suddenly mute. Then, the deafening report of the weapon and a perfectly placed shot in the 10-ring -- center mass, they say.

None of us is worthy of Heaven -- not by a long shot. And even though it is our aim, we'd be well served to take our eyes off what lies down range and return them to our sight picture -- the calming image of the Savior that steadies our aim and keeps us on target, no matter what's going on around us.

--E.V.

PROTEIN FOR FAT LOSS

While most people choose to focus on carbohydrates in their weight loss programs, it's important not to lose sight of protein intake. Protein, which comes in at only 4 calories per gram, is helpful in shedding unwanted pounds. Research has shown that high-protein diets are great for enhancing satiety, elevating metabolism, building muscle and burning fat. The good news is that the type of protein you choose to build your diet around may not matter all that much. A new study conducted by scientists at Laval University in Canada seems to indicate that both plant- and animal-based proteins are equally effective at aiding in weight loss.

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FAT FACT: The World Health Organization estimates that by 2015, there will be more than 1.5 billion overweight consumers, incurring health costs beyond $117 billion per year in the U.S. alone.

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