Grace and Truth

"Living by grace means daily affirming our unworthiness. We are never thankful for what we think we deserve." - Randy Alcorn Recently I was asked to attend a leadership study group at church being led by our pastor, Shawn Thornton. There's roughly 15 people in the group, and we've met for a couple of weeks so far and we plan on meeting for another three or so. It's been wonderful. A real honor and something I find myself looking forward to deeply.

Last week pastor gave us homework and asked us to read The Grace and Truth Paradox by Randy Alcorn. It's a tiny book. I finished it in a few hours. But guys, few books have made as much of an impact on me as this one. I hope to someday dedicate a full week's worth of devotions as it relates to health, but I admit I can't get my head around its thesis: Christlike balance.

My summary of the book? Truth is the price tag of our redemption. Grace pays it. The paradox? God hates sin as much as He loves sinners. (Like I said, it's baking my brain but my heart loves it.) Jesus was perfect in grace and truth, and He is our example as leaders. And if I may add, as husbands, wives, employees, bosses, parents, fitness enthusiasts and the not-so-enthused.

When it comes to PrayFit Ministries, I want nothing more than to follow Jesus in all we say and do. For years, we've tried to keep a balance of grace and truth in our approach to health. Never putting too much emphasis on the body while being careful not to put less emphasis on it than God would have us.

The Conclusion? We need the direction of truth about our bodies to help us do what we need to do for His renown, and we need the constant reminder of grace that allows us to achieve any of it. - Jimmy Peña