Since 2009
THE PRAYFIT DEVOTION
Clive Said That
"Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more to the treasury than all the others." --Mark 12:43
Read: Mark 12
Like many of us, Clive Staples didn't really start living until he gave his heart to Jesus. Nine days after he and a writing buddy went for a long walk, Clive -- a known agnostic -- accepted God's grace and used the rest of his life as an offering to the Lord. Two thousand years earlier, Jesus watched a poor widow offer her life's savings -- two copper coins (worth about half a penny) -- into the church plate.
Two people that changed our world with one, single offering. But it was their offering of all.
Who's world would change if you asked God to help you give your all to your health? Maybe Your spouse? Your Kids? Maybe a friend who needs you to be all God intended you to be. Well, whoever comes to mind, just remember, it's not about perfection, but diligence. After all, "We don't have souls, we are souls. We have bodies." Clive Staples said that. But you know him better as C.S Lewis.
--Jimmy Peña
PRAYFIT: WEEK IN REVIEW
FAITH
>> Soreness in a Sermon: Hard intervals yield eternal results when we know who we represent
>> Work Backwards: Retrace your steps for a view of the cross to regain focus
>> Rattle Some Chains: Feeling captive? Maybe you're right where you should be
FITNESS
>> 28 Days: Want to get leaner, fitter, stronger and healthier in four weeks? This is your ticket
>> Accountability: 4 ways to start journaling for better, faster results
>> Protein: How this macronutrient rock star can help you build strength, lose fat
>> Fruits & Veggies: 2 ways to get more of 'em
LOOKING FOR CONVICTION?: Spend 3 minutes and 34 seconds finding it by clicking here.
AGREEMENT ISN'T ENOUGH
October 4, 2011Read: Exodus 3
"But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" --Exodus 3:11
I wonder if Moses ever went back to the place of the burning bush. Oh, I know it's doubtful, but for one of the pillars of our faith, that spot was a pivotal point in his life, and for yours and mine. But he didn't just agree there. He didn't concur with a sophisticated nod like he was looking at some priceless work of art. No, his body had to get him where his soul had to go. A simple agreement wasn't enough. And so with ashes still on his sandals, he marched through Pharaoh's front door to prove it.
What about you? Do you remember when you were called to task? For me, my soul was called in the 8th grade, then again in 2007 to blend faith with fitness. For you, maybe it was 10 years ago, or maybe even 10 minutes. But regardless, agreement isn't enough, especially when it comes to our health. Agreement is just the opportunity to prove it. So go back with Moses. Get close to the flame. Rub your hands together and get warm. You have your own Pharaohs to face. And when you do, imagine God as He nods, looking at you like a priceless work of art...because you are.
--J.P.
NUTRITION Q&A Addressing reader questions from the PrayFit inbox
Q: I noticed that on page 225 of the book "PrayFit: Your Guide to a Healthy Body and a Stronger Faith in 28 Days," there is a note to "add artificial sweetener if desired." Isn't that contrary to good health as artificial sweetener's are relatively "poison" and is a contributor to the obesity crisis? Shouldn't you be recommending honey or stevia?
--Mo, via e-mail
A: Honey provides fructose, which is fine is small amounts but honey is known to cause numerous health problems. Stevia is a pretty good alternative for sweeteners, but it too has research showing some concerns over its safety. The research on artificial sweeteners concludes that they are safe when used in moderation. My personal stance is to avoid these chemicals. However, we realize that some people do need a "sweet treat" every once in a while and we wanted to make the diet tolerable for them. If a diet is too limited in the foods you can eat most people will not stay on the diet. The PrayFit nutrition plan we developed was designed to help people create a lifestyle out of healthy eating, rather than giving a quick fix solution.
--Jim Stoppani, PhD, co-author of "PrayFit: Your Guide to a Healthy Body and a Stronger Faith in 28 Days"
>> Got a question for the PrayFit team? Send it to [email protected], or post it in our forums.
>> WATCH: Click on the player below for a peek at the official trailer for the PrayFit 33-Day Total Body Challenge by Lionsgate, due out December 6!