We Can Take It

"We are well able to conquer it." --Numbers 13:30

Read: Numbers 13

Of the twelve spies to survey the promised land, the Bible says that only two came back positive that they'd be victorious with God's help. Two dream chasers. Two true believers. When everyone else was negative, these two were wide-eyed and hopeful. We can take it, they said. (You know how I am with a good theme.) Well, this week we're going to take a look at Joshua and Caleb and what it meant for them to stay faithful and true to what God had called them to do. Their story of courage is both spiritual and physical and one that I know we'll be able to apply to our daily lives. I hope you don't miss a day.

Speaking of chasing a dream, I'd like to show you something special. You'll recall way back in early January my #OneWord? Well, over the last few months, Loretta and I have been in discussions about something God placed on our hearts: A PrayFit Conference. An event that celebrates health with speakers, experts, preachers, an expo, food and music. A place where grace meets health and where faith and fitness collide. I'm too excited not to share this. We have approved the logo and have decided upon the city and month: Los Angeles in September will host PrayFit RISE.

I can't articulate what it means for me to be able to show you this logo. Suffice it to say that when God puts a dream in your heart, you fight for it. Thank you for the inspiration, Joshua and Caleb. Oh how we want to apply your kind of faith and courage in our lives. We can take it.

Have a good week, dreamers.

--Jimmy Peña

HEALTHY MOTIVATIONS FOR THE WEEK

Ahhh, Mondays. The good news is that each Monday can mark a renewal of health -- a time when we can recommit to eating better and moving more. Let's focus on the good news with these quick tips to keep us on the right path.

1 FOCUS ON DOING...MORE What's your activity of choice? Walking? Swimming laps? Dance? Lifting weights? Riding your bike? All good choices. But don't let yourself slip into the same old routine this week. Focus on doing a bit more to challenge your body. Go a little farther or a little faster. Take that extra lap or ride that extra mile. Add 1-2 reps to each set with the same weight, or add a few pounds to the bar. As Jimmy always reminds us, "The body will only change to the level at which we stress it." This week, add a little "stress" and watch your body respond in kind.

2 FOCUS ON FOOD TYPES Most of us fall into two camps when it comes to nutrition: counting calories or not caring about calories at all. Neither group is really right, but neither is really wrong either. Instead of focusing on quantity this week, shift your focus to quality. Getting a healthy mix of protein, carbs and healthy fats at each meal and snack will be far more valuable in the long run. Studies show that a balanced, 33-33-33 macronutrient (protein, carbs and fat) ratio can yield more positive health markers than other types of "diets." It also keeps you feeling fuller and provides plenty of activity for "doing more" this week (see tip No. 1).

3 FOCUS ON YOUR "WHY" The PrayFit team has been a part of a lot of "how to" when it comes to fitness. "The how is easy," Jimmy says. "The how can only take you so far. It's the why that is going to keep you that way." In other words, ask yourself each day why you are making an effort for better health. It could be your spouse, your friends or coworkers. It could be something as simple as the promise of walking your daughter down the aisle. Or maybe it's your recognition in the importance of better stewardship of the body you've been gifted. Whatever the case, remind yourself of your "why" each day -- set yourself a reminder, hang a Post-It, jot it in your journal or, if you're feeling bold, share it with us here.