Since 2009
THE PRAYFIT DEVOTION
Now What?
"He has made everything beautiful in its time." —Ecclesiastes 3:11
Read: Ecclesiastes 3
Now what? Have you ever asked yourself that? If so, you're not alone. It may not comfort you to know that this ham-and-egg writer has asked himself that question many times, but a few others you'll recognize just might. Who comes to mind? Abraham when he reached the altar with Isaac, Moses when he reached the sea, or Joshua when they finally reached Jericho. The same question they whispered to themselves after being obedient was the same question Satan shouted when Jesus was on the cross: Now what?
In response, God left Heaven's hall for Bethlehem's stall. He then climbed out of his crib and onto the cross. He became the answer to our biggest question and our direst need. Are you facing a 'now what' moment? Maybe your health is taking a wrong turn or the job you wanted is already filled. Whatever you're dealing with, the next time you look up at the stars, think of Abraham. When you run into a sea of obstacles and walls too tall to climb, remember Moses and Joshua. Just like you, their question just before the miracle was 'now what?'
--Jimmy Peña
PRAYFIT SUCCESS STORY Team Prayfit wants to publicly recognize Roy Gonzalez, of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Roy describes himself as a Christian and family man. He says he's finally getting fit after 20 years of neglecting his health. He's a 49ers fan, a wannabe golfer, husband, dad, son, brother, and uncle. And one more thing...Roy has lost over 51 pounds since turning his health into praise with PrayFit. Congratulations, Roy! So blessed to know you. You inspire us all.
>> You can follow Roy on his journey at Twitter @RoyJr4753.
>> Got a success story of your own? We want to hear it! Share it with the PrayFit community by clicking here.
WORKOUT OF THE WEEK: PUSH-UPS AND PLANKS
If you're short on time, but long on enthusiasm, today's workout will meet both needs. No equipment required -- all you need is some open space and 5-10 minutes. Even if you had other plans for the day's workout, indulge us and give it a try anyway.
Plyo Push-Up: Akin to a normal push-up, this version requires you to have your hands leave the ground on each rep. The plyo push-up stimulates and innervates the fast-twitch fibers (the ones most responsible for tight, toned muscles). Upon failure -- the point at which you can no longer continue with good form -- go right into the...
Standard Push-Up: Do as many as you can. The push-up works the chest, front shoulders and triceps, not to mention your core musculature. Upon failure move right into a...
Straight-arm Plank: Basically, you're in the start of a push-up position with your arms straight, palms pressing into the floor, back straight and abs tight. Hold that position for as long as possible. When your arms begin to shake and fail, lower yourself to your elbows and begin the...
Standard Plank: Hold that position above the floor until failure. Like the straight-arm version, the plank works the innermost core muscles (transverse abdominis), the muscles that support your spine and ultimately your entire body.
After a brief rest, repeat that sequence. Chart your reps (or total time) for each exercise and strive to do better the next time you try this workout.
DROP IT
February 1, 2011Read: Exodus 4
"The Lord said, 'Throw it on the ground.' Moses threw it on the ground and it became a snake, and he ran from it." -- Exodus 4:3
Yesterday's quote of the week ended with a question: What will good health cost you? In fact, we believe that it's only when we see our health as an offering does that question make sense.
You know, Moses was reluctant to part with his staff, but when he finally laid it down in obedience, it became the rod of God. It wouldn't be long before Moses used it to part the Red Sea. Abraham was asked to lay down his own son upon the alter, and Peter was asked to lay down his nets after catching nothing all night.
Put simply, God is honored by what we're willing to lay down. What are you holding that's keeping you from living a healthier, more abundant life? Whatever it might be, just know that Moses, Abraham and Peter know first hand that it's alright to let go.
--J.P.
MAKE A LIST Wanting to take back your health? Are any of these things holding you back from spending more time having fun with your family in physical activity and games?
Television Computers (facebook, twitter) Ipods Cell Phones Work Friends
If what you're holding is or isn't on this list, ask God to help you prioritize your life so that your health is in line with what He intended for you. Then, begin making practical, daily steps to let go of those habits that keep you sedentary or occupied when you could be more active and healthy. If you need prayer in this area, let us know and we'd love to pray for you. Please go to our prayer request forum here on our website.
FEATURED WORKOUT JOURNALS:
AndrewBranson11: Day 1 of the PrayFit program
PrayFit El Paso: Our first official group getting serious in 2011!