No Wonder

"Know that the Lord is our God. It is he who made us and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." --Psalm 100:3 Read: Psalm 100

She should have been a carpenter. If it had been a priceless work of art, she wouldn't have put any more effort into it. Sitting on the kitchen floor, Loretta (who is the handyman in the family), measured, marked and re-measured to make sure the new kitchen hardware was going to be centered perfectly. Of course, I "eyeballed it" and knew everything would be even, but that wasn't good enough. No sir. She even made me hold the tools as she steadied the level. But you can't blame her. After all, these were her cabinets for a room where we spend the most time and have have so much fun.

Putting my arm around her, I kissed the side of her head as we surveyed her work. In that moment, I wondered if this is how we should be treating our time, resources and our health. Our gifts deserve more than an "eyeballing" but rather a genuine care and concern, amen? Of course, not to boast in our possessions or to gloat about how "fit" we are, but all because of the One who made us.

"Fearfully." "Wonderfully." "Knit together." "Formed." "Created". These are just a few of the ways the bible describes how God lovingly built us. Just imagine Him with a level as He designed our souls with integrity. Picture it as He wipes the dust from our rough edges, smoothing tempers and molding character. It's no wonder He chose to be a carpenter. We're a masterpiece that He signed with His blood and framed with a body; what a privilege He's given us to care for His work.

--Jimmy Peña

PrayFit RISE Conference Update: So yesterday we wrapped our first video for the new PrayFit App coming to iTunes soon. Neat stuff. So blessed. (And my chocolate lab "The Outlaw Ms. Josey Wales" steals the show!)

Anyway, the team is about to post a job opening for us, and I wanted to raise the praise here first. Los Angeles will be the spot for the first PrayFit Rise Conference; a celebration of grace, faith, fitness, food and more! Preachers, world-renowned speakers, dietitians, fitness experts, and one of my favorite Christian bands will be on-hand at PrayFit Rise to close-out the night. So neat.

As far as the job opening, the team is looking for a sales expert in the Los Angeles area with a heart for the Lord and a mind for sales & sponsorships. Interested individuals can email resumes and cover letters to [email protected] for more details. Neat huh? Anyone ready to come to PrayFit Rise? Hope so. And if not, I know you'll pray for us. Details will be on the app and on the site real soon. Thanks everyone. Live Jesus, in our hearts forever.

Forgive Us, The Body

Lord, forgive us for spending so much time trying to honor the body that we actually fail to honor you with it. Forgive us for not taking care of our body to the point that we fail to physically accomplish what you designed for us to do; serve others, live exceptionally, and much, much more.

Forgive us for worrying about what others see and how we compare to the fitness magazines that we forget that you love us and see yourself in us. It's you we want to mirror.

Forgive us for forgetting that when you said “Go” to the disciples, you said the same to us. It's still a call to action. It's tough to serve our community from the couch.

Forgive us for putting so much emphasis on planning and preparing what we eat before we train - fast-digesting protein and slow-digesting carbs - that we’d rather stuff a quick verse down our throat - at best - so we don’t miss the gym.

Forgive us for living in either a vanity-driven paranoia or a stale state of gluttony.

Forgive us for forgetting that even though life is not about the body, it's not just any body. It's yours.

Forgive us - the body of Christ - for forgetting that our health is our means of praise. That our health is a gift of grace.

Help us Lord. May we all recalibrate WHY our health is important to YOU, the source of this perfectly-designed, wonderfully made, grace-filled, small, weak and failing, temporary, awesome gift of life. Amen. - Jimmy Peña

Prayer Request Update: Guys, yesterday there was an outpouring of prayer requests and needs. If you have time, please help us go through and pray for others. Health struggles and more. Thanks everyone.

Hidden Valleys

On our drive home down Highway 1 this weekend, we happened upon a neat scene. As we came around a bend, we noticed a few dozen cars stopped on the side of the road. Doors open, people standing and taking pictures. They weren't looking toward the water, but rather toward a beautiful, hidden valley. Something out of the ordinary had caught their attention. Turning to catch a glimpse myself, I too had to pull over for a peek at a beautiful herd of...zebras...that had made their way to the road. Never know what you'll find in a hidden valley.

Makes me wonder, anyone familiar with Christian artist Steve Green? He may be a little old school for some of us, but Steve sang a great song that Loretta and I were immediately reminded of and began to sing in the truck as we drove away. The words will cut right to the heart for some of you today.

In a hidden valley just over the hill. A young shepherd boy surrenders his will. As he lifts his voice in praise to his king, only the lambs will hear and follow as he sings.

In a hidden valley, a faithful one leads. No one looking on, he cares for their needs. For he knows the One who tries the heart. So he is steadfast and content to do his part.

Hidden valleys produce a life song. Hidden valleys will make a heart strong. Desperation can cause you to sing. Hidden valleys turn shepherds to kings.

Guys, the Lord only knows what some of you are going through today. Illness, tragedy, hurts, loneliness, fear, and yes, perhaps even desperation.  With a humble heart, I want you to know that I care, that I know it's tough, and that I'm praying for you today. Even though the world may not stop to notice or care - to God - hidden valleys are in plain sight. Jimmy Peña

Prayer Requests: Hidden valleys produce a life song. Think of that phrase for a minute. If you're in a valley or know someone who is, please mention your request in the comments section. If you'd rather not be specific, simply write "Unspoken" and we promise to lift your name in prayer.

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Deep Calling

"You are the salt of the earth...Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven." - Matthew 5:13-16 This weekend Loretta and I took a short drive up the coast to visit some friends in Carmel, Ca. If the phrase "God's Country" ever applied, it's there. We always love seeing Carmel, and we've determined that if we ever move cities, Carmel awaits. The only thing better than the view was the couple we were there to visit. Mike and Sima Saeidi. A former colleague of mine in the hospitality industry, Mike and his wife Sima are some of our closest friends. If the phrase, "Salt of the Earth" ever applied, it's to them.

Speaking of salt, one afternoon we toured their resort in Carmel and on the grounds they have an actual salt house. It's the neatest thing. They harvest the resort's salt directly from the waters of Monterey Bay. And something I read made me think of all of you. In order to farm the salt, the salt company "heads out about a mile into the deeper, hallowed waters of the Bay where the water is pure and fresh."

Friends, isn't that the goal each day for our lives, work and health? To go deep? It's deep into God's word and deep on our knees in prayer, and deep into our perspective of the body where we find real, lasting meaning. Shallow is easy. And quick. And popular. But we're called to a deeper love. Peter wasn't called out of the boat where his feet could touch the bottom, and neither are we. In order to be God's salt of the earth in this industry or any industry, we know where to go, the gospel. Where water is pure and fresh. Let's have a good week. Jimmy Peña

Carmel In Pictures I likely have a week's worth of entries in my head from all we saw on our quick trip. Just take a look at these images.

God's Will and Good Health

I have a long list of goals. Wanna hear a few of them? Ok, here goes. In no particular order -- and before I turn 50 -- my goals are 1) to become fluent in Spanish 2) memorize the New Testament 3) learn to play the piano 4) visit Bethlehem and 5) be able to do a handstand. Do you like my odds? Please, no bets on the handstand. Give me a hand for just standing! But when you read some of my life's objectives, what do they all require? Any common denominators? I can think of two: God's will and my health. I am nothing without either. But I love to imagine what all I could do with God's blessing of a plan and His blessing of good health to see it through. Wow. The idea literally makes my heart pound. Friends, I'm convinced that the only two solitary and pivotal elements any believer needs when it comes to their goals are God's will and health.

What do you need your health to help you see and do? (Don't hold back, I want to know.) Be around for your daughter's wedding? Someone with special needs who needs you the most? Hand bibles out in uncharted territories? Goals. Of course, we celebrate the byproducts of obedience like healthier weight, blood pressure, clear lungs, but if God allows those things, don't dare stop there. What are your goals? Let's get together and pray for God's will and wisdom. And then plan. Let's plan away. Get on your knees, and with God's help, deliver an unwavering commitment to put your health on that mission.

–Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: What swing-for-the-fence dreams do you have? If it were God's will, what makes your heart pound? Please give us your short list. Etched on your heart is part of your purpose. What is it?

King of My Heart

Happy Friday everyone. Cool week. I actually spent the better part of yesterday shooting video for the new PrayFit App that will hit the iTunes store very soon. Whew. We're so excited. Aren't you? You'll be able to receive the daily, get recipes, training, videos, tips, an audio Bible and more, all through the app. So blessed. Hope you enjoy it. Below is a pic of me behind the scenes. Handsome, huh? Well, following the shoot I was pretty whipped. Came home and downloaded a great new song called "King of My Heart" by the group Love & The Outcome. It hit the spot. Please allow this to be both the entry and the words that you recite and repeat throughout your Friday. It's sweet and strong.

"I'm in a war every minute. I know for sure I'll never win it. I am David up against Goliath. It's the fight for my attention. I'm being pulled in every direction. This world tells me just what I can see. Lord won't you help me believe what I believe. Cause YOU are: Bigger than any battle I'm facing. Better than anything I've been chasing. Savior in royalty. The only hope for me. Jesus you are - you are - the King of my heart. Rule in me."

Amen? So grateful for your faithfulness and encouragement. I hope that you are healthy in body and strong in spirit from what you see and read here at PrayFit. You're why I'm here! Jimmy

FAMILY CIRCLE: If I can ask a favor of you, please share our social networks with your friends online. That would bless me so much. Have a great weekend. See you Monday. Facebook Twitter Instagram

He Was Workin'

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:17 Yesterday afternoon I had a missionary in my living room, and he was workin'. His name was Jonathan, and he had come to share what he had planned for his trip and he needed money to do so. So excited. You couldn't tell where one sentence ended and the next one began. The guy was on fire for the Lord. But he was distracted, see. What I mean is, he wasn't alone. His boss had him preoccupied. Maybe I should back up.

Last week a company that was supposed to steam clean the carpet on our staircase didn't show up. Twice. So Loretta called a different company and thankfully, the doorbell rang. When the two men arrived, both went right to work. Sort of. The older of the two started prepping the staircase and preparing the carpet. But the younger one was busy looking at my bookshelf. And as sure as I'm sitting here, the first words out of his mouth were, "How long have you been a Christian?"

First off, I was pretty busy yesterday getting ready for a photo shoot. In fact, today when many of you are reading this entry I'll be in front of the camera filming some footage for the new PrayFit app. Gonna be neat when it all comes together. And honestly, the arrival of this carpet company wasn't in my best interest. I mean, I'm busy working for the Lord after all! And then...

"How long have you been a Christian?" (So long busyness. Goodbye high horse.) I shared my testimony and he shared his. It was some neat scene. While his boss barked orders, this young man with his name on his shirt joyfully went about his business while explaining how he tried to run from God for almost all of his 22 years. But in his words, "God kept pursuing me until finally I accepted Him. I clean carpets to help me make money for the mission field."

Like I said, I had a missionary in my living room yesterday and he was workin'.

Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: We sure can get busy right? Even so busy doing the Lord's work that we forget to do His work. Even when it comes to health. I've said it before, but we have to be careful not to get so caught up in caring for the body that we forget to Honor God with it. Yesterday, like many of you, I said "Amen" about being a disciple of Jesus, and well, that sweet kid was acting like one.

Fellowship of the Unashamed

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel..." - Romans 1:16

"I'm a part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit power. I've stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past redeemed, my present makes sense, my future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, worldly-talking, cheap-giving, and dwarf goals. I no longer need pre-eminence, position, promotion, applause, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience. I am uplifted by prayer and labour in power. My pace is set. My gait is fast. My goal is Heaven. My road is narrow. My way is rough. My companions are few. My God reliable. My mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of my adversaries, negotiate at the table of my enemy, or ponder at the pool of popularity. I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I've stayed up, stored up, prayed up, preached up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ." -Worth Dying For, Infiltrate

For Discussion: Who is fired-up to face the day? An "amen" in the comment section would be a nice battle cry.

FAMILY CIRCLE: Hey everyone, thank you so much for your faithful reading. Do me a favor and please follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Tell your friends and family too! (Many of you may remember this old entry.) Facebook Twitter Instagram

A Life Worked Out

"What I’m getting at, friends, is that you should simply keep on doing what you’ve done from the beginning...Better yet, redouble your efforts. Be energetic in your life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before God. That energy is God's energy, an energy deep within you, God himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure."Philippians 2:12-18 (version: the msg) Dr. Charles Stanley said a few years ago, "There's no name that carries more quality, none more Heavenly, or has the power and the energy than the name of Jesus." He went on to say that those who claim Jesus as Savior must also claim Him as Lord of their lives; as the Boss. Because, "Jesus" he continued,  "has the right to call every single play in our lives." Wow. I can't have Him as Savior of my soul and not the Lord in charge of my life.

In Philippians 2:12, Paul says, "...work out your salvation with fear and trembling." He wasn't talking about working their way to Heaven through works, but he was talking about living a life worthy of the calling after salvation. In other words, Jesus is Savior, make sure He's Lord. Work it out. What a powerful passage (the message Bible has a wonderful interpretation, part of which I included above, and I challenge you to read it.)

1stRow

You know, I've been taking my training up a notch as you all know, trying new things, and this weekend I began using free weights again. And I show this pic because I have a new back, and I'm working it out for the first time in a couple years (yes, with fear and trembling even with a little 8-pound dumbbell.) But it requires of me a different lifestyle. The kind of weight that I lift or the modified way I get around these days sends a message to those around me. Something is different. There's a reason why I do the things I do.

The message? By grace we have Heaven, and our message to those around us on earth needs to be that we're looking forward to it. That we're working it out. Are we forgiving, loving, showing grace, helping, serving, being stewards? What did Paul say? "Be energetic in your life of salvation." Indeed the Christian life is a life worked out.

For Discussion: Isn't grace good? We can't budge it. It crashes down on us and puts our little faith to work with whatever we have. Who's working life out today?

WorkItOut

Health is a Season

Hey gang, on February 27, I asked you to pray for my buddy's mom, Gail. Here was the email to me from her son Doug. Hey Jimmy, I hope this email finds you doing well. Going to cut right to it... My dad took my mom into ER over the weekend, a CT and X-ray later = pancreatic cancer. Never saw it coming, healthy woman. Words cannot describe what we're experiencing as a family, let alone my mother. Lab results are expected in the next 2-3 days. We'll have an idea of game plan once we see the lab results and what stage she is in. Her tumor, 2-3 centimeters, is on the tip of the pancreas. Her name is Gail, in all honesty - she is my best friend. To say we're close is an understatement. Can you please pray for her, and feel free to forward my request to anyone else in your network... -Doug

A countless number of you reached out with comments and emails, prayers and messages of hope. I want you to know that they all reached Doug, and he and his family read each one of your comments to her at her bedside. Well, Gail isn't hurting anymore. On Saturday, Loretta and I attended a beautiful memorial service and celebration of a life well-lived. She had Jesus in her heart and wasn't shy about it. She was married 46 years and had a beautiful family of kids, grandkids and a whole lot of friends that loved her.

As they passed the mic around the crowded church so people could tell a quick story of Gail, one theme kept coming up. See, Gail spent 25 years as a manicurist/pedicurist, and most of the people she shared Christ with were people whose hands she held and whose feet she washed. What a testimony. Way to go, Gail. Washing feet, talking about Jesus.

-Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Oh friends, health - like life - is a season. Here today, gone tomorrow. That heartbeat you just had? God gave you that. What will you do with the next one He gives? Today and all week long, make a point to live like there's no tomorrow. Share Christ, be healthy, work hard, kiss people, laugh and love. Health is a gift; open daily. Who's with me?

Full Attention

Jeremy Riddle sings a great song for us on a Friday that fits nicely in our week's theme. It's called "Full Attention." It goes:

May your voice be louder, May your voice be clearer than all the others in my life. May your face be dearer. May your words be sweeter than all the others in my life. Please keep my eyes fixed on You. Please root my heart so deep in You. Keep me abiding that I may bear fruit.

This has been a neat week looking at Biblical moments of delight. Times when men and women found flowers in their sidewalk, and it was a blessing to read your sightings as well. Thank you.

You know, finding flowers in the sidewalk is also tough to see - at least for me - during daily moments of my disobedience; plenty of examples for us in God's Word too. It's Jonah in the belly. It's Peter listening to a rooster. It's David after Bathsheba, and it's Adam after that bite. It's the moment we encounter a bloom the moment we deserve doom. But as much as it hurts and convicts, it's also a reminder of the comfort of grace, amen? Our obedience doesn't merit grace, and our disobedience doesn't mute it. Don't look, but here comes the Son.

So as we end the week, let's do a collective face-plant into the very pavement we've been treading on this week. And as we turn our heads to the side, find that flower rising from that impossible place. (Bloom). The one that shouldn't be there. (Bloom). The one with no soil and no chance. The one representing delight. (Bloom). Let everything else behind it simply blur out of focus. See it? Good. Give it your full attention. And whether you're hugging cement out of delight or despair or both, you have the perfect posture. Stay here as long as you like or as long as it takes. When you're ready, just take a deep breath, and as you exhale, say, "Grace."

Jimmy Peña

UNCOVERED The PrayFit Diet, original cover.

Just came across the raw cover of my latest book, The PrayFit Diet. Overwhelmed by the feedback from around the world. An Amazon and Barnes & Noble Hottest Hit, it's been a refreshing resource of grace, perspective and triumph, as well as a teaching tool for balanced eating (recipes designed by Dana Angelo White, dietitian and culinary expert at The Food Network.)

And don't worry about the word "diet" because a diet is simply the food we eat. If we ate food today, we have a diet. I just believe in a balanced plate. Plus, God's grace frees me from being timid or afraid of the word, so it's all good yo!

Friends, this is my 7th book project, but I admit, it's my favorite. It's available everywhere books are sold - thanks to my amazing publisher, Simon & Schuster - so I hope you pick one up for yourself or someone you love.

Green Thumbs and Grace

I admit, I have no green thumb. Put the care and well-being of a well-nourished, deeply-rooted, fully-watered plant in my hands and you can bet it won't end well. Where my wife talks to each plant and encourages, I scowl and demand. Well, in a week looking at moments in the lives of believers - "flowers bursting through the sidewalk" - each instance required God's grace and aren't we glad! Take your Bible and flip through chapter after chapter at moments like we've discussed and you'll find God doing the...the doing, the planting, watering, growing; even in the most unexpected of places. It's Moses watching the waters part and Daniel petting a hungry lion. It's a trembling army hoisting young David on its collective shoulders and Peter needing help with nets full of fish. It's a lame man walking out of the same house he was carried into and the woman at the well never being thirsty again. It's John seeing the future and it's God forgetting our past. Need I go on?

You know, when it comes to our health and well-being, the Bible says we're quickly fading. But for now, we can join the frontrunners of our faith in those faith-fortifying, heart-pounding, eye-popping, head-scratching moments of growth through grace. Funny, I have no green thumb for plants or even for my own well-nourished life. Left in my hands, I won't end well. Fortunately, God made me, makes me, fills me with grace and wants me to bloom for a minute. And He wants the same for you. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: I hope that in your busy days and weeks - and as often as you get the chance to check in here at PrayFit - you find good glimmers of hope for your health and life. Anyone have any praises to share? Love to hear from you.

Easy To Miss

"He asked them, 'What are you discussing together as you walk along?'"  --Luke 24:17Read: Luke 24

In keeping with our theme of the week, notice any flowers in this sidewalk?

Just imagine those two disciples walking toward Emmaus together. It was late in the day, their heads hung low as they kicked-up dust with each reminiscent step. After minutes of silence, one would remember something Jesus said, bringing a grin to both their faces. After all, these two heard and saw things not written in the Bible.

After another quiet mile or so, the other would bring up "that time when," and the two would smile, shake their heads, laugh and cry. Who would blame them? They missed their friend. Not the miracle maker or the water-walker, but just Jesus. The same Jesus who would tell a good joke at night, sending all the guys to bed laughing. And the same Jesus that listened to their stories with the anticipation of one who didn't already know the ending. Jesus was easy to miss. Even when He was walking right next to you.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Imagine the moment. They had no idea what had bloomed along the way, piercing their darkness. Question: Have you seen Jesus this week? Maybe in the doctor that gave you the news of your blood sugar? Perhaps it was the homeless man who wanted nothing more than for you to look him in the eye and smile? Friends, Jesus may not walk beside us like He did on the road to Emmaus, but He walks among us. He breaks through the pavement of school, work or the gym, piercing our darkness. Let's remind each other not to miss Him, because it's easy to do when we're not looking.

FAMILY CIRCLE: Social networks are like our extended digital family and we'd like to invite you to invite others! So "like," "join," "tweet" and "watch" PrayFit through our various channels. Click the links below to get plugged in with the rest of the PrayFit community in 2014!

Facebook Twitter Instagram THINK ETERNITY For those who may have missed my plea yesterday, I want you to know about my friend Matt Brown, founder of Think Eternity. He and his wife Michelle are impacting thousands of people with the gospel each year through live events and online. Their speaking ministry has taken them to the ends of the earth, and thousands of people have trusted in Christ as a result of their ministry. They also minister to a quarter million followers on social media daily.

Guys, please do me an enormous favor and follow him. Such godly wisdom, all things Gospel and grace. He's on Twitter @evangelistmatt and @Thinke and on Facebook. He has a new book hitting next year and his latest book, Revolutionaries, is a free e-book that I've recently downloaded. Please get it! Here's the link. It's free and powerful.

The One Who Doesn't Count

"They all ate and were satisfied." --Mark 6:42 Read: Mark 6:30-39

When the crowds grew hungry, can't you just see the disciples on their tip-toes counting heads? I wonder what number they reached before they realized they were outnumbered? But just to be sure, they decided to count inventory of the basket. "Two, three, four...nope, we're sure of it. Five loaves, two fish."

If you're like me, depending on the day, you've been both the worried disciple and the hungry crowd. In either case, the only one we can ever count on is the only one not counting. But some days, I feel like the young boy don't you? Imagine him for a second. Little did he know that when his mom packed his bag that morning, he would literally hand it to God.

And while we don't hear the disciples say, "Thanks kid!" or "Glad you didn't come empty-handed, son," I like to imagine that after he got squeezed between the disciples and pushed to the back of the crowd, he found a nice spot on the hill with a good view. Grinning, he put his chin in his hands and watched God make a miracle out of his lunch.

We never know what the day has in store, but we do know what we bring to the day, spiritually and physically. (Let's remember to bring it.) And while we may not get applause, make sure to stick around to watch God do what only He can do with your life, and be sure to save me a seat.

And oh, did you notice the verse?: "They all ate."

You never know, maybe the boy grinned with his mouth full, and maybe Jesus Himself brought the little guy his meal. But what we do know for certain is that our work never goes unnoticed -- at least not by the one who doesn't count.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: During a week of finding flowers in the sidewalk, I thought this story was a good fit. Anyone agree? Talk about delight, right? God using a lunch. One meal became a feast for thousands. Anything else in this story find its way through the pavement for you? I think I see something blooming.

THINK ETERNITY Hey everyone, I've mentioned him before but I can't speak highly enough about my friend Matt Brown, founder of Think Eternity. He and his wife Michelle are impacting thousands of people with the gospel each year through live events and online. Their speaking ministry has taken them to the ends of the earth, and thousands of people have trusted in Christ as a result of their ministry. They also minister to a quarter million followers on social media daily.

Guys, please do me an enormous favor and follow him. Such godly wisdom, all things Gospel and grace. He's on Twitter @evangelistmatt and @Thinke and on Facebook. He has a new book hitting next year and his latest book, Revolutionaries, is a free e-book that I've recently downloaded. Please get it! Here's the link. It's free and powerful.

A Flower in the Sidewalk

Hope everyone had a great weekend celebrating freedom. We sure did. Here's a picture of me before we went to Malibu for fun and fireworks.Notice my vintage PrayFit USA t-shirt. Gotta support the team. But it was a neat holiday. I'd call it delightful.

You know, we don't use the word "delight" as often as we might, but Max Lucado once wrote, "Delight is hope where you least expected it: a flower in life’s sidewalk."

Or in my case, the sand.

A year ago, I was a month out of my latest spine reconstruction, but I just had to get out of the house. I figured, what better place to go than the beach? But when we got to the coast, I couldn't make it to the water. A few steps into the sand and I knew right away it was too unstable. I wasn't ready. But a year later, a flower in life's sidewalk.

Not only did we go to the beach, but I helped carry our things! Folding chairs? I got em. Small cooler filled with the "Jimmy Special fiber shake"? Got that too. Mentally working to draw in my core, I enjoyed the subtle work required to stabilize my body as I walked through the sand. An insurmountable obstacle a year ago was now a training tool. Standing with my wife as the water rushed over our feet? Delightful.

This week, let's take a look at a few Biblical examples of men and women with those kinds of moments. Times when God took commonplace to another place. Routine to ridiculous. Mundane to miracles.  I hope what you see and read puts a skip in your step as you make your way down your sidewalk. Hopefully you come across a flower or two. Jimmy Peña

TALK ABOUT DELIGHT-FULL! We have a big God who loves us and takes care of us. He has to! We're too small to do life alone. And that smallness needs to be celebrated. Your mission - should you choose to accept it - is to rejoice this week in your absolute dependence on the Lord. Are you down? I mean, are you ready to feel really, really small and dependent? (Because we are really, really small and really dependent. And that's a good thing!)

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Stubborn Joy

Stubborn joy. Probably not the way you'd expect me to describe my new friends from last week, but I can assure you it fits. As I sat in chapel service awaiting my chance to speak, it occurred to me that I have never been around a more defying group. Mind you, there are no pews to sit on and no chairs to recline in; not in this cafeteria-turned-chapel. But please follow me around the room. In the back row, a husband and wife hold hands; Lord only knows how many times their fingers have interlocked. Next to them, a sweet frail woman accompanies the piano with an old tambourine; I can imagine what music has meant to her. And then standing in front of them, the Chaplain. Throat cancer survivor and widower. Yeah, it fits. Amidst the wheelchairs and the rolling beds it was easy for me to understand why Sarah laughed at God the way she did. Or for that matter, why the older men holding the judging stones were first to leave the courtyard. I suppose if you live long enough, the more opportunities you have to be surprised by God's grace or reminded of His mercy.

Well, I got through my short message and took my seat again. The life they've lived and what all God has seen them through, I'll never know; a century's worth of celebrations, triumphs, disappointments and pitfalls perhaps. But in closing we took our hymnals and began singing with gladness and tears hymn #26, "It is Well with My Soul" and #18 "Count Your Blessings." Songs that - when preceded by a lifetime - are sung with stubborn joy. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: I want that kind of joy. The kind that looks pain in the face and winks. What about you?

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More Power To You

More power to you, were the words he said that stuck with me. Something tells me he meant it. Yeah, like I said yesterday, I have someone for you to meet. Everyone, say hi to Jim. This pic was taken during one of our walks, although Jim wasn't on the walk with the rest of the group. No, having found a good spot on one of the benches along the path, he was simply sitting there. So I strayed from the group to snap this shot with my buddy. But let me back up. Jim and I met the day before in the lobby of the assisted living building. With the heavy use of a cane, he slowly walked up to me and we were introduced. Strong hands, kind eyes and the sweetest spirit you've ever encountered. His clothes fell on him as if they once draped a much bigger man. His belt was cinched up, creating folds in his pants. I imagine he used to be pretty tall. Nice to meet you sir, I said.

When they told him the purpose of my arrival, he smiled and said, "Well, God is good." Then I suppose for my benefit, they asked him if he still goes to the fitness center everyday, and his response sent a lump to my throat. "No," he said. Looking down toward the floor and shaking his head, he softly grinned and said, "Not anymore. But I wake up at 3:00 every morning - that's just what happens - and I do my exercises in bed. I'll do bicycles with my legs, try my push-ups, work my stomach and I'll move my arms."

Yeah, we were fast friends. God IS good. As we shook hands to say goodbye, he said the very same thing that he'd say right after we took this pic, "Well son, more power to you." Something tells me he meant it. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: It's funny, I was there to encourage them, but I'm pretty sure it was the other way around. Guys, my Mom sent me this poem yesterday, and I think of Jim as I read it. Maybe you have someone on your mind. Someone who's health is failing but their heart for the Lord, life and giving their all is as strong as ever. If so, read along and share your thoughts:

Every morning when I wake Every night before I rest I do the kind of exercise that suits my lifestyle best. I can do my kind of workout almost anywhere I please Standing, sitting, lying down Or even on my knees. It doesn't take a lot of time But pays off every day For my favorite kind of exercise Is just to stop and pray. -Author Unknown

Tell Me The Old, Old Story

Preparing for my trip to San Diego last week, I was at a loss. No matter what or who came to mind Biblically, I couldn't avoid one daunting question: Who am I? I've had the honor of speaking to churches, expos, conventions, colleges, but this was different. The crumbled up sheets of paper around my wastepaper basket were evidence that I was struggling with what I was going to say. As it turns out, the question I couldn't seem to ignore was the right one. Who am I?...I asked each sweet room. Who am I to be invited to stand in your presence? And that wasn't simply a man's attempt at showing respect - even though I hope it came across that way - but there was so much wisdom and experience across the Covenant Village campus, I literally felt appropriately inappropriate. But alas, I answered my own question by saying to them that I hope I'm an encouragement. I'm simply here to applaud. Who am I? I'm following your lead.

There were three populations I was able to spend time with while I was there. The independent living, assisted living and then those with special needs and 24-hour care. Some chapel services, group exercise classes, one-one-one discussions. Suffice it to say that I didn't get through any of the events without losing my wits. Well, with the exception of the smoothie demo. No tears there. Just delicious ingredients and happy tummies. Here's a shot I took as the crowd started arriving. Four smoothie recipes, all hits. (Especially the "Jimmy Special.")

But a moment that occurred later that day served as a thunderous downbeat of the drum for me; like that part in a movie where the underdog realizes what he has to do. During a group walk across the beautiful campus, I was spending a few moments walking with certain folks, then I'd slow down or speed up to talk to others. And as I came up behind one couple of friends (both over 90 years old) I overheard one sincerely say to the other, "Whew, I gotta get back into shape." Oh my soul. Tell me the old, old story. This is me applauding. This is me, following your lead. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Ever been in a situation where you just didn't know what to say and the Lord just gives you the right words? I want to thank all of you for praying for me. What a time. It's never too late to make an impact. I know because the impact made was on me. Tomorrow I'll introduce you to somebody pretty cool. His name is Jim. My buddy. I loved him right away. We were fast friends.

The Jimmy Special Smoothie: The big hit of the smoothie demo I mentioned was my personal shake; the one I hit twice a day. Here's the recipe. And any blender will do but I happen to use a Nutribullet. If you try it, let me know what you think. Ingredients 1.5 cups fresh spinach 1 tablespoon flax seed 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter Mixed fruit (banana, strawberry, mango) 2 cups coconut water 1 scoop soy protein (feel free to use your WHEY protein if need be.) 1 cup cold water

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Absolute Abundance & Radical Humility

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever."--Hebrews 13:8Read: Hebrews 13

There's a great scene in the classic movie Hoosiers where the aging coach, portrayed by Gene Hackman, leads his young team onto an empty court hours before the state championship. The intimidating arena was something the young team from Hickory had never dreamed of, let alone seen.

As the team's collective jaw dropped at the enormity of the venue, Coach quietly took out a tape measure to determine the distance from the basket down to the floor. With the team huddled around him, Coach revealed that the measurements matched those of their humble court back home, and the kids quickly realized the lesson: No matter how daunting or unexpected the surroundings, the standards of the game remain the same.

As we wake up the dawn of Monday, let's measure it. When we evaluate our life and health against God's word, we're guided -- some toward better habits of stewardship and others toward less self-admiration. Dr. Charles Stanley says, "One of Satan's strategies is to get our minds so occupied with peripheral concerns that we compromise our reliance upon Christ." You know, some fitness-minded believers are so caught up in how they look that they never see the battlefield. And some believers have neglected their health so much that they can't reach it.

Well, it's Monday -- a perfect chance to measure out the day against life's only true standard which is God's Word. When we do, our collective jaw will drop because none of us measures up. God is too good, too big, and too incredible for us to either sit idle or to be full of ourselves. Let's determine today that we will play the game of life with absolute abundance and radical humility.

--Jimmy Peña

Question: What changes will you make this week to bring your life and health into alignment with God's word? Isn't it comforting to know that God never changes?

SAN DIEGO RECAP: Guys, I had such a sweet time last week in San Diego, and I can't wait to share with you some of those stories this week. I hope you'll be blessed.

THE PRAYFIT APP: We're knee-deep into the thick of our new app, and we can't express our excitement. Be on the lookout for news and updates about the PrayFit App launch!

FAMILY CIRCLE: Please find us on social media and share us with your friends and family! Facebook Twitter Instagram

PrayFit on the Road

Ever been in an auditorium or arena after a concert or event? The chairs get stacked, everything gets cleaned up, and the lights start going out. Kinda gets quiet. That is, until next time the stage is set. After our week of talking about the Lord, His stage, and our place in the show, Friday kind of feels like that. Probably more so, because I'm traveling next week to speak in San Diego over a few days. I'll be visiting a Christian retirement community, delivering messages to various groups; from fitness topics, to food lectures, as well as talking "Health Through the Gospel's Lens" in a few chapel services. And if I can confess a heavy heart, I will be talking to those with very special needs and infirmities. I'm told many of them aren't able to walk. It goes without saying, but I covet your prayers as I talk to these sweet people. For their hearts and lives, my words and messages, and that God will be glorified above all. I promise to be updating social media on occasion throughout the week, but as far as devotions, our next one will be a week from Monday, June 30th.

And as we often do on Friday's, let's pray for each other. List your request in the comments section, and I and many others will lift your name up in prayer. If you'd rather not be specific, simply write "unspoken."

You know guys, we don't fill auditoriums or pack arenas, but each word we type and every thought we write is an anthem. And the fact that you join in the chorus each week means the world to me. Thank you for your faithfulness, your time and your prayers for me and each other. Much love. I'll see you in a week. If someone could get the lights... Jimmy Peña

Rehab/Training Update: Let me raise a praise. Here I am doing standard push-ups for reps yesterday. I graduated from modified (from the knees) push-ups. Health is a gift; one you fight for. Whatever He gives us by His grace, we honor Him with it. FAMILY CIRCLE: If you're not already following me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, please do! I promise to share more as I travel to keep everyone updated. Facebook Twitter Instagram