Dreams Can Mean The Pits

"You intended to harm me, but God meant it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." --Genesis 50:20 Left out, left behind, left for dead. I mentioned yesterday that dreams often mean the pits, well, here's one example. Joseph could do no wrong in his father's eyes, so his big brothers squinted theirs. After hearing Joseph's dream, his brothers took him for a long walk off a short pier. The next thing this favorite son knew, he was lying in a pit, listening to the sound of clanging silver in exchange for his life. Before long, he was in a foreign land full of foreign faces that spoke a foreign language.

Like I said yesterday, when I watched Joe Weider struggle down that hallway, the wheels began turning in my mind. Actually, it was more like a crank being wound inside my heart. And each week it would tighten and ache. Well, on a Friday in 2009, a spiraling economy forced downsizing and before I knew it I was in the pit of unemployment. There I was looking up with a box of memories in one hand and a fake, potted plant in the other.

The Monday after my layoff, I started writing this blog. It turns out you can do a lot of work in the pit. I began clumsily trying to convey what my heart had been dying to say. See, over the previous 12 years, every article I wrote about leg training, strength or endurance, I saw as an opportunity for a Biblical lesson. I now had my chance, and I was serious. But the 1,250 devotions since don't prove how serious I took the dream, they merely expose the truth that when God places something on your heart, you fight for it.

Your boss gives the promotion to the one who sleeps in his cubicle. Keep dreaming. Someone else gets the credit for the work you did on the school group project. Keep dreaming. Or God has placed something on your heart you can no longer ignore. Keep DREAMING. We may not be shipped off to another country, but we sure do know our way around the pits. But a neat thing about young Joseph is that although the breaks got rough, they didn't break him. He knew his dream was divine. So he made good. Learned the language, made friends, stayed focused. It wasn't long until the king alone out-ranked him.

Joseph's story is unavoidable and one I thought was perfect again for "Dream Week." Because of a dream, Joseph went from pit to prime minister. Despite his circumstances, Joseph honed his unique, God-given gift. Everything around him might have been foreign, but the same God he knew at home was the same God in the pit and the same God in Egypt. So he resolved to cling to his dreams, literally, because what some people mean for bad, God can make great. Written off in chapter one, his rough start made for one great conclusion.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: What do you love about the story of Joseph? The fact he stayed his course before and during his time in the pit? Or for what he did when he got to Egypt? What can his faithfulness and forgiveness teach us about our lives, our health, our perspective? Do you feel like you need a tighter grip on your dreams? Is something inspiring cranking away inside your chest? Like Joseph, will you share it and leave the consequences to God? Anything we can all pray about together?

Today, Dream

Jesus, You Are MyAll In All. Happy Monday everyone. Hope you had a good weekend. We did. Yesterday I took Loretta to the beach so she could celebrate her birthday. Fun times. We love going to the water as often as possible. Seems it's where we do our best dreaming. Pursuing God's best for our lives and living that dream is our week's theme. Hope you check-in each day. I'll want your feedback as well as the opportunity to let the community pray for you in your pursuits.

Thing about dreams is that they don't always mean smooth sailing or clear vision. But if we're following God's will for our lives, it will always be an opportunity to demonstrate our allegiance to Him. I'm pretty excited about the theme. Loretta asked me to begin with the dream that God placed on my heart nearly 7 years ago.

Twist my arm. Ok. (I love telling this story, and forgive me if you know how this ends.) Whenever I'm speaking to groups around the country, I seldom miss an opportunity to share it. Years ago as I sat in my office as the worldwide Fitness Director at Muscle & Fitness magazine, I was editing an article that needed to get out the door ASAP, when I heard a noise from across the indoor atrium. It was Joe Weider -- the founder of bodybuilding and fitness -- leaving his office for the night.

At the time, Joe was in need of a walker as well as a nurse to get around. As he walked out of his office, I watched him as he made his way down the hall and directly in front of a bronze statue of himself from his younger prime -- arms folded, chest puffed, chin high. Captured in time, a bronzed Joe Weider, now merely a backdrop of a struggling reality. In one rare moment, I was an eyewitness to two bookends of the same man. The sight caused me to sit back in my chair. Right then the Holy Spirit whispered to my heart, "It's not about the body." I thought to myself, What's a Christian exercise physiologist to do with such a realization? One of the top fitness experts in the country with one of the nicest titles in the industry, a few celebrity books under my belt and more on the way, I immediately realized a strange hollowness and deadness in my work. I wanted to make an impact on people's lives, and I was hungry for a legacy that would honor the Lord in my area of expertise. It's a moment I will never forget. I started to dream.

I will always be in Joe's debt for giving me my very first writing job out of graduate school and then for the honor of being the fitness expert to his magazines. But while he did so much for the temporary body of a country, I will forever remember him struggle down that hall, fighting for every step. God used his loss of movement to help inspire one. I called it PrayFit.

Again, this week is about pursuing God's best for our lives and living that dream to its fullest. And as we'll see tomorrow from one of God's Biblical examples, sometimes that means the pits and other times it means the peak. See you tomorrow.

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: I began today's message with 'Jesus You Are My All In All.' That means He's the treasure we seek. He's the goal. I tell ya, the older I get the more I realize how little I've meant that statement over the course of my life. I can get so caught up in my dreams that I forget to trust the Giver of it. Are you like me? Am I alone? What can you and I do to make sure that as we diligently strive to live this life, we make sure it's His approval we're after? It's gonna be a good week. Dream, on.

Don't Worry, You Will

When the naysayers said to Arnold Schwarzenegger, "Arnold, we never want to look like you," he famously quipped, "Don't worry. You never will." My younger self chuckles, because on the surface that's one of the best replies I've ever heard. But then again, it's not the surface I'm worried about. Thing is, honoring God with our bodies has nothing to do with the size and shape of muscle. If you think about it, our eyes are part of the body. So what we look at or avoid, what we notice, what we see, what we LIKE on social media, and what we don't look at, that's honor. Our ears too, can't forget those. What we discipline ourselves to listen to, and when we cover our ears to gossip, when we choose to miss a workout to listen to somebody's hurts, that's honoring God with the body. And the tongue, oh man, our words. Talk about honor God! What we say, who we say it to, the topic of discussion, just name it; to say nothing about the time we take to actually talk to Him!

Biceps? Not about circumference, but about picking up your brother. Triceps? Not about what you can pressdown, but about extending the arms to serve, to help, to shake hands, to wipe tears, point directions, and wave hello. (I could go on, but I'll spare you.) Cover your ears Arnold, but any amount of muscle we have should serve to enable us to get where God needs us to be so we can honor Him with the body.

I think that's why Paul - inspired by God - urged us to train in godliness above all. And as I sit here thinking about it, when we train in godliness, spending time in God's word, on our knees in prayer, listening to worship music or Christian lyrics, we're training to look just like Jesus. To think like Him. Walk where He would walk. Talk like He would have us talk. It's a divine twist, right? The purpose of our health is to make much of Jesus, but it's when we eventually lose that health that we'll finally see why: Him. And in that moment, we'll look just like Him. We'll forgive just like Him. We'll extend grace JUST LIKE HIM. We'll be everything we trained for; that's glory.

When we say, "Jesus, we want to look just like you." He says, "Don't worry, you will." Jimmy Peña

Guys, have a good weekend. Such an honor being a part of your week. So many prayer requests, so many names. If you missed any of this week's entries, please sift through and lift people up. Much love to everyone.

It's A Run/Walk

"And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us." --Ephesians 5:2 An author, speaker and member of the 1972 Olympic team, Jeff Galloway is a world-class runner. He broke the U.S. 10-mile record in 1973, and among his victories are the Honolulu, Atlanta and Boston Marathons. What's his best tip? Walk. That's right. In fact, Jeff says, "Thousands of time-goal-oriented veterans have improved by 10, 20, and over 30 minutes in marathons by taking walk breaks early and often to reach their goal in the race. You can easily spot these folks. They're the ones who are picking up speed during the last few miles when everyone else is slowing down."

Almost 20 years ago, I stood in the middle of a rain-soaked football field in Austin, Texas and watched Jeff's theory being tested. For weeks, she'd verbalize her goal: "One time around the track without stopping." What did she do when she didn't make it? She walked. And when she caught her breath, she'd run again. As it turns out, long before my wife Loretta ever read a book by Jeff Galloway or listened to any of his seminars, she practiced what he preached. And I'll never forget the day she made it one (1) time around that old track. In the pouring rain and drenched, we shouted for joy. (She eventually turned that one lap into 26.2 miles without stopping, several times a year.)

One time around the day. You may have just entered your cubicle, dropped the kids off at school or you're about to exercise. Whatever the case, the Bible says we're to run the race and walk in love. So no matter what the world has stacked against you -- be encouraged -- it's a run/walk.

--Jimmy Peña

P.S. You know, it was pretty neat for me to see Loretta meet her hero of the track. Just look at her sweet face. Do you see him giving her instruction? The moment made me think that when it comes to the faith, you and I have an opportunity to follow some heroes and maybe lead as one. Kind of like we talked about yesterday and the pacers of life. So today, as you run your race, make it a point to stand in the middle of someone else's track and shout for joy.

For Discussion: Who will you encourage today? Can you put their name here as a testament and promise? Just type their name. We'll be sure to pray for them. Someone from work that needs a boost, a family member who needs some love, a friend barely holding on. Whoever it is, you're standing in the middle, shouting. Let me help. Let US, help.

For those that are new, I'm on: Facebook Twitter Instagram Do me a favor? Share those pages with friends and family. I'd appreciate it so much.

Distance Yourself

"He who walks with the wise grows wise, but he who walks with fools suffers harm." --Proverbs 13:20 Leading up to her third marathon, my wife had a simple plan: find her pacer and stay close to him or her no matter what. See, most marathon organizations provide the runners with all sorts of tools and techniques to help them through the grueling course -- from seminars on stride, tactics for tackling hills, and perhaps most notably, they offer the runners a pacer.

A pacer is a man or woman capable of finishing the race at an exact time. And when I say exact, I mean exactly that. Kevin (pictured here) ran through the finish line at three hours and 35 minutes -- just what he was asked he'd do. Now, Kevin didn't know who was counting on his pace. All he knew was that someone would be relying on his experience, strength and endurance to help them along their way toward their goal.

In our daily pursuit of spiritual and physical stewardship, we all need pacesetters. People who God places in our lives to help us stay the course. Not only that but God may, in fact, bless us with the privilege of being that for someone else, and it's an honor we can't take lightly. Like Kevin, we may or may not know who it is, but someone is depending on us to know the way and show the way. Just take a look at Monday's prayer requests and yesterday's comments. Glance back and read some of the pain and the hurt. Then listen closely as others come running up beside to rescue with prayer and encourage with hope. Sounds like a group of pacesetters to me.

--Jimmy Peña

P.S. Kevin was a little surprised when I asked him for a photo. Perhaps it's typical for the pacers to be invisible after a race. But I had to ask him to stop, especially when I read the back of his shirt. "Distance Yourself" it said. Wow. Perfect for our verse of the day. Thanks for inspiring us Kevin. We want to keep up.

For Discussion: Does anyone have something they'd like to share? A Praise? A request? Unspoken? We're going to the Lord ALL week for each other. If you happen to read a need from earlier in the week, go ahead and respond here.

BRING US TO YOUR TOWN In a few weeks, Jimmy will be speaking at Pepperdine University in Malibu, talking health through the gospel's lens with faculty and staff. We're so honored. Expos, conferences and congregations across the country have welcomed Jimmy and his message of health as a means of praise. Your town or event could be next. Contact us at [email protected] to schedule a visit from the PrayFit team! As always, for churches and other non-profit events there is never a speaking fee. Talk to your pastors and leaders. Reach out to us and let's see health as a means of praise, together.

God Understands Your Race

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." -- Hebrews 12:1 I think God understands the marathon. Many people will tell you that a marathon is all about the journey, the memories. Well, yes and no. While the memories have their moments, what awaits us at the end is really what it's all about. I mean, I loved the music at mile 12, but I didn't hang around for an entire song. It played, not so much that I would enjoy, but more so that I would endure.

When I began the New York City Marathon a few years ago, I had a running partner as well as a dedicated pacer (the pacer's name was Paul, by the way.) But as you learned yesterday, a little over midway through the race, my body started to fail me (a precursor to the years of spinal issues). So when the partner and pacer ran ahead, I had to slow down. But had that not happened, I would have missed the blind man with his guide, and the woman in the wheelchair with no legs. And yes, I would have missed the two men who led me my last few miles of the race. Two men wearing identical shirts; bright yellow jerseys with black letters. Unmistakable to me. Not so much for the color combo, but for the words on their backs. On one shirt, "Father", and on the other, "Son". Oddly enough, the only comfort I could muster at the time was written on the back of two strangers.

The journey is one thing. But while our bodies fail us, friends leave us, and pacers lose us, the only real comfort is who we follow to the finish. I think God understands the marathon.

--Jimmy Pena

P.S. At dinner that night, I watched a lady limping her way through a restaurant. As she passed our table, I said, "Congratulations". She thanked me. You can always tell the runners. You can see it in their walk.

For Discussion: Please go back to yesterday's entry and read the comments and prayer requests. You'll see the names and you'll hear the voices of others in the race. Like me, they need pacers. Like you, someone on the list needs a friend. Guys, we've been made more than conquerors and we endure.

For The Runner in You: Please take a look at the store for some of our runner-friendly tanks and caps. I think you'll like them. Our partner on the caps is none other than Headsweats, so you know it's the best quality in the business. Thanks Headsweats.

Forever Road

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." --James 1:12 Queensboro Bridge. Halfway through the 2011 New York City Marathon is both where this entry was written, and where my race actually began. Nearly two months of ultrasound and countless hours of therapy weren't enough to convalesce my troubled hamstring. And with 12 miles -- or roughly 24,000 steps left to go -- the grand, lofty notion of taking just one more was in question. So I wrote this entry.

In as much time as it took a thousand runners to pass me by, I wrapped my leg in a makeshift tourniquet using stored gauze, and as many white flags as I could find in my heart. If there's one thing this most novice of runners quickly realized on that bridge, was that the next step was as necessary as the eventual stride that would be needed to cross the finish line. So this week, we'll run some of life's boroughs together.

Friends, life is simply a bridge. Work, school, money, health...all mere mile markers that remind us that we're in a race. And while we don't compete against one another, I think sometimes the most daunting of life's fights occurs when we're surrounded by fellow runners. Fellow runners who are - by nature - each hamstrung by something, and fighting to turn another corner down Forever Road. Let's remember that each step is worth it if we know Who awaits us in the end. --Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Are you on your marks? Let's have a good week. If you or someone you love is a runner, I hope you share this entry with them.....Set....Are there any prayer requests? If something is happening this week you'd like us to remember, or you're dealing with an issue that we can pray about, please let us know. Remember, you can always simply say "unspoken" if you'd prefer and we promise to lift you up....Go.

For The Runners:

A new runner's tank hit the stores. Some of you wanted this verse in black and pink, and the good Lord provided. Hope you enjoy. Also, If you're not already following me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, please do! And check out our latest graphic on Instagram. :-) Facebook Twitter Instagram

Just Something About Him

There's just something about that name. Jesus. Because of that name, we give our weeks themes like grace, faith and discipline. Speaking of discipline, some of yesterday's comments had me in tears a few times. You have to read the comment from Gianna where God asked her to give up crossfit. Please revisit all of them if you can. They reminded me of something Bill Gaither composed in song, "interviewing" some Biblical characters for their testimonies of the time they met Him and gave it all up. He said, "Jesus Christ, the Son of God, became a man like us. Walked the hills, visited the cities, went to the seashores. He met people where they were. And one by one He changed their lives..."

My brother and I are fishermen. We don't know a lot about politics or religion, just know a lot about fishing. First time I ever heard His name, my brother came down and said, "You just have to meet this man." So I went. So I met Him. He looked at me and said, "Come on along. Come with me." There's just something about Him. There's just...something about Him we...we just gave it all up. Gave up the boats and the nets and the fishing, and just went with Him. And I've been with Him ever since.

I'm a businessman here in Jericho. Well, actually, I'm a tax collector. He came to my house for dinner one day. We talked for a while and then, well, I don't know what happened to me. But I ended up giving half of everything I owned to poor people. And to those who I cheated, I gave back four times the amount I took. There's...there's just something about Him.

I was at the well drawing water when I first met him. Naturally I offered him a drink. But he wasn't like the other men I know. He seemed to look right through me. He told me everything I'd ever done. I never met a man like this man. He forgave me!

And that's how it was with people everywhere. Whether they were rich or poor, young or old, mighty, lowly. When they met Jesus, things happened. Their lives were changed. And like you, I have a testimony. Not Gospel-worthy, but grace needy. A young, hard-charging Texas kid-turned fitness expert-turned frail writer. If I hadn't met Him, who knows where I'd be? Maybe still big and strong without a scratch on me. But years ago He healed my heart, so I'd just as soon keep the scars. There's just something about Him. Jimmy Peña

Your Testimony: Faithful PrayFit reader, Wanda, mentioned in a comment this week that it feels like we're a close-knit family. And I agree, especially since I read your comments every day. And today, let's share some more. I'd love to know your testimony. You're being interviewed about the time you gave it all up. Like the testimonies above, tell us about the day you met Him. I can't wait to hear.

A Disciplined Faith

"I’m not going to offer God, my God, sacrifices that are no sacrifice.." --2 Samuel 24:24 (the msg) Another translation of the verse above? I won't give God anything that costs me nothing. Continuing our week's discussion on discipline, here's a tough question: Would you forfeit your health for the Lord? More specifically, would you give up your fitness lifestyle if God asked you to?

Maybe you're a runner. An avid runner. Your calendar is marked, not with holidays or birthdays, but with 10Ks. Or perhaps you're a fitness junkie. You lift, you sprint, you jump rope, you flip tires and you repeat it...six days a week. What if God asked you to give it all up? And no, He doesn't give you His reasoning because He doesn't need to explain Himself to you. All you know is that the one passion you have in life -- that one thing that fulfills you and makes you you -- He wants you to totally relinquish. No more gym. No more road. How would you feel? Sad, confused, both? What would you do?

Well, before you say, "Jimmy, I doubt God would ever ask me to give up something like that," let's visit a couple guys who would beg to differ...

When Abraham got to the top of Mt. Moriah, he was both confused and saddened. "Daddy, where's the lamb?" asked Isaac. But Abraham took the son he loved more than life itself, set him on the altar and raised his knife.

When the rich young ruler approached the Lord and asked Him what he needed to do to have eternal life, Jesus said to sell all his possessions, give to the poor and then follow Him. But the Bible says the rich man walked away sad because he was rich.

Two men, both asked to sacrifice the love of their life. One was sad but obedient, the other was sad because he couldn't be. The difference? Faith. Faith saved Isaac and spawned generations that outnumber the stars. Faith loved. Faith sensed guidance. Faith followed. Faith swallowed fear. Faith didn't walk away sad.

Now, Lord only knows what He's calling you to do (or not do) when it comes to His purpose for your life, but is there anything you need to sacrifice in order to be closer to Him? Since He's likely not asking you to give up your pursuit of fitness, could it mean you need to carve out time alone with Him? If He's asking for time with you, do you walk away sad because you're so "fit"? Or on the flip side, if you're not honoring your health like God desires, perhaps stewardship is your sacrifice. Maybe the hill of discipline is your Mount Moriah. What is God asking you to do?

--Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: This week is a challenge for all of us in one way or another. Anyone want to share what God is asking of you? Love to hear your thoughts.

Discipline Determines Destiny

I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should." --1 Corinthians 9:27 Some of you have heard me share this experience, but I think it's perfect for this Monday. I once had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Charles Stanley with In Touch Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia. I've met a few celebrities in my career, but none of them ever made me nervous. Friends, my hands were sweating and my legs were shaking when I had the honor of speaking with him.

Well, anyway, he delivered a message entitled, "Discipline Determines Destiny." Of course, he made it clear that he wasn't talking about eternal destiny, but that he wanted to discuss our earthly effectiveness; how we handle our money, our time, our relationships and ohhhh yes, while I was at the edge of my seat, he said it..."how we handle our health."

None of the other topics received much of a reaction (perhaps because they were expected), but when he asked the question, "Who wants to live a long, healthy life?", there was a noticeable murmur. When it became quiet, Dr. Stanley simply asked his congregation how they expected to live abundantly when they're facing avoidable and preventable road blocks of health. Hearing it from me is one thing, but when Dr. Charles Stanley says it, it's another thing altogether.

As he preached, I scribbled. He used words and phrases like,

The value we place on our health will be evident in our diligence... Fulfilling, achieving, orderly, less stressful... Aimless and lethargic versus Godly and confident... Feeling good about yourself... Nothing to do with age... He still has the best in mind for you... Positive impact on others...health can be a way to witness... Build better health and a better faith...

Folks, go ahead and quiet the murmur in your mind and settle your thoughts on this one: Your health is important to God. Any personal justification you've otherwise convinced yourself with, is false. The call to action this week is a call of discipline. And it doesn't matter what you decide to do.  Just decide and work within your means. Walk the block or the dog. Do some push-ups or lift some weights. Walk away from the dessert menu and step up to the plate of clean eating. Discipline determines destiny, and if you're reading this, yours is still unwritten.

--Jimmy Peña

PrayFit @ Pepperdine University

Over the weekend, I made it official that I will be speaking at Pepperdine University in Malibu this semester. Over a 6-week period, I'll be speaking to faculty and staff about health through the Gospel's lens. More to come and we'll be documenting it, but I wanted to share the news with you first. Praise God. Please be praying for me as I prepare my heart, mind and words for this honor.

The Island of Grace

"He refreshes my soul..." --Psalm 23:3 We've been here before, but I can't think of a better place to still our hearts and minds than on the island of grace. Be it in the fitness industry or in the aisle at your local supermarket, the water can get choppy, leaving you bobbing in the wake of someone's opinion, society's judgments or self-destructive habits of comparison and self-obsession. The under currents are strong, and it's not long before you're waving your arms, "Look at me, I measure up! I fit in! Can anyone see me?!"

But the anchor of grace reminds us that health is given for one singular purpose: to bring glory to a mighty God. And as we've discussed over the years, that means so many things, and it doesn't mean so many things. But if you're tired, don't worry. Treading water is toughest in really shallow water which is, coincidentally, where the world demands most of your time. But thankfully, God provides a shore. So go ahead and come out. Wrap yourself in a towel of compassion. Have a seat on the beach, run your toes through the sand, take a deep breath, and bask in a warmness only a Godly view of the body can provide.

Next week we'll hit the water again hard, because our health demands our best. But for now -- yawwwwn -- I think I found a great spot for a nap.

--Jimmy Peña

Please Share Us! If you haven't already, please find us and share us on your social media networks. Facebook Twitter Instagram.

Unless It Was Given You

The scene in John 19 is arguably one of the most difficult to read through. Pilate has since ordered Jesus to be whipped and beaten, and a crown of thorns has been placed upon His head. But the pressure of the crowd put fear in Pilate's heart, so again he questions Jesus. In prideful fury, Pilate demands Christ acknowledge his authority saying, "Don't you know that I have the power to have you crucified?" (v. 10)  To which the Lord says, "You would have no power over me, unless it was given you from above." (v.11) Yesterday on the entry, as well as on our social media outlets, I posted, "Everything you've worked for is a gift...." And the scene in John is a sobering reminder of that truth. After all, nobody reading this sentence would argue that Pilate likely "earned" his title. He worked hard, paid his dues, put in the time. His blood, sweat and tears could likely be traced all the way to Ceasar's front door. But notice Jesus. He wrapped up every position Pilate held, every merit badge, every medal, every title, and all the power and said "...unless it was given you..."

Imagine the blow to his ego. Who is this penniless carpenter to tell me that everything I've earned was given me? Squints eyes...grits teeth...shakes fist...saves face.

Yes, fitness takes work. We're living in bodies designed to topple, atrophy, slow down, crumble and ultimately fail. For that reason, the overload principle is still true: The body will only change according to the level at which you stress it. And that stress takes discipline, diligence, hard work. But as we nod in agreement that the grind is tortuous and the results often glorious, God forbid we ever assume we'd have any of it unless it was given us. So, before we boast in the blood, sweat and tears we've shed, think of Pilate. No, better yet, someone else's would probably be best for us to consider. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: Jesus put Pilate in his place, (literally and figuratively). Let's do ourselves the honor by putting ourselves in ours. What do you think stops us from giving God credit for both the ability to work hard and the results? Is it pride? Like Pilate, do you think we're influenced by the crowd? The applause? How many "likes" do you think Pilate would get for his ego? Who among us would look Jesus in the face, shake a fist and say, "Jesus, I earned this body you created!" I have trouble even typing that.

Grace Makes Me See Through

We interrupt this regularly scheduled post about growing in grace with an unplanned post about the same subject. Yesterday, I had a slight setback physically, and I took to writing on social media and well, I wanted to share it with you. "I know, I know; talking about God’s grace again. It’s not that I don’t have anything else to say, but it’s that I can’t exhaust it if I tried. Over twenty years ago, grace was with me every time I got under a 600lb squat or a 405 bench. Week after week, as the chalk was flying and Metallica was blaring, I'd whisper to myself, “I’m saved, I have a future, I’m blessed.” I’d let the fire build in my heart until it was an inferno, and then I’d dig a hole with each rep. Rock and fire. Like a piston, up and down. It's light! Rack it! Again. More. Again.

Twenty years later, God's grace got me through things even heavier. When my neck was replaced, grace got rid of my walker. When my lower back was rebuilt, grace let me tie my shoes by myself. And many of you know that when I was stricken with an infirmity of my colon, a risky surgery to repair an involuntary muscle left me with a pain I can’t explain and a lifetime to manage it. But grace sustains me. (I admit, I’d prefer to lose the rest of my spinal disks than to live with this, but I can’t.)

Transparent? Yeah, I’m transparent. Grace makes me see through.

Guys, when life crushes you, God not only repairs, He restores (or He will someday in Heaven.) That’s what we mean when we say grace is enough. If we never get better, Heaven will be more than enough. Why do I always urge grace, fueled by faith and wrapped with humility? Because everyday, amid pain and loss - and before my little workout - I’m still whispering to myself, “I’m saved, I have a future, I’m blessed.” Jimmy Peñã

For Discussion: You guys praying for me? I'm praying for you. Appreciate you taking the time to read and spend a few quiet moments together as an extended family. Now back to our regularly scheduled program. Have a great day guys.

Grace Isn't Natural

Over the last few days, the thought of "growing in grace" has been resonating inside me, and if you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you know I haven't been silent on the issue. I've listed a few of my thoughts below as way of review, but what I'm coming to learn more than ever is that grace is the only thing that makes us what we are not naturally. (Please chew on that sentence for a second.) Then consider: >>Growing in grace as a Christian in the fitness industry means learning that our walk in the gym is sometimes a stride and often times a crawl, but it's not a strut.

>>Growing in grace as a Christian in the fitness industry means when we gain strength, or endurance, even flexibility, we're more and more sure they're gifts, and less likely to think we've somehow improved God's work.

>>Growing in grace as a Christian in the fitness industry means realizing that one person's walk is another person's high-intensity interval. Somebody's light weight is another person's heaviest possible (or even allowed.) It means less navel-gazing, less self-praising, less subtle-hazing.

>>Growing in grace as a Christian in the fitness industry means we want others to hear God's thunder long before we want to steal it.

Name the topic, choose the venue, select the environment, and grace alters our natural state. My natural self - and maybe yours too - wants to be prideful at times, borderline judgmental, even puffed-up, but the more we grow in grace (the more we become like Jesus) the more our hearts are inclined to do what doesn't come naturally. Like we said yesterday, how God is calling us to align our hearts with His will is completely unique. So, it's your turn. Please finish this sentence as it concerns your heart toward health. No matter where you are physically: "To me, growing in grace means________________________"

(If you put your name next to it, I may use it on social media with your permission.) Can't wait to read your responses. Jimmy Peña

For Thought: In Heaven, we will live in a body that knows no decay, and we'll naturally trust and obey. How? We'll be JUST like Jesus because of grace. We'll be EVERYTHING we're not naturally.

Growing In Grace

Spent my Saturday morning at Balboa park. Loretta was getting her long run in for the week, so I decided to join her. Along with an amazing running trail, Balboa Park has a neat little station equipped with pull-up bars, dip bars and more. The best part is that all of the bars are low to the ground (for little and big kids like me), so it allows me to modify the moves with ease. I did dips, push-ups, and modified pull-ups in circuit fashion. And by modified I mean, with my feet on the ground at all times. (Lord just keeps blessing and blessing.) So while Loretta is running, I'm training.

Anyway, as I was working, a guy came jogging along wearing a "Kingdom Business" t-shirt. I immediately pulled my headphones out and simultaneously complimented his shirt and showed him mine. Without saying a word, our common ground shook. We hit fists, slapped hands and kept training. Music back in, I was back at my Kingdom business and he was back minding his. What a feeling; single-minded, growing in grace, training physically. Pretty much sums it up, amen?

As we begin a new week, be encouraged and reminded that when we pray, "Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven" it includes aligning our heart for health to align with God's will. Sometimes that alignment requires sweat, other times tears, and it always means stillness. But while the alignment is unique to every believer, the process of health is best guided by a heavenly perspective.

Gonna be a good week. Hope you check in often and stay a while. Let's grow in grace. This is me, looking for a fist bump. Jimmy Peña

A Courageous Reaction

What a week, right? So blessed by C.S. Lewis and his children's tale "Chronicles of Narnia." I could likely write a month's worth of devotions about them, because the films are so full of gold, but nonetheless, for those that were here each day to be encouraged, I hope that came true. You know, a sign we're growing in grace is knowing the source of our strength. And on Monday we were reminded that we need godly courage to meet each day's needs, and all those needs can only be met by the Lion in us. Tuesday young Edmund helped us recall that no matter how far we've wandered, despite our mistakes and missteps, and even in the midst of unforeseen infirmities, a face-to-face with Jesus is the birthplace of faith and the beginning of courage. On Wednesday we decided that if we roar, let it be about Jesus. And of course, yesterday (my favorite moment of the week) little Reepicheep offered his sword, but was quickly taught that he thought too much of his honor. (Right?) Neat, neat.

Courage. Godly courage. I have very little of it. But during weeks like this, something inside me rises up. Somewhere deep in my heart, a timid Jimmy digs his heels in a little deeper for whatever the day has in store. Hopefully that's the same for you. Whether you need courage for your health, an illness, work-related issue, family struggle, or sharing Christ with strangers, I pray your default reaction is a courageous one.

And so....farewell, Aslan. Or as the kids of Narnia would say, "Long live, Aslan!" Yeah, thanks my friend. Needed you this week. Thank you for reminding us that with Jesus in our hearts, we've conquered this world through Him. Thank you for the courage you've helped us summon through the gospel of grace. And I meant what I said. If I could hug you, I would. So as this sentimental fool types through his tears, I think I speak for all the readers today when I say you're welcome here anytime. Jimmy Peña

DID YOU ENJOY THE WEEK? Hope so. Any thoughts? Prayer requests? Needs? Praises? Feedback on the week? Love to hear from you and pray with you. Have a good weekend. Big news soon.

Lost Tails and All

Jesus takes our fears seriously. In fact, He takes our fears more seriously than we do. Let that thought marinade in your mind for a second. Before He left earth, He left no doubt about it. More than any other command, Jesus urged us to not fear. Of everything we know the Lord said to us while dwelling among us, "fear not" topped the list. If you think about it, what stops us from sharing our faith with strangers? What hinders us from loving the unlovable, forgiving the unforgivable or attempting the impossible? Fear, fear and more fear. It's no wonder He encouraged courage. Well, before we say goodbye to Aslan tomorrow, I wanted to hopefully encourage you with one more principle that I drew from C.S. Lewis in his children's tale. In a cute, comical scene, Aslan is talking to Reepicheep; a brave, sword-fighting mouse who has lost his tail in a great battle. While Aslan tells Reepicheep that the shortened tail becomes him well, Reepicheep dramatically offers his sword to Aslan saying that because of his deformity, he must resign from duty. "All the same, great King. I regret that I must withdraw, for a tail is the honor and glory of a mouse." Then Aslan delivers probably one of the strongest lines in the film (perfect for mice and men.) He replied, "Perhaps you think too much of your honor, friend."

Wow. I actually pressed rewind to hear that again. Perhaps you think too much of your honor. What a powerful principle and a perfect reminder for us during courage week. Guys, when we focus on our abilities, inabilities, physical or otherwise, we get wrapped up in our own honor and ego. We think if we're not whole, we're not us. But with God, we're whole. We're enough. Lost tails and all. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: I can relate to Reepicheep. I used to be pretty fit and strong; put together. (True story.) Honor intact, I had the world by the tail. Then I started losing spinal disks and colon function. LOL, yeah, that'll do it. Many a day I offered God my sword, withdrawing from duty. Like Reepicheep, I thought too much of my honor. But God had other plans. So I kept typing, He kept healing. Yeah, I used to think I was put together with muscle and bone, when in truth, I've always been held together by a thread. And that's enough.

Roaring Times

--Continuing with our Chronicles of Narnia marathon, here's Lucy talking to Aslan. Because she was the only one among her friends at the time who could see him, she was afraid to follow him. Here Aslan is asking her why that held her back....--

So, yesterday I sat in a boardroom. Probably the biggest meeting of my little career. I may have mentioned that this was a big week for me. Well, with my agency on my left and my production partner to my right, I proceeded to explain to these execs how PrayFit began. I started with the early days; a blog with a handful of readers. Then I talked about the first book, and our mention on The Tonight Show which led to our DVD series with Lionsgate Entertainment. I finished my summary with our latest cookbook with Simon & Schuster. Oh I was on a roll and getting ALL of my points across. (Well, not all of them.)

While someone else was talking, it was as if the room grew quiet. I thought of all of you, and this week's topic, and Loretta's last text to me before I went into the meeting. "Have courage. You're not alone." I'm sure my grin was noticeable as I thought to myself, "I have the spirit of the living God in me. What's holding me back?"

Daydream over, I sat up in my seat, leaned across the freshly-polished mahogany and said, "Above all. Our diligence toward a healthy lifestyle is not about the mirror. It's about the One we're trying to mirror. If our health doesn't begin and end with Jesus, then we're just going through the motions." I'm giggling to myself as I type this recap, but I suppose in my weak and feeble way, I tried to roar.

Now, whether or not this network puts us on TV, I'm not sure. But one thing is. They know that this company, this site, my books and DVDs are designed to bring honor and glory to our Lord. Otherwise, better change the channel. Amen? Jimmy Peña

FOR DISCUSSION: How has this week's theme bolstered your courage? Any specifics you care to share? What praises do you have to raise to the group? And this week, it's ok if you show some teeth. Please let me know. (And hey guys, I covet your prayers. Today I have another major network meeting. Roar with me.)

Facing Courage

"And then that word grew louder and louder until it was a battle cry."- lyrics of "The Call" from The Chronicles of Narnia.

Here we find Edmund before heading off to war - a stubborn, power-hungry, disobedient boy who wandered away from what was right to seek his own glory - seen here talking to Aslan. The neat part about this scene - and the reason I chose it today - is that we don't hear the conversation between the two. What we do know is that all it took for Edmund to turn his life around was a face-to-face with the One who saved him.

Courage is our battle cry this week, and so many people responded to yesterday's entry. Prayer requests, special needs, courage seekers, and as I type this very sentence a need was posted from a reader who can't quite put into words what she's feeling or thinking. Having wandered far from God, as well as, recently diagnosed with cancer, she's unsure of what she needs or if she's even worthy to ask for it.

Guys, so many people around us are hurting, scared and desperate; in need of hope as they head off to war.

Truth: No matter how far we've wandered, despite our mistakes and missteps, and even in the midst of unforeseen infirmities, a face-to-face with Jesus is the birthplace of faith and the beginning of courage.

Are you waiting to hear the diagnosis? Got a big meeting at 4:00pm PST? Does your neighbor need your forgiveness? Maybe it's time to take back your health? Whatever it is, let the word "courage" grow louder and louder inside your heart until it's a battle cry. Because like we learn from Edmund, the best we can do is know who our friends are when we head off to war. Amen to that. No matter who or what you're up against today, before you face them, face Him. Jimmy Peña

For Discussion: What Biblical character can you think of that - even after wandering far from God - received courage by going back to the beginning for a face-to-face?

The Lion in Us

Last week Loretta and I decided to do a "Chronicles of Narnia Marathon."  Anyone seen all three films? Considered a classic in children's literature, the teaching principles throughout these C.S. Lewis stories are innumerable. And to think there are seven Narnia books, and rumors are swirling of a fourth movie. If you haven't seen or read them, the main character is a lion named Aslan; an alternate version of Jesus in these fantasy tales. Wiping away tears at the end of each film, Loretta and I both agreed that if we could hug Aslan, we'd do so and never let go. We'd follow him everywhere, never letting him out of our sight. If the most gentle and powerful being of all time were our closest friend and at our side day and night, we'd have courage to talk about God with anyone, anywhere, anytime. We'd forgive sooner and help more. And don't get us started on how much less we'd worry. (You know where I'm going with this, so I won't even say it.)

This week is another big week for PrayFit. I'll walk into some crowded boardrooms with my little box of dreams. And it's funny - as silly as it sounds and with a grin on my face as I type - I know I won't be alone. The network executives on the other side of the table won't be able to see Him at my side as they evaluate me and PrayFit, but they'll know He's there; by my words, my spirit, my heart and by this week's theme of devotions, my courage.

Over the next few days, we'll talk courage when it comes to our health and well-being. Fact is, whether we're super healthy, severely ill and anywhere in-between, we need godly courage to meet each day's needs. And all those needs can only be met by the Lion in us. Jimmy and Loretta Peña

Prayer Requests of Courage: Anyone facing something this week that you'd like us to help you pray about? Job interview? Doctor's appointment? Presentation? Sale pending? Trying to share Christ with a co-worker? Are you losing a battle with pride? It takes courage to face it all. List your need here or simply say "Unspoken" and this little band of your brothers and sisters promises to pray for you.

PrayFit Perspective: As much as we strive for greater health, it's our time in God's word and in prayer that has everlasting results. Grace doesn't atrophy. Later this week we'll be looking at the kind of courage it takes for the believer in the fitness community to seek godliness over what the world demands. Stay tuned.