“Therefore, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I, myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 (NLT)
Been camping lately?
Honestly, we all have when it comes to fitness.
Camp #1 – “Whenever I feel like exercising, I lie down until the feeling passes.” (Robert Hutchins) and “You’ve reached middle-age when all you exercise is caution.” --Anonymous
Camp #2 – “Discipline will take you to places where motivation can’t.” (Unknown) and We cannot start over. But we can begin now and make a new ending.” -- Zig Ziglar.
Camp #3 – Likely somewhere between the 1 & 2. Where we camp MOST is the key.
Where are you camping?
We have so much more information available at our fingertips about living a healthier lifestyle than we used to. A greater emphasis on “taking care of ourselves” should promote a healthier generation than previous ones, right?
But are we?
Current stats would indicate a hard NO! According to 2024 studies, the United States ranks #12 in the world for obesity.
Let’s be Transparent
We usually aim for “fit-ish” not fitness. As Followers of Christ, this should give us pause if we are committed to the principle of stewardship.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20, (NLT) “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So, you must honor God with your body.”
The Bottom Line
Attention to a healthy lifestyle enables us to carry out the mission and influence of being a disciple of Christ. It takes intentionality, commitment, self-control, EFFORT, and accountability. Things we often try to hide in the pantry behind the Oreos!
Exercise isn’t optional. Movement is essential. Extremes likely won’t get you there, but consistency will. Eating a doughnut with no sprinkles is NOT cutting back. And let’s be clear, you and I will never be able to work out enough for a positive shift in our health if we don’t start at the table. Consumption is huge and it doesn’t play fair. The older I get, the more I realize the impact of past habits (good and bad) and choices.
The apostle Mark wrote in 12:20,
“And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.”
That covers it.
Strength is required to carry out God’s mission to the world through us. We live in a culture that wants Alexa to do our workouts, so we can spend OUR time with hobbies, chips, and screens. That won’t burn a lot of calories and we wonder why we “can’t get in shape.” Transformation isn’t easy, but nothing life-changing is. We have to hit delete when the mind wants to bully the body.
Our Motivation
Rick Clunn (Hall of Fame Bassmaster Champion) after winning an event at the ripe ole age of 69, and when others counted him out stated,” Never accept that all your best moments are in the past.” That message sounds more spiritual than earthly! The Father wants us to go the distance in bringing His Truth to our world. Fitness promotes and supports His mission. It serves as the fuel for our mission-minded focus.
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 nails it,
“Therefore, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I, myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
When we seek a healthy lifestyle of choices that fuel and move our bodies, we can better align ourselves with God’s plan for us; living the abundant life that only He offers! What greater motivation can there be?
Mark Stitch
MD5 Facilitator
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