Tag: Self Care

Find Your Faith

Posted on by FitFaithLife

Let Your Faith Be Bigger than Your Fears

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In order to Find Your Faith, it involves relying on and putting your total trust in God. Have you ever felt like you are at a stand still? Like everything you are doing is not moving you any closer to your dreams and goals? We all have had those times. In times like that you need to check your faith. 

Proverbs 3 (AMP)says “Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. a]In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].” 

This year has put our faith to the test. Many of us have had major setbacks and losses this year. Yet we can also say “But God…”!  And for some of us this has been a year of meeting and surpassing goals and expectations. Where ever you fall on the spectrum of emotions and event for this year, it is so important that you remain in faith. 

Find Your Faith
Find Your Faith

The first way to find your faith is to Watch Your Words.  We have what we say we have. We speak things into existence because we have the same power that God has to speak life or death into any situation. Proverbs 18:21 NASB says “Death and life are in the power of the tongue. and those who love it will eat its fruit.”  What are you saying about your situation? Are you speaking life or death? Are you saying that it will never work or it wont get better? God says it will but you have to speak life and believe.

The next thing you have to do to find your faith  is Not Fear.  There are 365 times that the Bible says “Do Not Be Afraid”. Fear is a faith blocker. It will stifle your productivity and leave you at a stand still. Fear is a warning signal to pay attention but it is not a full stop. For instance, fear will tell you don’t move forward or make that call.  There are some things that we have to do afraid. There are times to push past the fear but that requires faith. Faith says it all will work out in your favor. 

Lastly to find your faith, you have to Walk in Faith. All activity is not progress. Are you making lateral moves or are you moving forward towards your objectives, dreams and goal?  Walking out your faith takes a decision. Decide that you are worth the effort and the time it will take to reach your goals. There is no way to get to your destination without first deciding to go.  However, change is not change until you change. Get up, go after it!  

What would you do if you knew you could not fail?  

“I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.“

Stephanie

FitFaith Movement

The Intersection of Faith and Fitness

Posted on by FitFaithLife

In 2013 I embarked on a journey to lose the baby weight and get healthy.  Through eating right and moving more I was able to lose 50 pounds. However, in reality I gained SO much more! The process of losing weight is challenging. It requires discipline and commitment. It requires looking at yourself and being brutally honest with yourself. It was in all of my honesty that I found the Intersection of Faith and Fitness. Because of this discovery I have embarked on helping others to find the intersection of faith and fitness in their own lives in what I hashtag as the #FitFaithMovement.

You may be thinking, THIS is what I need in my life right now! If it is, I would like you to consider a few things about faith that you can also apply to fitness.

First, Faith is more than feelings.  There is a big difference between being a professor of faith and a possessor of faith. It is important to profess your faith but you must take the actions to possess the things that you believe. Talk is cheap because faith is more than something you say.

Faith is More
Talk is cheap because faith is more than just something you say.

James 2:14 AMP says,  “What is the benefit, my fellow believers, if someone claims to have faith but has no [good] works [as evidence]? Can that [kind of] faith save him? [No, a mere claim of faith is not sufficient—genuine faith produces good works.]”

Matthew 7:21 AMP says, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven.

So real faith is an action word. Similarly, fitness is only possessed by those who take action. We could also say that Talk is cheap because fitness is more than something you say you are going to do.  The only muscle that is built up by talking is your mouth.

Second, Faith is something you do. And so is fitness.

There is often a gap between behavior and belief.  Sometimes what we say we believe we don’t always back up with our lifestyle. Faith will show up in the way you behave.  When God comes in your life, he will change you as he stretches your faith.  When Christ comes in your life, everything starts taking on new meaning, new purpose, new significance and new value.   You have to ask yourself, “How am I different?”

James 2:18 AMP says, But someone may say, “You [claim to] have faith and I have [good] works; show me your [alleged] faith without the works [if you can], and I will show you my faith by my works [that is, by what I do].”

Something I discovered as I worked to lose weight was that I had to find that something on the inside of me that kept me on track. The thing that made me eat right when I didn’t want to and go to the gym when I would rather be watching tv. That thing was my faith. I had faith that if I continued to do what I was doing that I was going to get the results that I desired. This thought leads us to our third point.

Third, Faith (and Fitness) requires commitment.

Believing is not enough. Some people believe in their head but they don’t have it in their heart. They have head knowledge. I can believe a lot of things but until I accept it in my heart, I will never receive the thing that I believe. As it is with fitness, I can know all of the exercises to do, I can know all of the right things to eat but unless I am committed to doing it I will not see it happen for me.

James says, “let me see it in your life”! Jesus calls us to a relationship that makes faith more than something you believe.  James 2:19 says,  You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!  Are you just talking about your faith or are you living it? Are you talking about getting fit or are you living it as lifestyle?

As you start or continue your faith and fitness journey, remember these three things: Faith is more than feelings, Faith is something you do, Faith requires commitment and so does Fitness! I want to challenge you to make a commitment to optimize your faith and fitness for the next thirty days. Join us in our Private Facebook Group to share how your faith and fitness commitment is going.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Building a Simple and Effective Home Gym for the Busy Mom

Posted on by FitFaithLife

I always considered myself to be a pretty fit and active person. When I got married I did what most newlyweds do… I cooked and I ate and I packed on a few pounds! I knew that I wanted to shed a few of the pounds I had gained as a happy newlywed. I would go to the gym sporadically and saw sketchy results. Then, I had two children in two years, which changed my wanting to shed a few pounds to needing to lose at least fifty pounds! As a new mom with a toddler and a newborn there was no way I was going to the gym, even though in my mind I saw myself getting up at 5am every morning, going to the gym and getting my pre-baby body back. You know, like all those other moms out there…. Anyway, that vision did not became my reality. I realized that I was going to have get started with what I already had.

When I decided it was time to get in shape and lose the baby weight, I gathered the various equipment I had scattered all over my house and discovered that I had a pretty effective home gym. I found that you can get fit at home with no or minimal equipment that won’t break the bank! The equipment that I have includes, dumbbells, a stability ball, an exercise/yoga mat, a jump rope, and resistance bands. I use each of these in various ways to create a great workout!

I have three pound and five pound dumbbells. I use the three and five pound weights when I do squats to make them a bit more challenging. Place one weight in each hand. As you bend your knees into the squat position, lift your arms in front of you to shoulder height. Do three sets of five to start. If you can do more, increase the number of reps per set.

Although my stability ball has become more of a toy for my kids, there are some excellent core exercises that can be done using it. A simple and easy one that is very effective is crunches. To do this, lay back on the ball with your feet firmly on the floor. Place your hands with your fingertips to your ears, so you do not strain your neck and gently and smoothly lift your head pointing your chin towards the ceiling.

My exercise/yoga mat is of great use, especially since my entire house has hard wood floors! I use it for everything from sit-ups to crunches to planks and more. When choosing a mat, make sure you choose one that has enough cushioning to be comfortable and enough of a grip so you won’t slide around while exercising.

Another simple tool is my jump rope. I have to admit my rope has been under utilized. However, recently I took it along with me to my family reunion. Mostly because I had packed a jump rope for my daughter and I wanted to show her how to use it. I got a great workout on the go! That is the beauty of the rope. It is compact and travels well. With this in your arsenal there is really no excuse not to get a workout in. If you don’t know where to begin, try this jump rope workout by FitnessBlender.com. http://www.fitnessblender.com/v/workout-detail/Jump-Rope-Weight-Loss-Routine-20-Minute-Home-Cardio-Workout/8u/

Another compact and easy to use item are resistance bands. They can be used for a total body workout. I primarily use them for my arms but they can be modified to workout your legs as well. Two of my favorite resistance band exercises are a simple curl and a shoulder press, although I know I could also do this with my weights. You can also combine those two exercises to make your workout more challenging. Resistance bands come in a variety of colors which correspond to different weights. They can be bought individually or as a set. Again they also travel well eliminating excuses.

Since starting to work out a few years ago I have added Kettle bells to my arsenal. I plan to add these final items to my home gym to continue to add variety to my workouts, a Chin-up Bar, and a Bosu Ball. Kettle bells are the most trendy and popular workout equipment these days. Beside being on trend they provide an excellent upper and lower body workout. A chin up bar provides a full workout for your arms, shoulders, back and chest. They are available in sturdy varieties that don’t require being screwed into your doorway and they are compact enough to be stored under your bed. Lastly, the Bosu Ball is another piece of stability equipment. It looks like a stability ball that has been cut in half. It can be used in a variety of ways to build your core muscles.

Often people don’t embark on a journey to fitness using the excuse that they can’t afford a treadmill or a gym membership. The reality is that three out of four gym memberships go unused any way. I have introduced you to eight must have items for your home gym. If you purchase one item each month, you will have your complete home gym just in time for summer! Remember to be fit and have fun!

What is your favorite at home gym equipment?

The Power of Prayer

The Power of Prayer

Posted on by FitFaithLife

There is something about the moment we submit our thoughts and hearts to God in prayer.  When we approach Him with  true repentance and reverence, we can expect to come away from that encounter restored.  The Power of Prayer is in the personal connection we have when we choose to have a dialogue with God. In order to understand the power of prayer, you must first understand what prayer is. Dr. Myles Munroe explained it well in his book, Understanding the Purpose and Power of Prayer. He gives these four explanations:

  1. Prayer is man giving God the legal right and permission to interfere in earth’s affairs.
  2. Prayer is man giving heaven earthly license to influence earth.
  3. Prayer is a terrestrial license for celestial interference.
  4. Prayer in man exercising his legal authority on earth to invoke heaven’s influence on the planet.

Keeping these foundational thoughts in mind, let’s get a closer understanding of how powerful prayer can be in your life.

The Power of Prayer
Prayer Creates Peace

God is Our Source: God will provide all of our needs according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) He is the beginning and the end. He is the author of our faith and the source of our conduct. He is the foundation of all that we have and hope to build.  It is sometimes a challenge to totally rely on someone else. Being dependent on someone other than ourselves can be a scary place but when you allow God to be your source, you actually open yourself to a freedom that can only be found in Him.  Let God be your source of faith, let God be your source of hope, let God be your source of love, let God be your source of strength, let God be your source of everything.  When we do this, the doors of understanding and opportunity can be flung wide open in every area of our lives.

 

Prayer Creates Peace: Philippians 4:6-7 MSG says  “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”  When we pray, we have an exchange with God. Our worry for His peace. Our sorrow for His joy. Our weakness for His strength.  When everything seems to be spinning out of control in our lives that is the time to allow God to put the breaks on the world and rest in His peace.

The Power of Prayer
Praise is Your Protection

Praise Is Your Protection: Part of prayer is praise. Praising and thanking God ahead of the storm creates a buffer around you. Prayer opens the communication with God and Praise invites Him to work on your behalf.  Please understand that there is nothing that we can do or say to make God do more or less for us. His Word is full of the promises that He has given to us. Faith is the assurance that God will do what He said He would do. Prayer and praise unlock your faith, opening you up to victory in God!

Although there are many scriptures about prayer, these will help you to unlock the Power of Prayer in your life.

2 Chronicles 7:14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. 

Luke 18: 1 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.

Ephesians 6: 17-18  and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints

I Thessalonians 5: 16-19  Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 

Matthew 16:19  I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed[a] in heaven.”

Matthew 18:18-20 Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed[a] in heaven. 19 Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.

Above all, prayer is communication with God. Those that we love we want to talk to them every chance that we get. Allow God to love on you today and show that love back to Him by talking to Him every chance you get.

Prayer is not just an activity, a ritual or an obligation! It is communion and communication that touches God’s heart. #PrayerPower #theLIFE

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Make the most of the Holidays

Five Ways to Make the Most of the Holidays

Posted on by FitFaithLife

The holiday season is upon us. Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years mean big family meals and holiday office parties. Not to mention the eggnog, cakes and pies which can all put a strain on our waistlines.  These Five Ways to Make the Most of the Holidays will help you enjoy the holidays and all they bring without regrets.

Make the most of the Holidays
Five Ways to Make the Most of the Holidays

De-Stress and Get Rest:

The holidays can bring stress from fighting traffic, hours of shopping for food and for the perfect gift.  Stress can add inches to your waistline. Stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels which can interfere with learning and memory, lower immune function and bone density, increase weight gain, blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease. Avoid the rush by making a list of all that you need to get before you leave the house or better yet shop from home.  Online shopping is a way avoid the hustle and bustle and find some great deals. Sites like Amazon give you the option to shop from the comfort of your home and save time, gas and money. Many grocery stores offer a shop from home option and they will deliver your items right to your door.

During this holiday season take the opportunity to de-stress by drinking a cup of herbal tea, diffusing your favorite essential oil, lighting your favorite candle or simply taking a walk.  Also remember, that rest is the key to rejuvenation. Getting enough sleep during the holiday season might be a challenge but your mind and body will thank you if you maintain as regular a sleep schedule as possible.

Drink Your Water:

Water is vital to maintaining your health and wellness. It is also important to maintaining your waistline.  While you are out and about this holiday season, carry a bottle of water with you so that you can remain hydrated. Often we mistake thirst for hunger. By staying well hydrated, you will also avoid those moments when the food court calls your name. Drinking water will also help you to keep your mind sharp and your body energized.  Many of us indulge in holiday spirits during this time of year. Many alcoholic beverages contain high calories. It is recommended that you drink  more water when you are consuming alcohol than normal.

Eat Before You Go Out:

Whether you are going to the mall or to a holiday party, eating a small snack an hour before you leave the house can help you stay on track.  Have a small healthy snack like cheese and apples, or a green smoothie. By eating something before you go out, you won’t be so hungry that you are tempted to eat everything in sight.  You will be able to be social without piling three of those little plates with food.  Also, eat slowly. It takes your brain about twenty minutes to realize it’s full.

Don’t let the holidays stress you. These 5 Ways to Make the Most of the Holidays will help. @fitfaithlife

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Get Moving:

Over the next few weeks, our schedules will try to dictate how much exercise we get.  Try to maintain your exercise schedule. However, if getting to the gym seems like an impossibility, finding unconventional ways to keep moving will help you stay on track with your exercise plan. Walking the mall, taking the stairs and parking further away from the door are practical ways to get in some additional movement.  Other ways to get moving include, getting outside for a walk, raking leaves or shoveling snow.  Ultimately,  just don’t let the holidays keep you from maintaining your exercise routine.

Enjoy Time With Family and Friends:

The holidays can be a whirlwind of rushing from place to place but being with those we love is the best part of the season.  Take the time to recognize those you love and be thankful for all that you have been blessed with. If you are able to have your loved ones around you, if you are able to share a meal or give a gift, you already have the full measure of what the holiday season is all about.  So. if you eat that extra piece of pie or have double servings of stuffing, be kind to yourself.  Enjoying the moments of celebration in life will do more for you in the long term.

stay fit challenge

STAY FIT: 30 Days of Strengthening Your Connection to Jesus

Posted on by FitFaithLife

Working out my body is vital to my physical and mental well being. However, more important than that is my desire to stay spiritually fit.  Each day I begin my day by reading a devotion and scripture. I usually find this by using the YouVersion Bible app. They have so many unique devotionals that are available for FREE.  Next month we will be using the STAY FIT: 30 Days of Strengthening Your Connection to Jesus devotion to guide us in our daily study time. This devotional was created by the staff of North Point Ministries with the goal of “prioritizing staying spiritually fit by focusing on the most important relationship in our lives.”

I have found that I pour out so much of my self as a wife, a mom, a daughter, an educator, a friend and a blogger.  It is easy to become disconnected and distracted.   It is easy to stop growing when you are so focused on everyone else’s growth and development.  The need for a greater connection becomes apparent, especially when my patience grows short or my thoughts are not as forgiving as they could be.  I have learned that it is very difficult to pour out of an empty cup. If I am not growing, I can’t help anyone else grow either.  Spending time in God’s word is the first and best form of “self care”.  This 30 day “challenge” is a way of reconnecting to our ultimate source of power – God.

stay fit challenge
30 days of Strengthening Your Connection to Jesus

“When we stay connected to Jesus, we invite God to work in us and through us.” #fierceFaith #fierceFitness #STAYFIT @fitfaithlife

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During the month of October we invite you to STAY FIT and devote some time “strengthening your connection to Jesus”.  Join us on Facebook and on Instagram each day in October to share your insights and to encourage others as we grow stronger together and build each other up in our faith.