Monday, November 19, 2012

STRENGTH TRAINING

I am learning a lot about diabetes.  I thought I was knowledgeable having a mother and grandmother with the disease but have come to realize there is a lot to learn.  I am grateful that I do not have diabetes and am not insulin dependent I am however, considered pre-diabetic and with my family history at increased risk so drastic changes are necessary.

At my doctors suggestion I began taking injections that would help stabilize my blood sugar.  I also changed my diet (what I choose to eat).  Both of these have helped but, regular exercise is critical.  I have not been consistent with the exercise.  I recently read that strength training is very useful for stabilizing blood sugar.  God made our bodies so incredibly intricate.  I read about King Asa in 2 Chronicles 16:9a, Hanani tells him, "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”  I have to be fully committed to all three, medication, diet and exercise, for the program to be successful. 

This blog began from my desire to have my physical and spiritual body in balance.  I love to exercise but I can never seem to find the time.  A friend told me that we make time for those things that have priority in our lives.  I agree except I spend a majority of my time at work.  As I strive for balance I must dedicate time alone with God, time spent exercising and time spent eating balanced meals.  I was encouraged when I read of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.  Although this verse talks of being strengthened by food and traveling a long time the incredible part to me is that if you read before this Elijah is mocking the gods of Baal and becomes witness to God performing a miracle calling fire down from heaven consuming an offering.   After witnessing this, Elijah is threatened by Queen Jezabel and, in fear, ran for his life.  The angel of the Lord had awakened him to eat the food to strengthen him for his journey.  It amazes me that after seeing God perform such a miracle that a mere queen would be able to threaten Elijah but the same thing happens to us every day. 

Just as Elijah had a moment (he had more than one) of weakness and ran in fear, we too have the confidence of knowing that God will meet us right where we are.  He provides all that we need to do His work and accomplish all that He created us to do.  Philippians 4:19 And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

I intend to start strength training but have no idea where to begin so, my friends, if you have any suggestions PLEASE send them my way.  In the mean time, I now have set up an appointment to meet at the park everyday at 7 to walk--you are welcome to join me anytime.  There is nothing like public knowledge for one to be held accountable. 

As I take each step I will be praying for strength, health and wholeness through my (and your) inner being.  Ephesians 3:16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

Taking every step in faith!