FIT Fridays: Get out there and live!!!

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

Hey everyone,
It's time for a FIT Friday post! If you're new to FIT Fridays, please read our week one challenge before you jump in where we are now. Faithful friends, thank you for understanding the past couple weeks while I was away with my family. I prayed for my FIT Friday buddies throughout our vacation and I hope you are having a fabulous, fun, energetic, healthy summer!

At Yosemite last week, I was AWED by God's majesty. As we hiked up the granite mountain, I could find no words to describe His handiwork. Simply inspiring. So many times, we stopped, just to look. Five of us, hushed by the enormity of the space around us. We are so small. I felt insignificant against that backdrop. Yet God's word is clear. He cares more for us than anything else in all creation! (Matt. 6:26)

Hiking up those mountains, I was constantly reminded that God created the world for us -- for you and for me. He created this world for our enjoyment! Just as parents prepare for a new child by painting the nursery, selecting just the right crib, decor, even hospital homecoming outfit, God prepared this world -- the whole thing -- for us. WOW! What are we doing with that?

• When did you last go to a park, just to walk and enjoy?
• When did you last walk through your neighborhood, listening to the sounds of the birds and bugs or enjoying the bright colors of summer flowers?
• When did you last walk along a beach squishing sand between your toes? Or watch the waves break against the beach?

Since our trip, I realize exercise does not have to be mundane! Instead of riding the exercise bike every day -- staring at the television as we log the time -- why not head outdoors and enjoy what God made while we enjoy the bodies He gave us? I got a better workout hiking through mountains than I ever have on an exercise machine! And it didn't "hurt" the same way! Enthralled by the ever changing view, I used my whole body to climb those rocks -- up three miles before getting to go down the first day -- and I never felt weary. 

This week, get out there (yes, the heat is way up -- go early in the morning and watch the world come to life as the sun climbs into the sky or go late as the sun sets and the noise of the world hushes, replaced by the song of the crickets)! Run, walk, hike through a hilly park. Enjoy God's majesty. Your routine won't get boring! You'll go farther than you ever thought you could.

As to nutrition, I'll write more on that next week. For now, keep drinking water -- lots of water! Perhaps it's time to "splurge" on a water bottle that makes you smile. Really! I have a pink stainless steel water bottle covered in flowers. I love it. My son selected a black, gray and silver "camo" water bottle and drinks twice as much as he used to. Enjoy that water drinking!!!!

While you're at it, head out to the farmer's market. Why not eat the freshest fruits and vegetables now that they're readily available? My NC friends, just stop at a corner fruit stand and load up! Fresh fruit and veggies are hard to beat for flavor and healthfulness!

Spiritually, remind yourself that you are special to God. Read scripture on His creation and majesty (the book of Psalms is loaded with these kind of verses). He made this world for YOU! I pray that you will realize that the world is not a burden (we make the burden by overloading ourselves with responsibilities). God's creation is a gift! Memorize a couple verses that speak to your heart. Meditate on them as you get out there and live!

Please share your favorite verse on God's majesty with the rest of us! 

Dear God,

I am simply awed by your majesty. Thank you for making such a beautiful place for us to live. Thank you for the variety of landscapes you created, just for our enjoyment. Help me remember to enjoy the world you created for me. Fill me with inspiration and commitment to keep getting healthier so I can truly enjoy the life you have given me. Remind me, Lord, to eat healthy. Convict me when the cookies tempt me -- and remind me that you created peaches, watermelon, strawberries, and so much more, just so I can eat fun food. I commit my health -- my life -- to you. Be with me as I continue to get healthier, so my life can bring you the glory you deserve.

In Jesus' name I pray,

Amen