Day 21

Developing and starting an exercise program are the easy steps.  The hardest part of any exercise program is being consistent which means maintaining some level of motivations.  There is some excitement and anticipation when starting new exercise program. But what happens weeks later, when it seems you aren't any closer to your personal goals or life sends you a curve ball that knocks you off your tracks.  There are some steps that you can use that will help your overcome those road blocks in your exercise program.

     1.  Setting Goals - Having goals keeps us focused on our program even on those days that we just don't feel like exercising.
     2.  Write it Down - First you want to write your goals down, then develop your own exercise log.  Fitness improvements are gradual so having a log helps you keep a record of how much you have improved.
     3.  Pick a Time - Put your exercise time in your calendar.  Taking car of yourself is as important as any thing we do.
     4.  Work out with a Friend - Meeting a friend to exercise will help you both from slipping or quitting.  It is also a great way to stay connected with your friend and still get your exercise in.
     5.  Be Flexible - Events do happen in our lives whether it comes from family, work, friend, holidays or getting sick.  We need to be flexible enough with our exercise program so that we can deal with personal life issues and still take care of our selves.
     6.  Have Fun - This seems silly, but this may be the most important part of your program.  Pick and exercise you enjoy.  If you like to walk, then walk, or if you like to swim....swim.  You are more likely to continue to exercise if you are doing something you enjoy.

Once you have started your program, and are being consistent with your exercise, results will happen and it becomes part of your weekly activity.  What a great way to model behavior to your family and friends, showing them that you are special, you body is a gift and taking care of it is important.

- Thom

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The Purpose Driven Life - Finding Your Purpose


CHAPTER 21 - PROTECTING YOUR CHURCH


It is your job to protect the unity of your church. Unity is the soul of fellowship.

• Focus on what we have in common, not our differences
• Be realistic in your expectations
• Choose to encourage rather than criticize
• Refuse to listen to gossip
• Practice God's method for conflict resolution
• Support your pastors and leaders

Point to Ponder: It is my responsibility to protect the unity of my church. 

Verse to Remember: "Let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together." 

Question to Consider: What am I personally doing to protect unity in my church family right now?