Ep. 43:

Welcome back, Renewed, to another episode of "Renewed Strength," your go-to podcast for exploring the intersection of fitness and faith. Today, we're diving into a topic that every fitness enthusiast encounters at some point: pain and injuries. Yes, they will happen on our fitness journeys, but take heart, because you'll get through it.

In our pursuit of physical excellence, we often face setbacks in the form of pain and injuries. It's easy to become discouraged when our progress is interrupted by a strain, sprain, or more severe injury. However, it's crucial to remember that these challenges are a natural part of the journey. They shape us, teach us resilience, and, ultimately, make us stronger.

In John 16:33, Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Similarly, in our fitness pursuits, we will face trouble, but we must have faith that we can overcome it. These hurdles are not the end of the road but rather bumps that teach us patience and perseverance.

I urge you to embrace each challenge with a spirit of determination. When injuries arise, because they will, allow yourself the grace to heal. Recognize that growth often comes through trials, and your journey to recovery is a testament to your strength and resilience. Let this be a reminder to treat your body with care and respect, as it is a temple that deserves nurturing and attention.

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Ep. 42:

Welcome to another episode of “Renewed Strength,” where we delve into the intersection of faith and fitness, exploring the motivations that guide our journey. Today, we're looking at a very necessary transformation—from being driven by negative emotions to being fueled by love.

Reflecting on my past, I realize that much of my motivation stemmed from anger, disappointment, and even hatred. At times, I was driven by the need to prove people wrong, to show them I was worth something—that I was worthy of respect or love. This motivation was rooted in moments when I felt belittled or dismissed because of my physical appearance or abilities. Whether I disliked how others treated me when I was overweight or I resented failing at a physical task, hatred, anger, and disappointment propelled me forward. However, as I grew in my faith as Christians, I realized that these should not be the foundations of our motivation. 1 Corinthians 16:14 reminds us, “Do everything in love.” This scripture invites us to shift our perspective and Embrace a greater purpose..

Instead of being driven by negative emotions, let's consider love as our driving force. Love for oneself is a powerful motivator. When we love ourselves, we choose to treat our bodies with respect and care, nurturing them as temples of the Holy Spirit. Love for our families is another compelling force. I love my wife and children deeply, and I want to be there to protect them, play with them, pick them up as they grow, and witness their milestones. I want to be alive and healthy to embrace my grandchildren someday, no matter how big they become.

Love motivates us to pursue fitness, not out of fear of inadequacy but because of the joy and fulfillment it brings. By transforming our core motivations, we also choose to free ourselves from the grip of anger, hatred, and disappointment on our hearts. And this choice helps us build a legacy of strength and health that honors God and the people we cherish.

This week, I encourage you to examine the motivations behind your fitness journey. Are they grounded in negativity, or are they fueled by love? Let love be the motivation that directs your path toward holistic wellness, enriching your life and the lives of those around you.

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Ep. 41:

Welcome to another episode of "Renewed Strength," where we seek to bridge the gap between our physical fitness journey and our spiritual walk with God. Today, we draw inspiration from 1 Corinthians 15:9-10, where Paul humbly reflects on his own past and the grace granted to him: “For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect.”

In the realm of fitness, as in our spiritual lives, it is essential to recognize that everyone has something valuable to offer, regardless of their current physical condition or past experiences. Contrary to popular belief, many individuals who struggle with weight or fitness issues often possess an incredible wealth of knowledge about health and wellness. They have read extensively, asked countless questions, and conducted thorough research in their quest to improve their own health. They may not have yet the discipline or they may not be at that stage of readiness yet but they may have a lot more knowledge than you think

Similarly, in our spiritual journeys, those who may be overlooked due to their circumstances—be it homelessness, addiction, or a troubled past—can hold profound insights and understanding of faith. God's grace extends to all, transcending societal judgments and external appearances.

In our fitness communities, let us be open to learning from those who may not fit the conventional image of health. Their insights and experiences can enrich our own understanding and encourage us to approach our wellness journey with empathy and humility. Just as in our spiritual walk, we're called to listen and learn from everyone, recognizing that God's grace empowers each of us to contribute meaningfully, regardless of our backgrounds.

This week, I invite you to seek out conversations with those who may not fit the typical mold of fitness or spiritual leaders. Listen to their stories, learn from their experiences, and embrace the wisdom they have to offer. Let us break down barriers, fostering a community where everyone’s voice is valued.

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Ep. 40:

Welcome, troop, to another episode of “Renewed Strength,” where we explore the intersection of faith and fitness. Today, we draw inspiration from the old-school hymn "Great is Thy Faithfulness," focusing on the line, “All I have needed, Your hands have provided.” This powerful reminder encourages us to reflect on the abundance and provision we already possess, especially in our fitness journeys. We should also remember the shepherd's prayer from Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” reminding us that we are equipped with everything we need.

In our fitness journeys, we often focus on what we lack. Even before-and-after photos highlight deficiencies and improvements. We’ve even adopted the term “gains,” which is, lwts be real, an antonym to the word lack. One example of a scenario might be, “I didn’t have a butt, now I do, and here’s how you can too.” Listen, you already had a butt—it may not have been your ideal butt, but it was there—or else you wouldn’t have been able to walk. God provides everything we need, and He continues to do it every day that we wake up.

It’s natural to seek fitness progress and new personal bests. However, it’s important to remember that our motivation should not stem from a sense of lack or inadequacy. Instead, our motivation should come from a place of gratitude and respect, striving to do right by the bodies we’ve been given. This, troop, is a mindset reboot.

It’s important to recognize that God created us whole and complete, equipped with everything we need to thrive. Our fitness journey should be about celebrating and enhancing the capabilities we already possess, not about fixing perceived flaws. By focusing on our strengths and appreciating the incredible design we embody, we can pursue our goals with gratitude and confidence, knowing that we are already perfectly made.

This week, I encourage you to appreciate where you are in your fitness journey and recognize the blessings of the present moment. Take a moment to be grateful for your current capabilities and cherish what you possess and how you look at this moment. Let your desire to progress be fueled not by the feeling of lack, but by gratefulness and the desire to steward well what God has already given you.

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Ep. 39:

Welcome to another episode of “Renewed Strength,” where we explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit (and yes, interconnectednessis a word...look it up). Today, we’re focusing on the concept of wellness—an exploration of emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. As we delve into this topic, let's look at the scripture that sparked this revelation for me: 3 John 1:2: the NIV says, “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” I also like the New King James Version that's says it like this, "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in good health, just as your soul prospers."

Wellness is a holistic approach that encompasses various dimensions of our being, each contributing to our overall health and vitality.

Emotional Wellness

Emotional wellness involves understanding and managing our feelings, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with resilience. By fostering a healthy emotional state, we create a nurturing space for our faith to flourish, enabling us to better reflect Christ’s love and compassion.

Mental Wellness

Mental wellness, on the other hand, is about cultivating a healthy mindset and engaging in practices that promote mental clarity and positivity. By maintaining mental wellness, we are better equipped to focus on our spiritual journey, deepening our relationship with Christ through prayer, meditation, and study of the Word.

Physical Wellness

Physical wellness is also crucial, as it involves caring for our bodies through proper nutrition, exercise, and rest. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and by honoring them, we enhance our ability to serve God and others with energy and enthusiasm.

Spiritual Wellness

Finally, spiritual wellness is about nurturing our relationship with God, seeking His guidance, and aligning our lives with His will. It is the foundation that supports all other aspects of wellness, as a strong spiritual life anchors us in faith and purpose.

Wellness is about achieving balance and harmony in all areas of our lives. As we strive for wellness, we strengthen our walk with Christ, allowing His presence to permeate every aspect of our being. Let's remember that wellness is not a destination but a continuous path that nurtures every aspect of our being. Let’s embrace this journey towards wellness, knowing that it enhances not only our own lives but also our ability to impact the world around us with Christ’s love.

As we go into this week, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on these elements of wellness in your own life. Where might you find a little more balance? How can you nurture these aspects of your life to cultivate a holistic sense of wellbeing?

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Ep. 38:

Welcome to another empowering episode of "Renewed Strength," where faith and fitness intersect to inspire and uplift us on our life journeys. Today, we're diving into the world of bodybuilding competitions, where athletes are judged on their physiques and performance. These competitions can sometimes mirror life, where we feel the pressure to prove our worth and meet certain standards. But here’s the good news: in God’s eyes, you are already enough.

In the world of bodybuilding, athletes are meticulously judged on their physique, symmetry, and aesthetics. They endure intense training and strict diets to present the best version of themselves on stage, hoping to earn approval and recognition. Similarly, in life, we often feel the need to prove ourselves, to flex our strengths, and to meet the expectations of others. We chase after validation, worrying that we might not be good enough.

But God offers us a different perspective. As I listen to Israel Houghton'Houghton's song, "Accepted," I'm reminded that God doesn’t require us to cut weight or flex just right. He doesn’t measure us by our achievements or appearances. Instead, He accepts us as we are—flaws and all. Our worth isn’t determined by our performance or how others see us. In God’s eyes, we are loved and valued simply because we are His.

This message of acceptance is liberating. It allows us to embrace who we truly are without the fear of judgment. We don’t need to meet worldly standards or prove our worth to others. God’s love is unconditional and everlasting. He sees beyond our imperfections and invites us to rest in His grace.

This week, I encourage you to let go of the need for external validation. Embrace the truth that you are already accepted by God. Reflect on the ways you can live authentically, free from the pressure to conform to others' expectations. Remember, your value is not measured by what you do, but by who you are in Christ.

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Ep. 37:

Welcome renewed family to another episode of "Renewed Strength," where we journey together through the mixture of faith and fitness. Today, we're examining an extremely important yet often overlooked aspect of both areas: rest. Inspired by Matthew 11:28, we’ll explore the profound benefits of rest in our fitness routines and spiritual lives.

In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites us, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This divine invitation reminds us that rest is not just necessary but a gift. In our fast-paced lives, we often mistake rest for laziness or lack of productivity. However, rest is crucial for rejuvenation, healing, and growth—both physically and spiritually.

In the fitness world, rest is as important as exercise. It allows our muscles to recover and grow stronger. Without proper rest, we risk overtraining, which can lead to fatigue, decreased performance, and even injury. Rest days are when our bodies repair and rebuild, leading to increased strength and endurance. They provide a time for reflection and goal-setting, ensuring that we return to our workouts refreshed and ready to push our limits.

Similarly, spiritual rest allows us to recharge our souls. When we pause to rest in God, we find peace and relief from the burdens we carry. Spiritual rest is about trusting God with our worries and allowing His peace to fill us. It’s in these moments of rest that we reconnect with our faith, gain clarity, and find the strength to face life’s challenges.

This week, I invite you to embrace rest in both your fitness and spiritual journeys. Allow yourself the time to recharge, trusting that rest is part of the path to renewal. Reflect on how you can incorporate moments of rest into your daily routine—whether it's taking a rest day from your workout or spending quiet time in prayer and meditation.

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Ep. 36:

Welcome to another episode of "Renewed Strength," where faith and fitness unite to guide us on our journey towards spiritual and physical excellence. Today, we’re diving into an inspiring analogy that draws parallels between high-level athletes and our relationship with God, exploring how He is the ultimate sponsor of our lives.

In the world of sports, elite athletes often have sponsors who provide them with gear, equipment, and support, helping to enhance their performance. In return, athletes are expected to represent these brands with integrity and honor. They become ambassadors, embodying the values and image of their sponsors. But what happens when we apply this concept to our spiritual lives?

God, in His infinite grace, acts as our divine sponsor. He provides us with everything we need, not just for training our bodies, but for nurturing our spirits. His support is unconditional, and His gifts are abundant. Unlike earthly sponsors who may drop an athlete for failing to meet expectations, God’s love and support remain steadfast, even when we falter. All He asks in return is that we represent Him by sharing His love and grace with those around us.

As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of His love. This means demonstrating kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to all, even those who may not treat us kindly. Our actions, words, and attitudes should reflect the character of the One who sponsors us. We don't have to be perfect or achieve high levels of performance to be part of God’s team. All we need is faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior, believing in His life, death, and resurrection.

This week, I encourage you to reflect on how you can better represent God in your daily life. Consider the ways you can share His love and grace with others, whether through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply being present for someone in need. Remember, your life is a testimony to God’s goodness, and you have the power to inspire others through the way you live.

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Ep. 35:

Welcome to another episode of "Renewed Strength," where we explore ways to fortify both our bodies and spirits. Today, we’re diving into the concept of building strength, not just physically, but spiritually as well.

Why do we build strength? For athletes, it’s often about enhancing performance and overcoming greater resistance. This can mean improving speed, increasing endurance, or enhancing agility. It's also crucial for preventing injuries by stabilizing joints and supporting muscles. Athletes may focus on building strength to reach peak performance levels, break personal records, or compete at higher levels.

For everyday individuals, it's about enduring the weight of daily life—like lifting our children, carrying groceries, or helping push a car with a dead battery. It's about maintaining independence—rising from a chair or the couch on our own. Building physical strength is essential for navigating these tasks and preventing injuries that can arise from simple daily activities.

But what about our spiritual strength? Ephesians 6:10 encourages us to "be strong in the Lord." Spiritual strength is crucial for facing the challenges and battles in the spiritual realm. It empowers us to withstand the storms of life, to be a beacon of support for others, and to resist the temptations and attacks from the enemy. The beauty of spiritual strength is that while we play a role in nurturing it, the bulk of our strength is a gift from God. That's why the scripture continues, "Be strong in the Lord, and in His mighty power." Personally, I like the wording in the King James version that says, "In the power of His might." We must invite Him into our lives, allowing His power to fill our hearts and guide our actions.

This week, I challenge you to open your heart wider to God's presence. Invite Him into every corner of your life. As you do, you’ll find access to a divine strength that empowers you to stand firm against any opposition.

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Ep. 34:

Welcome to another episode of “Renewed Strength,” where we find harmony between our spiritual and physical journeys. Today, we are delving into a subject that comes through in both areas.—being a light, even in the gym.

In Philippians 2:12-16, the Apostle Paul encourages us to “work out” our salvation with reverence, reminding us that God is at work within us to fulfill His purpose. He urges us to do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that we may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Paul calls us to shine like stars in the sky, holding firmly to the word of life.

In our fitness journeys, this message is both meaningful and practical. The gym, a place of personal growth, can also be where we let our light shine. Whether it’s offering a kind word to a fellow gym-goer, showing patience when equipment is occupied, or simply maintaining a positive attitude, our presence can light up the space around us.

As we pursue our fitness goals, let’s strive to be the light that inspires others. Our actions and attitudes can be a testimony to our faith, encouraging those around us to see the beauty in their own journeys. By shining our light, we contribute to a community that uplifts and supports one another, reflecting the love and grace we’ve received.

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