“Is He Lord of our decisions?” During my time in Kansas back in 2020, I had several opportunities to chat with my brother, the Coach. One thing we discussed was calming yourself down before making a decision. He advises his athletes to do this during […]
Category: Sweat
Signs and Shadows
My coach issued a 10k-a-day step challenge to all of his athletes. I love to walk, especially outdoors. So my hand went up quickly to join in. Besides, I know from personal experience that walking and strength training are a great complement to one another. […]
Weapons of Righteousness
Last week I had a six-week checkup with my surgeon. He cleared me to begin strength training. He cautioned me about keeping the weights light and to begin with 2 lbs. Two pounds? Perhaps it sounds like nothing to you, but to me, it’s a […]
Not Today
The sound of their laughter is like fingernails on a chalkboard. “Ain’t nobody got time for this! Not today, satan.” Some days, I have to fight off rejection when left out of a conversation. When their heads touch as private jokes are whispered to one […]
The Hidden Corset
The secret to our waistline lies in our corset muscle, the transverse abdominis. This is the deepest layer of the abdominal muscles and the only one with muscle fibers that run side to side. This inner ab muscle creates a “cinching” effect. Strengthening this muscle […]
What Did Jesus Manifest?
Are there any Princess Bride fans here? If so, you know the word that Inigo is talking about, “Inconceivable!” That was my reaction after reading John 17 and seeing the word manifested. Since I’m that woman who loves reading the dictionary, I discovered ‘manifest’ doesn’t […]
Calloused Hands, Not Calloused Hearts
I left the soft-hand life behind last year. On deadlift days, chalk mixes with sweat filling the ridges of my hardened callouses. Pulling 280lbs off the floor requires hands that can handle the pressure. Hands harden in response to training. Callouses help protect our hands […]
Her Arms Are Strong for Her Tasks
Strong arms. That was my first fitness goal. I wish I could pass it off as a godly endeavor. But, it was pure vanity. I was 50 years old, leading worship at my church, and I did not want my arms to jiggle when I […]
Are You Strong Enough?
Spanish Lookout is a Mennonite community in Belize that resembles a typical small midwestern town in America. I’d stopped at five different locations, unsure what I was looking for, a dress for church, new shoes, or maybe a book? No, a word from God. I […]
Ice, Ice, Baby!
I came home with two bags of ice, a stupid ’90s song stuck in my head, and a dread-filled heart. I read about the benefits of ice baths and reluctantly decided to give it a try. That night I conquered my fear of bathing in […]