Fail

Well, week one was a fail! In many ways this week was met with small victories, however. I exercised more days than not, and I ate more frequent meals :) I realize that my work days consist of more discipline. I suppose it is due to my crazy schedule overload on "off"'days. Whatever the case, I am moving in the right direction! I will still examine my results after day 30  but may evaluate my results after 30 days of consistent exercise as well- if there are any results! 

Physical discipline is important! But spiritual discipline far surpasses it. I have felt great spiritually this past week, since I have been able to enjoy time with The Lord in His Word and presence through prayer and time of meditation. So much of our victories in this life depend upon our mental success and mastery, as most would agree. If I am spiritually drained, I do not have the motivation I need to love God, love my family, serve others with compassion and gentleness- much less bodily exercise! Mental, emotional & spiritual distress wears you down; it's exhaustive! 

I have thoroughly enjoyed a new study I've been wading through on the disciplines of a godly woman as seen in Titus 2:3. One discipline, in particular, is the discipline of my mouth, the words I speak. Our verbal conduct is a good thermometer of our inward parts, our heart's bent and character. I will be meditating, pondering with great purpose, on the following verse this week: 

"The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." (Luke 6:45 ESV)

Especially note the last portion of verse 45... Out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks... The words and tone in which we articulate those words are an inside look into our minds and heart! Scary! Especially if our words are ones of bitterness, gossip, or frequent complaints and murmuring. I want all of my words, verbal and non verbal, to communicate love and grace, mercy and patience. I want people to love Jesus more because my words lead them to the cross. 

To recap, spiritual disciplines far surpass physical rigidity. Often, your bodily regimen will be affected by your emotional & spiritual state of mind, for better or for worse. One such godly discipline to start with is our mouths :) This week, REALLY listen to the speech content of the people around you. Consciously note what's in their hearts by what they speak about. What do they love? What upsets their core? What rattles their peace? Next, evaluate yourself. Perhaps ask someone very close to you these questions to glean from their perspective. (Don't be upset by their honesty) Are you a reflection of Christ? Pray for wisdom and power to change your heart thereby changing the words and tones that proceed from your mouth. Words are powerful, indeed. In the book of James in the bible, James, the brother of Jesus, says we can light a forest fire with our tongues! Dear friends, may we light a passion for Christ with these words we speak! 

And may we do more lunges this week ;)