My legs quiver as I step onto the sidewalk in front of my home. How can I launch out for a walk feeling so weak? I take a second step, knowing I have to go forward with my plan to regain my health by exercising. My motivation to exercise overpowers my temptation to stop. I gain strength in each additional step, as I begin my lesson in perseverance. But it will not be an easy journey. There are obstacles to overcome and goals to reach. Can I make it?

Renew. Exercise, like any worthwhile endeavor, demands strength and stamina. Neither of these attributes have been a part of my life for some time because of some stress-related health problems—like migraines, back pain, and insomnia.

The first morning I attempt my new exercise program, everything within me resists it, like opposite poles of two magnets. I would rather do just about anything than exercise. So, today I let temptation win. I stay home and feel guilty the rest of the day.

Resolve. By the next morning, my previous day’s failure serves as my primary motivating force. So, I lace-up my walking shoes, purchased just for this occasion, and I take a few minutes to stretch out the kinks in my stiff, achy body. Then, I walk slowly out of my garage and down the hill. I proudly accomplish my first goal. And the next thing I know, I’m crossing the street facing the next block.

Okay, this is going to be a breeze, I think. But by the time I turn the corner, another fear presents itself, as if to try to stop me in my tracks. Because of all the crime recently, an all-male construction crew working on a nearby house sends a chill of fear down my spine. And I hesitate to walk in front of them, since our neighborhood is somewhat isolated during the week during work hours. To remove this obstacle, I decide to change my route and proceed in another direction. So, I catch my breath, and I walk on.

As I walk uphill, I become short of breath. When I slow down to breathe, a gray squirrel catches my attention. He’s busy burying an acorn in my neighbor’s yard. I watch him as I walk by. When I look up, I’m already at the end of the street, about to turn the corner to complete another block.

Revive. I continue to accomplish small goals as I walk. In a short while, I resolve that I’ve gone far enough, and I return to my home. With my mind cleared by the fresh air, I sense my body weakening from the exercise. When I arrive home, I’m exhausted. But to my surprise, I feel invigorated by the experience. As I sit down for a cool glass of water before I shower, I recall the distance I’ve covered. I feel satisfied and proud of my accomplishment. And I’m grateful that I resisted the temptation to quit.

I find strength as I face my weaknesses each day. When I address my fears and trust in a power that is above my own ability, I’m able to accomplish more. In 2 Corinthians 12:8, Paul tells us that the Lord’s “power is made perfect in weakness.”

Although my day-to-day victories toward improving my health may seem like a small victory to some people, they represent a lifelong battle for me. And as I take one step at a time—by faith—I’m able to go the distance.

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint" (Isaiah 40:29-31).

© 2009 Karen Jordan All Rights Reserved (Repost from BLESSED Journal)

Photos/Karen Jordan (Tara, Aidan, and Ethan Ross)

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