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? 

Isaiah 40:29-31 promises, “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak ... those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength … they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Exercise, like any worthwhile endeavor, demands strength and stamina. 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 other than exercise. So, I let temptation win. Today, I stay home and feel guilty the rest of the day.

Motivation. 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 jog slowly out of my garage. My first goal has been accomplished. And the next thing I know, I’m crossing the street facing the next block.

Obstacles. 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. There’s an all male construction crew building a house nearby. Because of all the crime recently, I find myself fearful of walking in front of them. Our neighborhood is somewhat isolated during the week when many are at work. But I hold my breath and walk on. To move this obstacle out of the way, I change my route and proceed in another direction.

Distraction. 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.

Goals. I continue to accomplish small goals as I walk. In a short while, I’ve gone far enough, and I decide to return to my home. My mind is cleared by the fresh air, but my body is affected by the exercise.

When I arrive home, I’m exhausted, but surprisingly refreshed. As I sit down for a cool glass of water before I shower, I recall the distance I’ve covered. I feel good about myself, and I’m grateful that I resisted the temptation to quit.

Strength. I find strength as I face my weaknesses each day. In 2 Corinthians 12:8, Paul tells us that the Lord’s “power is made perfect in weakness.”

I discover when I address my fears and trust in a power that is above my own ability, I’m able to accomplish more. Although this battle to improve my health may seem like just a small victory to some, it has great value to me. In taking one step at a time by faith, I’m able to go the distance.

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Update. Recently, I found this piece that I wrote a few years ago. I’m happy to report that although I still have my moments of resistance, I’m walking several days a week now. I discovered so many positive benefits to walking. Besides being good for my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, I love being able to exercise on the trails here in The Village. I've even take up a new hobby—photography. Check out some of my photos on my Capture Arkansas profile!

Can you relate to my exercise struggle? Tell me about your experience—leave a comment at the end of this post.

YouTube/MercyMe "Move"