Step workout

I started a new workout routine by joining a step class. Eager to begin what I fondly remember as a good cardio workout, I arrived early, grabbed a step and risers and then promptly set it up.  A friend was joining me and I was excited! 

15 years ago I was a step fanatic and was sure that this was going to be another terrific class. It is amazing however, how much we forget when we remember the past!

The class began with the perky little instructor shouting, "Cmon on!" The beginning steps were easy, up right, up left, grapevine. I remembered those just fine, unfortunately everything after that was a work in process! Each time the instructor directed us to another step move I was carefully watching and then trying to mimic her. Either my age or co-ordination was working against me because my steps were 2 to 3 steps behind her direction. 

"C'mon, don't give up- jump shot, repeat quads, v step, circle, half circle turn etc. etc. etc! "  Trying my best I did what I could. I felt rather stupid as others in class seemed to anticipate her every direction.  I have so much to learn! 

The instructor went over the routine several times. She must have seen my uncoordinated steps, or the frantic look on my red face, or the fact that I was sweating from every part of my body! 

At one point I just stood there doing the simple right and left step up, hoping that I could jump in again and resume the routine. 

I have returned and completed my 2nd class and I have to say it was somewhat easier. For part of the class, I was actually in step with the class! Feeling confident that I was learning the steps I felt better! Of course the instructor threw in some new moves, so I was lost again! 

I am determined to learn these moves, anticipate the instructors moves and ultimately not fall off my step!

Learning anything new takes time and practice! 

This class reminded me of my relationship with Jesus! 

• He is the instructor. Psalm 32:8
• I must listen for his voice, leading and guiding me. John 10:27
• He is always going to go before me and show me the way! Isaiah 52:12
• I must watch Him to follow His every move. Ezekiel 20:19
• It will take practice to understand the steps that I must take. 2 Peter 3:18
• Sometimes I will feel foolish! I Corinthians 1:27

Guest Blog- Stefanie Brown

The Right Way.....

During my first trip to the UK, adjusting to the differences in transportation proved challenging. 

Cars travel on the opposite side of the road (opposite of side of what I’m used to, anyway).

The driver is on the right side of the car instead of the left. (I wish I had a dollar for every time I went to the right side of the car to hop in as the passenger).

Stop signs are present, yet rare, while roundabouts are bountiful (If you miss your turn, motion sickness is inevitable).

As far as parking… If your car fits ~ park (seriously…).

Less adjustment accompanied me during my second visit while my third trip over found me both familiar and comfortable riding along with anyone anywhere.

I simply had to get used to the British transportation system.  My way of thinking had to change.  I had to purposefully think each and every time I got into a car.  Enter left.  Stay on the left side of the road.  Count roundabout exits so not to miss the one we needed.  When I’m driving in the states, those thoughts don’t even cross my mind. 

Similarly, when we welcome Him into our lives, a new way of thinking accompanies His presence.  We change from driving life on the left side to the right.  We hop in the right side of the car, allowing Him to enter the left.  We allow Him to choose the “exits” for our lives, directing and “parking” us exactly as He designed.  For He promises…

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8 (NIV)

Having the opportunity to tour England and Wales would not have been possible if I refused to welcome the differences in transportation.  I would have really missed out on an amazing experience.  In comparison, if we don’t submit and allow Him to lead and direct us, we’ll miss out on an amazing life, one specifically created for us.

Because of Him,

Stefanie

You can read more about Stefanie's story and ministry at Uplifting Words

Sleepwalking Zzz

Something awoke me in the middle of the night. "What was that?", I whispered as I shook my husband awake. Glancing at the the half open bedroom door and the 1:30 time on the clock. I jumped out of bed, threw on a robe and darted out our bedroom door. Looking down the hallway all seemed well, yet in my spirit I sensed that something was terribly wrong. At that moment I felt a cool breeze coming from the living room. The front door was wide open!


What I saw was heart stopping! I couldn't believe my eyes! Walking down the middle of our neighborhood street was our 8 year old daughter Lissa. Her brown hair blowing in the wind, barefooted and wearing pajamas, (one of her dad's red t-shirts) walking in what seemed like a dream.  At that moment all of the advice I had heard about sleepwalkers came flooding into my mind. 

• Don't wake them!
• Don't startle them!

All I could think of was that my daughter was in the middle of the street and not awake! As gently as I could make my voice sound and still get her attention, I asked, "Where are you going Lissa?" To my surprise she turned and looked at me and matter of factly replied, "I'm going to Jeni's to get some sugar!" Jeni lived 10 minutes way from us!


For the next year be took extra precautions to protect our daughter from her sleepwalking habit.

• We added a lock higher up on the door.
• We put obstacles of chairs in the hallway.
• We always kept our bedroom door open .

I thank God for waking me up that night. He will lead and guide us even when we are sleeping.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip- he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you— the LORD is your shade at your right hand;the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121

How is God protecting you?

Is it in creating a new direction?

Closing or opening doors?

Changing a relationship?

A continued, deep feeling about something?

Repeated bible verse?

Changing your schedule?

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.”  Psalm 32:8

Father thank you for your protection over my life and my family. I praise you for watching over us even when we are sleeping. Thank you for giving us your Spirit who leads and guide us. Jann