Starting Small

Starting Small

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand. Zechariah 4:10

In the Old Testament book of Zechariah, the phrase “small beginnings” refers to laying the foundation of the Temple in the rebuilding of Jerusalem. We often apply it to enterprises we undertake in jobs or ministry, but we can also apply the principle to small beginnings in taking better care of our bodies. One thing I love about walking is that we can start small: We don’t have to change into special clothes, pay to join a gym, and work out for an hour to get fit. Instead, we can aim for twenty minutes (even two ten-minute intervals) a day of brisk walking and build from there.

Doctors used to think that we had to do aerobic exercise for more than an hour to receive any benefits. But now research has proven that just thirty minutes a day of brisk walking (as if you are hurrying to get somewhere) will produce a good level of fitness.

How can you manage that? If you have children, trade babysitting time with a neighbor. Walking with a partner is a great motivator. Walk your dog. Our canine friends need to move to stay healthy as well. On a Saturday, you might put your small children in a stroller and with your husband or friend, walk to a park or a nearby coffee shop. If you’re one of those people who best connect with God in the outdoors, try prayer walking. Most of all, make exercise fun. If walking isn’t your cup of tea, find something you do enjoy. It could be strength training, Pilates, hiking, tennis, or step aerobics. What matters is that you get moving and keep it up for a lifetime. Your body will thank you! —CHERI

Creator of all life, I want to be a good steward of the body you have entrusted to me. Help me to respect my body, to treat it kindly, to move it, and to do what I can to keep it strong and help it thrive for your glory.

Exercise is essential to get oxygen to your cells. God created us to be physically active. Oxygen brings life to our body, detoxifies our blood, strengthens our immune system, heightens concentration and alertness, rejuvenates and revitalizes unhealthy cells, slows down the aging process, and helps depression.

—SHARI ROSE SHEPHERD, INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER AND WRITER