Today’s podcast episode is inspired by the Mercy Me song “Even If”. In the song, the singer acknowledges that God can take away any troubles anyone may have. Often, He chooses not to rid us of our problems exactly when we want to be rid of them. But even then, the singer’s hope is still in God.

I can relate to Mercy Me singer Bart Millard’s predicament. His purpose in life is to bring a positive message to the world through his music. Day to day he goes in front of people and sings his heart out. In good times, his strong faith carries him through with ease. But in bad times, when he’s not feeling so hot, he might rather be singing the blues.

My purpose in life is similar. I want to bring a positive message and inspire people to improve their health and well-being. But I have my ups and downs as well.

But the essence of faith is keeping that hope regardless of circumstances. To continue when everything is going my way requires no faith at all. The real challenge comes when things are beyond my control. That’s when my faith gets tested.

Fitness is challenging, if I’m doing it right, even in the good times. To get motivated to exercise when I am depressed is even harder. But sometimes, it’s the doing that helps me rise above my woes.

Persistence is faith, the difference between success and failure.

Mercy Me’s “Even If”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6fA35Ved-Y

Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXy50exHjes

Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0_der_5hRM&list=PLskKWhn-LBTgTBPZZrufHT5vn34pMqqTi

Recorded January 7, 2019.

Weight (change since Jan 2018): 210 (-64)
Workout time: 172 Minutes
Total Distance (total since Nov 2017): 6.54 Miles (365.46)
Steps: 15,320
Muscle Mass (change since Aug 2018): 155.88 (+13)
Body Fat: 25.7%
Daily Sleep Duration 7-day Avg: 8 hours
2019 Goal: 15% Body Fat