There may be times during which you just can’t exercise the same way you are accustomed to working out. It could be that you’re recovering from a recent injury. Maybe a chronic injury is rearing its ugly head again. Maybe you haven’t worked out in a while, and what was once familiar is no longer. Remember, with Jesus, there is no shame.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 a (NIV)
When we feel like we aren’t where we “should” be or where we once were, we need to call those lies out for what they are—Satan is trying to make us feel “less than.” But our God wants our eyes on Him. He wants us to listen to His truth. We are beautiful as we are. We are God’s masterpiece. Our bodies are designed to move. Yes, our flesh will fail us, but we need to lean on Him for strength and He will show us the way. He gives us a spirit of power, love and self-discipline, not one that makes us weak or fearful (2 Tim. 1:7).
So, after we’ve placed our eyes on Him, we need to modify our exercises so that we can remain active and moving. Ask your group fitness instructor or personal trainer for modifications of common exercises so that your injury can heal or so it won’t be aggravated. You can always look up exercise modifications online as well. But most importantly, renew your mind. Remind yourself that although the modifications may not be equal in intensity to the original exercises, the goal is to move the same muscle groups so that you may love and serve God longer and better.
