Dr. Michael C. Crawford: May Flowers & Faith

Senior Pastor, Dr. Michael C. Crawford

Sunday Mornings 10:30 AM Sunday Evenings 6:00 PM Wednesday Evenings Adults/Youth/Children 6:00 PM

300 S Irby St, Florence www.fbcflorence.org

May Flowers & Faith

written by Dr. Michael C. Crawford, First Baptist Church of Florence "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole of creation." - Matthew 11:28

Perhaps you have heard the saying, "April showers bring May flowers." In warmer and southern climates such as ours, this saying is normally true. However, it is believed that this phrase is rooted more in meteorology than it is in botany. In other words, this phrase is used to help us to get through, what is often referred to as the dreariness of the rainy season, by focusing upon the sun-filled days and growth that comes in the merry month of May. Metaphorically, it means to push through the difficult times of life, looking forward to better times ahead. I suggest that we examine this phrase from a theological perspective, along with a key truth that may be derived from botany. Most years, we celebrate our resurrected Lord during the month of April, although Easter has been known to come in March. Like the April showers, there are some events that occur during the Holy Week observance that can seem dreary. For example, the weeping of Jesus as He overlooked Jerusalem; Peter denying Jesus on three occasions, prior to the rooster crowing; and of course, the suffering and Crucifixion of Christ on Golgotha’s Hill. However, when we focus upon the outcome, then our outlook changes. The outcome is the empty tomb and our resurrected Lord, so the outlook is not one of dreariness, but of faith. Christ’s victory over sin and death assures us of our victory when we place our faith in Him. Perhaps you are wondering where this key truth of botany comes in. Here it is. Life begins in the seed of the plant. The warmth of the soil and those April showers hasten the seed to germinate, take root, and grow. It is in the process of maturing that we find the flowering of our plants. The flowers of May are a showcase of color and pleasing fragrances that stem from the life that began as a seed and received proper care. April showers bring May flowers. So, why a lesson on Easter in this publication for May, and why am I bringing up this old English proverb, "April showers bring May flowers?" As I think about the resurrection of Christ as a central tenet of our Christian faith, I am reminded of the planting of seeds. Believing in Jesus and in His bodily resurrection is just the beginning of our faith. The beginning of our life in Christ is like a seed that has been planted. Care is required and so it must be watered, perhaps some nutrients added to the soil, and plenty of sunlight. This seed must germinate and grow, so that the showcase of God’s grace may be known. This is accomplished by the Holy Spirit as He works in us and through us, to grow us in the likeness of Jesus. A Chrisitan in full bloom shares the grace of God through worship, prayer, various ministries, missions, Bible study, fellowship, spiritual disciplines, and the list goes on. However, this bloom is never more beautiful or fragrant than when the Gospel message is shared with others. In April, we celebrated Easter. Now, let us continue to share the grace of God and the Gospel message to those in need. April showers bring May flowers.

Setting Personal Fitness GOALS

story by Cynthia Ford

May I introduce five impactful steps to help you get fit and stay fit? In May, there is a massive focus on fitness. Often fitness is a trending thought at the beginning of a new year and during the spring. Some fitness journeys focus on preparing to have the bestlooking body for the summer. However, many other fitness goals are long-term with hopes of creating consistency and a healthier life.

MIND OVER MATTER

The number one reason individuals quit their fitness goal is their mindset. To achieve any goal, there must be a renewed mindset with a desire to start and a drive to continue. Before beginning any fitness goals, you must encourage yourself and be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Use those strengths and weaknesses to create the best plan for you. If you think you will fail, you will. If you believe you will succeed, you will succeed. Create a realistic plan by outlining specific goals you desire to accomplish and noting certain steps to reach that goal. For instance, it is not practical to set a goal to lose one hundred pounds in seven days. Rapid weight reduction would not be a healthy route, and it is impossible to reduce that amount within seven days. As you create the realistic plan, affirm your plan with statements of what you will do, not what you desire or plan to do.

• I will participate in an active workout plan five days a week. • I will lose two inches within two months. • I will lose five pounds in one month. • I will consume more health-conscious foods at least twice a week.

H2O

Even though the human body is made up of sixty percent water, the continuous consumption of water is essential to our lives. Water plays a significant role in how our vital organs function, affecting our overall health. Consuming water is also a key component of good health and fitness. Water reduces the number of calories consumed, suppresses the appetite, and is critical in removing waste. It is often stated that we should drink at least eight glasses of water per day. However, the suggested amount of water will vary depending on your gender, size, and health. It is best to consult with a professional to determine what is appropriate for you.

MOVING MATTERS

Active movement activates your metabolism and aids in burning calories. The ultimate goal is to create a balance of burning more calories than consumed. How you decide to burn the calories must work for your schedule and physical abilities. Your active movement may be as little as daily walks or as extreme as CrossFit. Decide if you will thrive better alone, in a group, or amongst others seeking to reach a goal. A little movement is better than no movement. As you make your moves understand that you are reintroducing your bodies to something that was dormant, and your goals may not be reached overnight. Be aware of potential injuries due to improper workout pace and forms. Some injuries that occur with physical exercise are due to individuals trying to overwork themselves without properly stretching or gradually working themselves up to a consistent pace. If you have delayed moving certain muscles over a period of time, you may notice soreness in those areas when you begin your fitness journey. Over time, your body will become stronger, and the soreness may subside. It is the hope that your temporary pain will yield a permanent benefit.

What is the purpose of consuming food? We have glorified food by adding flavors, textures, and other creative artistic attributes to food. Food is designed to provide our bodies with the energy and nutrients necessary to survive. Many people have programmed themselves to eat at a particular time regardless of whether they are hungry. Imagine the flow of food at its most basic level. After we take a bite, food travels through the esophagus and eventually to our stomach. The organs in our bodies work together like a wellequipped machine to break down food and turn the consumed food into nutrients and energy. Go beyond the initial taste of food. If we understand eating at its lowest level, how we consume foods and what we consume is destined to change.

POSITIVE VIBES ONLY

Fitness goals require sacrifice, dedication, and consistency. You may start over, slow down, but do not quit. Understand that “one size does not fit all.” Establishing a fitness goal is not a universal code. Take into consideration the plan you have in mind and create opportunities for big and small wins for that fitness goal. In all transparency, we all know our triggers and what halts our success. Surround yourself with positive, like-minded individuals seeking to achieve a similar purpose. Secure an accountability partner that understands your fitness journey. Every second counts. Everyone has time to create a fitness goal. It is how we prioritize our time that makes the difference. Start with small increments of time and increase that time as needed. Fitness is not only about losing weight or having muscles but it encompasses the whole concept of being healthy. At the core of fitness is a determined mindset. Begin your journey with an attitude of determination. Maintain your journey by having a foundation of how our bodies work and understanding what your body needs. Progress in your journey with transparency, positive connections, and a commitment to never quit.