WHAT GIVES YOU STRENGTH?

November 2, 2010Read: Isaiah 40

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." --Isaiah 40:29

I recently received some incredible shirts from my friend Alex who owns FUERZA, a San Diego-based clothing company. I think I've worn something with FUERZA on it every day this week. But to me, even better than the logo and the quality of clothing is their motto: "What gives you strength?" I've thought of that question for days.

Years ago, a younger and much stronger version of this balding writer would lay down on the bench or step into the squat rack like a warrior looking for a fight. With chalk flying, the belt so tight I couldn't breath, and spotters yelling all sorts of "encouragement", I'd whisper to myself these very words: "I'm saved. I'm loved. I can conquer this weight. Up and down, let's go. Let it build."

Some guys got mad when they trained, others tried to remember bad times to get motivated. But I just seemed strongest whenever I was able to blend faith with fear. That combination lit a fire inside my heart so hot that no amount of weight was too heavy for me (at least not too heavy to try).

Years later, I might not see the chalk fly anymore, but I do feel the weight of the world at times. The only thing missing is a warrior's attitude. So if I'm not whispering, "I'm saved. I'm loved, I can conquer this day", what am I thinking? When was the last time you asked yourself the same?

--J.P.

PRAYFIT RECIPE OF THE WEEK: Cheesy rice In need of some healthy fat and carbs? This week's recipe is just for you

Cheesy Rice Serves 6

Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice, dry 2 cups water 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 packets Latin spice mix seasoning (Goya Sazon recommended) 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 teaspoon red chili sauce (such as Sriracha Chili Sauce) ¼ teaspoon kosher salt 1 ½ cups frozen green peas ½ cup low fat shredded cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons chopped green onion 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Directions: In a 3-quart saucepan or dutch oven, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat and simmer until rice is tender (about 30-35 minutes). In a small bowl combine canola oil, spice mix, lemon juice, chili sauce and salt; stir to combine and set aside. When the rice is cooked, add peas, canola oil mixture and cheese. Stir well to combine. Add green onion and cilantro, toss gently and serve.

Nutrition Info (per 2/3 cup serving): Calories: 189 Fat: 6 grams Saturated Fat: 1 gram Protein: 6 grams Carbohydrate: 27 grams Sodium: 95 milligrams Cholesterol: 2 milligrams Fiber: 2 grams

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer, and nutrition and fitness consultant for international food companies, restaurants and marketing firm. Dana is also the nutrition advisor to The Food Network.