@@b.kogotmay ✝️🩸 2 Peter 2 KJV 1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. Acts 20 KJV 28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 1 Peter 1 KJV 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 1 John 5 KJV 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
@@AZ_TONY ♥️ Jesus Christ is a perfect author. Hebrews 5 KJV 9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
A prayer I often like to use before and during training is "Heavenly father, accept this sacrifice and keep me safe from injury, that by this training I may be honed as a sharp tool for the coming of your kingdom"
1 Timothy 4:7-10 Train yourself for devotion, for, while physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future. This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. For this we toil and struggle, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the savior of all, especially of those who believe.
I love this, Father! I’m a Catholic and also a fitness instructor and this makes me so happy to see a Catholic priest give us a theological foundation for working out! It makes me very sad to see so many Catholics that place all of their effort and emphasis on the spirit; on going to Mass, reading the scriptures, serving in ministry and going on retreats, but at the same time they are overweight, unfit and unkempt because they have this deep-set belief that working out, being fit, eating healthy and dressing and presenting yourself well is just vanity! When it’s not that at all (unless taken to an extreme). Giving physical fitness and taking pride in one’s appearance it’s due attention is part of good stewardship over one of God’s greatest gifts to us which is our physical body. It’s also part of having a spirit of excellence and being a whole, well-rounded person. I can tell that you work out, Father Mike! And you look great and I’m sure you feel great too and will hopefully last us a long time! Keep up the training!!
I wonder if this is a residue of American (non-Catholic) ideas about the body vs the soul. I admit I thought the two were at odds because I had not understood the union of our body with our soul. We are complete, whole and made by the Divine Creator. There is nothing evil about taking care of our body, except maybe the music that is pumped through the speakers in some places. Blessings and have a great workout day today!
(Jan 2024) I am an ice hockey goalie, soon to be age 63. I do weight training for general fitness and goalie specific reps. I exercise for strength and mobility, and I stay within myself. I don't need to set world records! I also stretch while watching TV. I have a good diet and maintain my desired weight (5'9" 180 lbs). I have cheat days too. I don't drink or smoke. I ALWAYS thank The Good Lord for being able to exercise and play my favorite sport. I am, in a non vanity way, an inspiration for younger players who see me an say that they hope to be able to continue playing as I have. My body is a temple! And I plan to keep on going until I no longer can. Thank You Fr. Mike for this video. I am going to share this.
I'm 27 years old. I started working out, lifting weights, intermittent fasting, about a year ago; with the main goal of losing weight. I started at 208lbs, and I'm down to 150. Believe me when I say I was not close to God a year ago, nor was God even in my mind at the time. However, as I began working out every day, progressing in my weight loss, I began to stop doing the things I never intended to stop doing, such as smoking weed, tobacco, drinking, and staying up late, you name it. All those things I wanted to do suddenly became things I felt the urge to stop doing, I no longer wanted them or needed them. Instead I was feeling good by working out, eating less through the day, and getting adequate rest. It has definitely brought some clarity now, mental health wise. I've been inspiring to people close to me, and it has pushed me to keep going and be an example for everyone in my life. Only then, now, has there been a sense of, or a feeling for seeking God and Jesus. Like a gravity that I can't explain, like all of a sudden an urge to learn again about God. Although I'm baptized Catholic as a baby, it was only in name. Since high school, I've been mostly agnostic about God and always questioned the existence of God. Now, I'm a month into the B.I.Y. via Spotify, currently in the book of Exodus, thinking about buying the great adventure bible to read along instead of just listening in the car on the way to work. Who would've thought? This all started because I decided it was time to get my body in shape, at least thats what I accredit to. I've still got a long journey to getting close to God and embracing the Catholic faith. The fact though, this was the first denomination to call to me speaks volumes. My mother is a Jehovah's Witness and most of my family are Protestant Christians. My grandma is the only Catholic that remains, yet still, Catholicism seemed the most natural calling to me. Just want to say, to any one who reads this to keep pushing yourself to becoming a better person, and the rest will follow. Thank you.
This is SO healing to see a Catholic leader address the body at all. The fact that so much of my Catholic upbringing denied the body’s existence (basically) was not helpful, spiritually, ethically, and had me overcompensating in the other direction. Thank you for starting this conversation Father Mike and I truly hope it continues and deepens. 🕊🙏🏼 💛 Many blessings on your work, for the glory of God
The Catholic Church has dropped the ball in every respect when it comes to caring for the temple, and the result is people walking into yoga studios when they are searching for a mind, body and spirit relationship. Hopefully we can continue to renew these teachings ... I have done Catholic fitness programs in many Catholic parochial grade schools through the years (integrated into the PE curriculum) and it is a tough sell.
This priest got a a tattoo to be like Mark Walberg. Yes let's talk about the body then. Walking is being healthy. Stop kissing some guys a ss. Read the Bible and make your own reason w it.
@@Mia-vm6pl Not sure how to read the tone of your comment ... I'm not a big fan of Fr. Mike's tattoo either but he is a great evangelist teaching college students (and many more) about the bible every day, and certainly does not simply "make his own reason of it" as that is what we call relativism, or abiding by your own truth, versus a truth that is bigger than you and me. Father Mike loves to use metaphors and offer examples for how we are to live with a Catholic or biblical worldview which is the opposite of "making you own reason", though reason is a key component of the faith. The exercise analogy works really well, as most people are not very intentional with their health and fitness habits, nor are they when reading the bible or praying. I hope you get a great walk in today ... God bless!
that's interesting, ive always been told my body is a temple and i ought to take care of it. but judging from the traction of this comment, this may be the norm.
One important thing to add, any athlete preparing for a competition will tell you nutrition is key. You can be in the gym all day long training hard but if you’re living on junk food you’re banging your head against the wall. The same goes for training the soul. In order to properly train the soul we need to regularly take the proper nutrition, that being Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.
Fr. Mike is correct. 'Going to the gym' has become a supreme expression of the atomized neoliberal self, full of people chasing 'goals' too superficial and abstract to ever be attained.
Listening to this while working and and getting ready for a powerlifting competition....no ego for me, all glory to God for allowing me to be in good health. Definitely a good message, I need to train the spirit more!
As a Personal Trainer I have but one thing to say, PREACH!! You were dropping BARS in this video. Not all "exercise" is actually Exercise. Now, let's all TRAIN to be the best we can be. God Bless, now pick up that Iron !!
I'm so glad you filmed this video. Many clients I've worked with for 22 years abuse their bodies with unhealthy foods and unhealthy habits then they go on a "workout kick" and want to be whipped into shape with hard workouts. When I ask what their ultimate goal or purpose is they say nothing meaningful and THAT is the biggest obstacle to building strength, endurance and flexibility for physical/mental/spiritual health. You can's just show up and go through the motions. You have to train with purpose. Thank you for pointing out the similarities of my clients workout mindset to my current prayer situation. This is so transformative for me.
I see this all the time when I go by these bootcamps in my local park. People literally flogging themselves, trying to "Get in shape". It seems joyless. I saw an article once about that show, The biggest loser and how the winners, when followed up on a year later, had regained all the weight and more. There has to be a joy in what you do, otherwise it wont last and it will actually cause harm.
Wonderful Father Mike! I had the exact same thoughts earlier! I was thinking that as Catholics we should work out and dress well, without seeking vanity. We should display our love for Christ through a well trained body and modest wear.
It’s not your ignorance; But your deception, foolishness - defeat. What they said, what you learned in the world - the body (mankind - parents partnership) believes - satisfies. Nothing is true on earth... Superstition! Including this, there are 225+ religions (men made) and its 35+ Gods in different names in world. Even the funny thing, is that there are enough translation errors and people are worshiping the man made fake and idols. Elysium and the world are different. a. Inherent, unceasing abundance of life, of everything, of all living in world. Creator -=1 (1 creator = Ceaseless Creator) b. The creations of the original creator are the earth, the sky, the sea, etc. In it living beings: man, birds, fish, etc. People were - are like you from the star, dancing to the tune of Mankind’s fake idols. Its worship, faith and prayer. As a result, life went through all the ailments, trials and problems. Blind faith. Elysium = Natural, quieter, less use, etc. World = body = more Elysium (the place of the giver of life, of endless abundance, of all things, of all living on earth, sky and in water and world - both distinct (Creator and creations)1 A. The Creator of Immanent, Endless Prosperity - 1b. Creatures like earth (eg: mankind and all other living creatures). Lack of proper - good guidance is the root cause of mankind's problems. First distinguish between good and bad . Culture: Respect. Accept. Adapt. The aspects of anybody's 'ENJOFUL LIFE' Think about your life and well being first. First you Change to an ‘ENJOFUL LIFE' Your Hearty and Healthy Life on the Earth gifted by = Intrinsic and Infinite Abundance - Ceaseless Creator of Elysium = 1 . (1 life, 1 breath, 1 pain, 1 sky, 1 earth, 1 wind, 1 thunder, 1 lightning, 1 water, etc.1) Not knowing self lives worth, lack of self respect, etc. All Religions (225+) & its God (35+) on the earth are men make fakes & idols. • If your Allah, God, Jesus is real, then why the need for 35+ names in the world'? How come your god has 35+ names? All other living things have the same name everywhere. That means, it is a men made cheating method for Divide and rule: • Leaders teach that life is sad and even mankind learns that it is sad from various sources. Life is a precious gift. Don't live like dog, hen, wolf, etc. (that itself means a lot) Know good and bad and live with good Life is a cherish-able FREE Gift. No one really enjoys it, and everyone wastes their lives relying on lies, idols, and Nonsense made up by other men to fulfill their temptations Life - that is gifted by Ceaseless Creator of Elysium . Ceaseless Creator is like your life, breath, pain, etc.; only you will know the result. World - Body - by earth - with - parent’s participation In life lacks affection, feeling, care, mercy and love, then there how can One describe this mixture? Any one of these, alone, is of no use. Human life (active) = i. Life ii. Body iii. Skin (3 inseparable ingredients) like soil, water and sunrays = 1 unique creation (epitome). Life is the amalgamation of 2 aspects in a life. i. the power of body to inhale and relive the breathing sensation. ii. The power of body to carry the breathing sensation. A utmost beautiful creation ’Humankind’ Civilization describes a complex way of life that came about as people began to develop networks of urban settlements like this one. Cheating operandi started silently in centuries (from olden days) back and still continues the fake and idol worship instead of true. They said and you have learned about satisfying body/lust of world. 1 represents the Arabs (autocracy) and the second (democracy) Europe. Study things (history) well about the caste, religion, politics etc. you are aspiring to. He destroyed his own prosperity by bearing the lies of others. Atleast know the Reality of your so called religion. Actually, real life is fun, but they distributed it as sad, mankind believes it, and mankind does not really try; Feeling that sadness is a part of life. It also supports mankind to fulfill their selfishness and greed. Life itself is positive; no need of people's positiveness gimmick. Aww..
@@jamesj9744 Not at all. Pentecostalism emphasises the gifts of the Holy Spirit for all Christians (e.g. prophecy, healing, tongues), and the direct work the Holy Spirit plays in our day-to-day lives. We will often debate and use interpretations of Scripture to both defend what we believe to other Christians, as well as in discussing disagreements within the Pentecostal tradition (and there are many). Many of us will study theology, and there are also many Pentecostal theologians such as Amos Yong and Roger Stronstad.
I realized I had made fitness such an idol in my life when I was doing that first thing in the morning instead of praying and diving into scripture. Now that I have my quiet time with God before I workout and take my rest days, I feel and look better than I ever have. Praise God for convicting me and helping me put Him first in all I do❤️🙏🏼
"It doesn't necessarily have to be any more difficult... it's simply more intentional." This hits home for me. I always feel like I have to increase in my strength, in my wisdom, & in my knowledge, and that better means more difficult. But no... training doesn't have to be more difficult than working out, but it does have to be guided towards a higher goal. Thank you Fr. Mike!
As a Portuguese Catholic Athlete and personal trainer, it was wonderful to hear you father, thank you, our bodies are indeed temples of the Holy Ghost, and preserve them through exercise is a prayer for health itself, thank you so much I will hear you more times
@@sergiowinter5383 in portuguese we say espírito santo Literally it translates to Holy Spirit But sometimes ive heard english speakers say Holy ghost hence my doubt
@@sergiowinter5383 saying "Holy Ghost" just makes it a little more clear that you are referring to a real person not just like a "vibe" or something. but they are the same thing. God bless :)
Thank you, Father. I listen to you everyday, Bible In A Year/Perpetuity, because I love God and His Word. It's a workout for my spirit and heart and mind. God Bless You, Father and everyone here.
It’s not your ignorance; But your deception, foolishness - defeat. What they said, what you learned in the world - the body (mankind - parents partnership) believes - satisfies. Nothing is true on earth... Superstition! Including this, there are 225+ religions (men made) and its 35+ Gods in different names in world. Even the funny thing, is that there are enough translation errors and people are worshiping the man made fake and idols. Elysium and the world are different. a. Inherent, unceasing abundance of life, of everything, of all living in world. Creator -=1 (1 creator = Ceaseless Creator) b. The creations of the original creator are the earth, the sky, the sea, etc. In it living beings: man, birds, fish, etc. People were - are like you from the star, dancing to the tune of Mankind’s fake idols. Its worship, faith and prayer. As a result, life went through all the ailments, trials and problems. Blind faith. Elysium = Natural, quieter, less use, etc. World = body = more Elysium (the place of the giver of life, of endless abundance, of all things, of all living on earth, sky and in water and world - both distinct (Creator and creations)1 A. The Creator of Immanent, Endless Prosperity - 1b. Creatures like earth (eg: mankind and all other living creatures). Lack of proper - good guidance is the root cause of mankind's problems. First distinguish between good and bad . Culture: Respect. Accept. Adapt. The aspects of anybody's 'ENJOFUL LIFE' Think about your life and well being first. First you Change to an ‘ENJOFUL LIFE' Your Hearty and Healthy Life on the Earth gifted by = Intrinsic and Infinite Abundance - Ceaseless Creator of Elysium = 1 . (1 life, 1 breath, 1 pain, 1 sky, 1 earth, 1 wind, 1 thunder, 1 lightning, 1 water, etc.1) Not knowing self lives worth, lack of self respect, etc. All Religions (225+) & its God (35+) on the earth are men make fakes & idols. • If your Allah, God, Jesus is real, then why the need for 35+ names in the world'? How come your god has 35+ names? All other living things have the same name everywhere. That means, it is a men made cheating method for Divide and rule: • Leaders teach that life is sad and even mankind learns that it is sad from various sources. Life is a precious gift. Don't live like dog, hen, wolf, etc. (that itself means a lot) Know good and bad and live with good Life is a cherish-able FREE Gift. No one really enjoys it, and everyone wastes their lives relying on lies, idols, and Nonsense made up by other men to fulfill their temptations Life - that is gifted by Ceaseless Creator of Elysium . Ceaseless Creator is like your life, breath, pain, etc.; only you will know the result. World - Body - by earth - with - parent’s participation In life lacks affection, feeling, care, mercy and love, then there how can One describe this mixture? Any one of these, alone, is of no use. Human life (active) = i. Life ii. Body iii. Skin (3 inseparable ingredients) like soil, water and sunrays = 1 unique creation (epitome). Life is the amalgamation of 2 aspects in a life. i. the power of body to inhale and relive the breathing sensation. ii. The power of body to carry the breathing sensation. A utmost beautiful creation ’Humankind’ Civilization describes a complex way of life that came about as people began to develop networks of urban settlements like this one. Cheating operandi started silently in centuries (from olden days) back and still continues the fake and idol worship instead of true. They said and you have learned about satisfying body/lust of world. 1 represents the Arabs (autocracy) and the second (democracy) Europe. Study things (history) well about the caste, religion, politics etc. you are aspiring to. He destroyed his own prosperity by bearing the lies of others. Atleast know the Reality of your so called religion. Actually, real life is fun, but they distributed it as sad, mankind believes it, and mankind does not really try; Feeling that sadness is a part of life. It also supports mankind to fulfill their selfishness and greed. Life itself is positive; no need of people's positiveness gimmick. Aww..
@@VipMike The REAL TRUTH is: Elysium (the place of the owner of life, abundance, everything, all living) and the world (part of the human body) = both are different. a. Providing inherent, infinite abundance- Creator b. Creation (mankind and all creatures). Elysium (life) = natural, quieter, less use, etc. World (body) = more, more powerful, louder, money, assets, facilities, higher education, jobs, etc. Humankind’s life (breath) itself the free gift of real creator then how one can lives the way they want? Say and do only good, for that is your life. • Humankind is focusing a deteriorated body, which will be destroyed. • God, lord, Allahu Akbar etc. are men made and given names for the fake Religion and its respefctive idol God made by men.
In 1 Timothy it says "Train yourself in godliness, for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come." (4:7-8). I find this passage helpful to reflect on because while I find great enjoyment in physical exercise, I need to make sure I am not making an idol out of it. Good physical health is great, but good spiritual health is essential.
Indeed and the two are not mutually exclusive. Far too many people think that you can only do one of them. Spiritual health is more important than physical health, but that doesn't mean that one can neglect the physical health of the body!
@@csongorarpad4670 This is so true. I will even go little further, in my opinion those two are connected. It is tough to be in a good spiritual health with a dysfunctional body (like a serious illness). Indeed, to be concentrated on the spiritual side with a body that is constantly in pain, it is harder. Not impossible, but harder.
Thank you Fr Mike 🌟 Training is the essence of transformation. The wilderness is God's training ground for our spiritual growth. Learn from our training of Communion and Confirmation Honor the commitment to Jesus Christ Cherish the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ🌻
Thank you Fr. Mike! I used to work out physically, and Pray regularly, but I lapsed with both of them. You've inspired me through bible in a year. When I felt like giving up, you encouraged me months ago to keep going with the BIAY, and I'm still with it, and I am going back to physical exercise. I pray for you. Gosh! I can become a saint? I never thought I could. I need as much help as possible. God bless!!
I work out as much as I can every morning - I'm disabled and working at getting my legs strong enough so I can walk. It's a challenge, but eventually I'll get there. I really love praying the rosary most of the time - I am able to go deeply into meditation and the world disappears and I'm just sitting there with God. Sometimes I just sit there. Sometimes he shows me what he wants of me. And other times he shows me how my prayers are being answered for someone else to be protected. It's all good.
Thank you, Father. I can relate so much to this message. Sometimes I feel exhausted trying to be better in my spiritual life. I realized that I should let God do what He wants in me rather than doing what I want to. God bless!
For many years I worked out for vanity...but when my special needs son was born I started to looking for a deeper meaning of my workout...after a few years of reflecting on this I have changed my mindset from vanity to longevity. Now I workout to be as healthy and strong as posible to take care of this special boy that God gave me and support my Wife. Squating on my cold winter garage at 5:00am is not as hard as it sounds any more.
As a professional athlete, one of my goals for my days off this week was to plan a more intentional at-home training routine. This video was exactly what I needed to help me understand how I can take the same concepts I use in my everyday life/career and apply it to my prayer & spiritual life. Thank you Fr. Mike for saying yes to God so that so many of us can find ways to grow closer to our Lord. Praying for you and everyone at Ascension press! God bless!
I spent my entire career in teaching and coaching football. Never once did I make this connection. Outstanding job Padre. You can bet I will steal this and use it with our youth. I will,of course, say where I got it....wink and nod
Wow this is an awesome answer for a 6 months' asking in prayer. AWESOME 🤩 I also loved doing workout, but then had am accident... Looking back, it really seems I didn't have any concrete aim other than enjoying being strong in others' admiring eyes. My aim is to be God's great saint, I'll train to allow God to form me according to His timing and method. And I am determined to have proper ammount of rest (in HIS PRESENCE)! 😻🤩
Even aimlessly working out to improve general well-being can in itself be purposeful. If you are alive longer, you have more chances to preach the faith to others. More human interactions, more time to do good on the planet, etc..
stumbled on this while 36wks pregnant and this all speaks to me! the concept of "stewards of our bodies" never feels more real than when I carry one of God's creation. Also, my training is so that i can go up and down stairs without getting winded. In my position/vocation, its kind of a goal post. 😆
Your blessing, Father. As a Catholic and a runner, I had the feeling that the video was made specifically for me. I will remember your apostolate in my prayers. A hug from Brazil.
I'm very grateful for discovering your channel here Father, thank you for serving your flock with such enthusiasm and devotion. You're deeply appreciated!
I’m really thankful for this video. I’ve been getting into bodybuilding for a lot of reasons, but a few are that I struggled fighting the sins of gluttony and sloth. I hope that training hard and eating what is temperate will help me to overcome the sins. I was worried this would condemn the actions I’ve been taking, but instead it helped illuminate the darkness I’ve been blind to. I’ve been running aimlessly in my spiritual life, and I’ve been wondering where to go for my life. Thank you for helping me see this.
I was just talking about this the other day! I started strength training at the recommendation of my chiropractor for joint health and stability, but I just retired from professional bellydancing so I'm not worshipping and focusing on the body. So instead of doing it for physical benefit, I recite Psalm 18:32-26 and 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 while I do each set because it's His strength, not mine, that I'm focusing on and He gave me and built up my body to do His work. (It's my Matrix spoon moment each time, lol!)
As a cradle Catholic, it is so easy to forget how integral the Incarnation is to EVERY part of the Christian life. It is certainly pertinent to the verse, "pray without ceasing." Having the Incarnation as the basis of everyday life makes working out, going to work, drinking coffee, whatever all part of the unceasing prayer and praise to God for creating us Human beings as body, mind and spirit. Ut in omnia Deus glorificetur! Life is beautiful!
Thank you Fr Mike. I love this very much being a reverted Catholic that is a personal trainer. I can understand the analogy between the physical training and spiritual training immensely ❤️
Thank you brother. I click on the video because I thought it was about working out. God is so good that he has given me what I needed to pursue excellence in my pursuit for Jesus.
Yes, lets be Saints! Our gyms are too full, and our Churches are too empty. "Train yourself for devotion, for, while physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future." 1 Tim 4:8
As a longtime runner and fitness fanatic, I'm currently training for the Chicago Marathon in Oct, and I'm so happy to watch this video! Also started the road to become Catholic, going to mass for 3 months now!
My body was a gift to me from the Lord to care for while I am here on earth, as it is my duty to care for His creation. It is a shame for a man to grow old without seeing the beauty and strength of which his body is capable. Glory to God in the highest
I am certainly still in the early stages of training. Started listening to your Bible In A Year podcast which has been instrumental in my growth as a Saint and proper worshipper of our Lord. Thank you for aiding me in my journey to rediscovering my faith and belief in Him!
I really enjoyed this video. I feel like what you are saying is finding a mission. Thinking about that mission and measuring how far you are on a day to day. 90 I pray because it’s good to pray. 10 percent I pray because I want something from God. Comfort and guidance. So now when I pray I’ll think of training!
Great analogy. When I was training for my first marathon, all of my runs were laid out for me each day to get to my time goal, and it was *mentally* easy to run 50 miles a week. I am no longer training for something, and now it's hard for me to go for a 20 minute jog! The same goes for my spiritual life. I have no goal or purpose when praying (e.i., to make me a better Christian, to be more like Jesus), I just pray because I know it's good for me. Thank you for sharing this wisdom Father. I will be changing up my prayer life now.
Grateful, for this episode. I'm grateful for Endurance Sports. It gives me a sense of penance while in that long run throughout the night till my goal is reached and all is purged.
Thank you for this video Father Mike, like always, quality content. I can't tell you how much you've helped me not only better understand my Faith, but to aspire to live my Faith with as much joy as you do yours. You can tell by your videos there's nothing you love more than the Lord, and talking about Him makes you intensely happy. Thank God you chose to be a priest. I'm so thankful I'm not even gonna nitpick and mention the fact that shadow boxing is a fundamental part of fight training, where you don't throw senseless punches into the air just to warm up like it was some 8:30 am fitness boxing class for mothers, but a scenario-based, goal oriented conning of your fighting abilities, be that combination punching, footwork, defense, or violent creativity. Nah, I'm not gonna say any of that because the video was great and it's just a detail and no one besides a washed-up boxer would care. Anyway, God bless you Father Mike!
I so enjoy your message and your teaching. As an older person though I find the speed with which you speak making listening really a challenge. I wonder if you imagined that someone is sitting across from you you’d pace you thoughts! Thank you
Hello Father Whilst many people can become obsessed with the body, and exercise it in the hopes of achieving a vain or prideful goal such as an attractive appearance or the ability to over come others (whether in sports or in combat etc). There is also within exercise, to be found a spiritual essence and that is, Exercise can be used as a way to conquer our own weakness and break free from the demonic grasp. Many young men are now suffering mentally and spiritually due to the Demons of Depression, Lust, Sloth, Greed, Envy etc. Exercise can be used as a way to fight for Salvation and God as we can break free from many of them with the tool of exercise. When we hear the call of Sloth we can use our body in a way that we quiet the voice. When we hear the call of Greed and Gluttony we can Give up rich foods and put ourselves into Painful situations. When we hear envy we can give up all we have once more and run in the cold rain. When we lust after others we can remind ourselves through the suffering that is to be found in hard exercise that Jesus suffered for our sins. It is important however that when we do we do not step into the traps of Pride and being Boastful about what we do however and it should not be seen as vain, It is in my opinion a form of prayer and just as was taught we should keep Prayer private. We can Pray in public and put on a show but we are taught to pray in private Just as Exercise can be Prideful but it should be done in private and peace. I think the Distinction between the two is important and i personally use exercise as a way to become a better man and servant of god. Anyway that's how I see it. hope your well and God bless Father
I feel like the Lord was talking to me through this video. I am often just showing up for the bare minimum. It’s time to both train physically and spiritually.
I constantly remind others to, “Always stay strong, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally and more important spiritually!” All mighty men of God should all strive to stay strong no matter what. Healthy and strong Christian Patriots will be needed to fight not only for our lives but our souls as well. Proverbs 4;23-24 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house , his possessions are safe.” Song of Solomon 3:8 “All of them are wielders of the sword, expert in war, each man has a sword at his side, guarding against the terror of the night.” Joshua 1: 7-9 “ Be strong and very courageous.” Zechariah 8:9 This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says, “ Let your hands be strong...” Psalms 144:1 Praise the Lord, who is my rock. He trains my hands for battle and gives my fingers skill for battle...” Ephesians 6:11/13 “Put on your full amor of God...so when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.” We are Warriors of Christ and as men of Faith we are to Love God with our heart, soul, mind and strength.
Great video! A lot of people have sold their bodies away with yoga. Also yes in just normal exercising many just go through the motions w/ no purpose in mind (which is important)
This really brings out my weakness head on. I pray , ut is it enough. Do I take care of my body that God has given me, definately not as I should. I pray that I would love myself as He loves me. Thank you Father Mike . Hopefully hearing this will help me to do better in my prayer life and taking care of my body, which is a gift from God. Maybe I am heading God through you.
I have also fallen victim to aimless physical excercise but I see now it was God laying a simple foundation I was ready for towards something much greater. Similary I was a raised catholic in a system designed to repeat purposeless ritual workouts yet it allowed me to believe in something so I could break free from and build a greater understanding of the bibles plan for me.
"Father, bless me for these gainz I am about to receive."
That needs to be on a tshirt
@@b.kogotmay ✝️🩸
2 Peter 2 KJV
1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.
Acts 20 KJV
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
1 Peter 1 KJV
19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
1 John 5 KJV
13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
I've never understood why the saying isn't father bless these gains im about to receive, it just flows better
@@AZ_TONY ♥️ Jesus Christ is a perfect author.
Hebrews 5 KJV
9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;
From thy bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen.
A prayer I often like to use before and during training is "Heavenly father, accept this sacrifice and keep me safe from injury, that by this training I may be honed as a sharp tool for the coming of your kingdom"
Deus VOLT
Amazing ima start saying this 🙏
Whoa ! This prayer is FIRE! May I use it, brother?
Honed.
1 Timothy 4:7-10 Train yourself for devotion, for, while physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future. This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. For this we toil and struggle, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the savior of all, especially of those who believe.
Please pray for my family and I. We’re struggling financially and in the midst of some tough trials! Thank you!
I’ll be keeping all of you in my prayers 🙏
@@clairstrange4362 thank you so much
I just prayed for you.
Ave Maria!
Praying for you!
Read Matthew 7 and 2 Corinthians 9:8 ❤
You have changed my life for the better father Mike. I’m stage 4 terminal cancer and you get me out of some dark moments. God bless you. 🙏🏽💓
Look up "Chris beat cancer" on how to cure cancer.
please search 'nsppd' here on yt and listen to them daily
May God bless you Ann. May God fill your heart with peace.
Oh Ann… Mary loves you so 😊☺️
God bless you, keep fighting the good fight
I love this, Father! I’m a Catholic and also a fitness instructor and this makes me so happy to see a Catholic priest give us a theological foundation for working out! It makes me very sad to see so many Catholics that place all of their effort and emphasis on the spirit; on going to Mass, reading the scriptures, serving in ministry and going on retreats, but at the same time they are overweight, unfit and unkempt because they have this deep-set belief that working out, being fit, eating healthy and dressing and presenting yourself well is just vanity! When it’s not that at all (unless taken to an extreme). Giving physical fitness and taking pride in one’s appearance it’s due attention is part of good stewardship over one of God’s greatest gifts to us which is our physical body. It’s also part of having a spirit of excellence and being a whole, well-rounded person. I can tell that you work out, Father Mike! And you look great and I’m sure you feel great too and will hopefully last us a long time! Keep up the training!!
A priest decades (1970 about) ago told me basically the same thing that you and Fr. Mike are saying, never forgot that. Keep up the good work.
Weird. FASTING is a penitential act and temperance when it comes to the appetites should be practiced by all catholics.
I wonder if this is a residue of American (non-Catholic) ideas about the body vs the soul. I admit I thought the two were at odds because I had not understood the union of our body with our soul. We are complete, whole and made by the Divine Creator. There is nothing evil about taking care of our body, except maybe the music that is pumped through the speakers in some places. Blessings and have a great workout day today!
@@gogogolyra1340 yes, and Catholics fast all the time . Remember we are the OG Christians 😎
(Jan 2024) I am an ice hockey goalie, soon to be age 63. I do weight training for general fitness and goalie specific reps. I exercise for strength and mobility, and I stay within myself. I don't need to set world records! I also stretch while watching TV. I have a good diet and maintain my desired weight (5'9" 180 lbs). I have cheat days too. I don't drink or smoke.
I ALWAYS thank The Good Lord for being able to exercise and play my favorite sport. I am, in a non vanity way, an inspiration for younger players who see me an say that they hope to be able to continue playing as I have.
My body is a temple! And I plan to keep on going until I no longer can.
Thank You Fr. Mike for this video. I am going to share this.
I'm 27 years old. I started working out, lifting weights, intermittent fasting, about a year ago; with the main goal of losing weight. I started at 208lbs, and I'm down to 150.
Believe me when I say I was not close to God a year ago, nor was God even in my mind at the time. However, as I began working out every day, progressing in my weight loss, I began to stop doing the things I never intended to stop doing, such as smoking weed, tobacco, drinking, and staying up late, you name it. All those things I wanted to do suddenly became things I felt the urge to stop doing, I no longer wanted them or needed them. Instead I was feeling good by working out, eating less through the day, and getting adequate rest. It has definitely brought some clarity now, mental health wise. I've been inspiring to people close to me, and it has pushed me to keep going and be an example for everyone in my life.
Only then, now, has there been a sense of, or a feeling for seeking God and Jesus. Like a gravity that I can't explain, like all of a sudden an urge to learn again about God.
Although I'm baptized Catholic as a baby, it was only in name. Since high school, I've been mostly agnostic about God and always questioned the existence of God.
Now, I'm a month into the B.I.Y. via Spotify, currently in the book of Exodus, thinking about buying the great adventure bible to read along instead of just listening in the car on the way to work. Who would've thought? This all started because I decided it was time to get my body in shape, at least thats what I accredit to.
I've still got a long journey to getting close to God and embracing the Catholic faith. The fact though, this was the first denomination to call to me speaks volumes. My mother is a Jehovah's Witness and most of my family are Protestant Christians. My grandma is the only Catholic that remains, yet still, Catholicism seemed the most natural calling to me.
Just want to say, to any one who reads this to keep pushing yourself to becoming a better person, and the rest will follow. Thank you.
This is SO healing to see a Catholic leader address the body at all. The fact that so much of my Catholic upbringing denied the body’s existence (basically) was not helpful, spiritually, ethically, and had me overcompensating in the other direction. Thank you for starting this conversation Father Mike and I truly hope it continues and deepens. 🕊🙏🏼 💛 Many blessings on your work, for the glory of God
The Catholic Church has dropped the ball in every respect when it comes to caring for the temple, and the result is people walking into yoga studios when they are searching for a mind, body and spirit relationship. Hopefully we can continue to renew these teachings ... I have done Catholic fitness programs in many Catholic parochial grade schools through the years (integrated into the PE curriculum) and it is a tough sell.
This priest got a a tattoo to be like Mark Walberg. Yes let's talk about the body then. Walking is being healthy. Stop kissing some guys a ss. Read the Bible and make your own reason w it.
@@Mia-vm6pl Not sure how to read the tone of your comment ... I'm not a big fan of Fr. Mike's tattoo either but he is a great evangelist teaching college students (and many more) about the bible every day, and certainly does not simply "make his own reason of it" as that is what we call relativism, or abiding by your own truth, versus a truth that is bigger than you and me. Father Mike loves to use metaphors and offer examples for how we are to live with a Catholic or biblical worldview which is the opposite of "making you own reason", though reason is a key component of the faith. The exercise analogy works really well, as most people are not very intentional with their health and fitness habits, nor are they when reading the bible or praying. I hope you get a great walk in today ... God bless!
that's interesting, ive always been told my body is a temple and i ought to take care of it. but judging from the traction of this comment, this may be the norm.
There's literally a branch of theology called "theology of the body". st jp2 gave 129 (!!!) audiences over the course of 5 years of the same name.
One important thing to add, any athlete preparing for a competition will tell you nutrition is key. You can be in the gym all day long training hard but if you’re living on junk food you’re banging your head against the wall. The same goes for training the soul. In order to properly train the soul we need to regularly take the proper nutrition, that being Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.
Amen, and also prayer, prayer is food for the soul.
Fr. Mike is correct. 'Going to the gym' has become a supreme expression of the atomized neoliberal self, full of people chasing 'goals' too superficial and abstract to ever be attained.
Listening to this while working and and getting ready for a powerlifting competition....no ego for me, all glory to God for allowing me to be in good health. Definitely a good message, I need to train the spirit more!
Hay brother God bless you if God doesn't let us do it it won't happen I am the same way 🙏✝️
As a Born Again Christian and Personal Trainer I greatly appreciate this message. God Bless
As a Personal Trainer I have but one thing to say, PREACH!! You were dropping BARS in this video. Not all "exercise" is actually Exercise. Now, let's all TRAIN to be the best we can be. God Bless, now pick up that Iron !!
PREACH!!!! Lift the steeeeellll...!!! 👌💯🤘😭🙌☝️😄🙂👌
I'm so glad you filmed this video. Many clients I've worked with for 22 years abuse their bodies with unhealthy foods and unhealthy habits then they go on a "workout kick" and want to be whipped into shape with hard workouts. When I ask what their ultimate goal or purpose is they say nothing meaningful and THAT is the biggest obstacle to building strength, endurance and flexibility for physical/mental/spiritual health. You can's just show up and go through the motions. You have to train with purpose. Thank you for pointing out the similarities of my clients workout mindset to my current prayer situation. This is so transformative for me.
I see this all the time when I go by these bootcamps in my local park. People literally flogging themselves, trying to "Get in shape". It seems joyless. I saw an article once about that show, The biggest loser and how the winners, when followed up on a year later, had regained all the weight and more. There has to be a joy in what you do, otherwise it wont last and it will actually cause harm.
I train hard physically, but sometimes my spiritual training is lacking. A good reminder to treat both body and soul as equals
I pray and listen to the Bible while working out. I dedicate my bodybuilding and my workouts to our Heavely Father.
Wonderful Father Mike! I had the exact same thoughts earlier! I was thinking that as Catholics we should work out and dress well, without seeking vanity. We should display our love for Christ through a well trained body and modest wear.
It’s not your ignorance; But your deception, foolishness - defeat. What they said, what you learned in the world - the body (mankind - parents partnership) believes - satisfies. Nothing is true on earth... Superstition! Including this, there are 225+ religions (men made) and its 35+ Gods in different names in world. Even the funny thing, is that there are enough translation errors and people are worshiping the man made fake and idols.
Elysium and the world are different.
a. Inherent, unceasing abundance of life, of everything, of all living in world.
Creator -=1 (1 creator = Ceaseless Creator)
b. The creations of the original creator are the earth, the sky, the sea, etc. In it living beings: man, birds, fish, etc.
People were - are like you from the star, dancing to the tune of Mankind’s fake idols. Its worship, faith and prayer. As a result, life went through all the ailments, trials and problems. Blind faith.
Elysium = Natural, quieter, less use, etc.
World = body = more
Elysium (the place of the giver of life, of endless abundance, of all things, of all living on earth, sky and in water and world - both distinct (Creator and creations)1 A. The Creator of Immanent, Endless Prosperity - 1b. Creatures like earth (eg: mankind and all other living creatures).
Lack of proper - good guidance is the root cause of mankind's problems. First distinguish between good and bad .
Culture: Respect. Accept. Adapt. The aspects of anybody's 'ENJOFUL LIFE'
Think about your life and well being first. First you Change to an ‘ENJOFUL LIFE'
Your Hearty and Healthy Life on the Earth gifted by = Intrinsic and Infinite Abundance - Ceaseless Creator of Elysium = 1 . (1 life, 1 breath, 1 pain, 1 sky, 1 earth, 1 wind, 1 thunder, 1 lightning, 1 water, etc.1)
Not knowing self lives worth, lack of self respect, etc.
All Religions (225+) & its God (35+) on the earth are men make fakes & idols.
• If your Allah, God, Jesus is real, then why the need for 35+ names in the world'? How come your god has 35+ names? All other living things have the same name everywhere. That means, it is a men made cheating method for Divide and rule:
• Leaders teach that life is sad and even mankind learns that it is sad from various sources.
Life is a precious gift. Don't live like dog, hen, wolf, etc. (that itself means a lot) Know good and bad and live with good
Life is a cherish-able FREE Gift. No one really enjoys it, and everyone wastes their lives relying on lies, idols, and
Nonsense made up by other men to fulfill their temptations
Life - that is gifted by Ceaseless Creator of Elysium . Ceaseless Creator is like your life, breath, pain, etc.; only you will know the result.
World - Body - by earth - with - parent’s participation
In life lacks affection, feeling, care, mercy and love, then there how can One describe this mixture? Any one of these, alone, is of no use.
Human life (active) = i. Life ii. Body iii. Skin (3 inseparable ingredients) like soil, water and sunrays = 1 unique creation (epitome).
Life is the amalgamation of 2 aspects in a life. i. the power of body to inhale and relive the breathing sensation. ii. The power of body to carry the breathing sensation. A utmost beautiful creation ’Humankind’
Civilization describes a complex way of life that came about as people began to develop networks of urban settlements like this one.
Cheating operandi started silently in centuries (from olden days) back and still continues the fake and idol worship instead of true. They said and you have learned about satisfying body/lust of world.
1 represents the Arabs (autocracy) and the second (democracy) Europe. Study things (history) well about the caste, religion, politics etc. you are aspiring to. He destroyed his own prosperity by bearing the lies of others. Atleast know the Reality of your so called religion.
Actually, real life is fun, but they distributed it as sad, mankind believes it, and mankind does not really try; Feeling that sadness is a part of life. It also supports mankind to fulfill their selfishness and greed. Life itself is positive; no need of people's positiveness gimmick. Aww..
I am a pentecostal theology student, and I love to listen to you, Father Mike! This is really good 🔥
Interesting that Pentecostals study theology. I understood they believe the Bible is not open to interpretation.
@@jamesj9744 Not at all. Pentecostalism emphasises the gifts of the Holy Spirit for all Christians (e.g. prophecy, healing, tongues), and the direct work the Holy Spirit plays in our day-to-day lives. We will often debate and use interpretations of Scripture to both defend what we believe to other Christians, as well as in discussing disagreements within the Pentecostal tradition (and there are many). Many of us will study theology, and there are also many Pentecostal theologians such as Amos Yong and Roger Stronstad.
I realized I had made fitness such an idol in my life when I was doing that first thing in the morning instead of praying and diving into scripture. Now that I have my quiet time with God before I workout and take my rest days, I feel and look better than I ever have. Praise God for convicting me and helping me put Him first in all I do❤️🙏🏼
"It doesn't necessarily have to be any more difficult... it's simply more intentional." This hits home for me. I always feel like I have to increase in my strength, in my wisdom, & in my knowledge, and that better means more difficult. But no... training doesn't have to be more difficult than working out, but it does have to be guided towards a higher goal. Thank you Fr. Mike!
As a Portuguese Catholic Athlete and personal trainer, it was wonderful to hear you father, thank you, our bodies are indeed temples of the Holy Ghost, and preserve them through exercise is a prayer for health itself, thank you so much I will hear you more times
Holy Spirit*
@@sergiowinter5383 in portuguese we say espírito santo
Literally it translates to Holy Spirit
But sometimes ive heard english speakers say Holy ghost hence my doubt
@@sergiowinter5383 saying "Holy Ghost" just makes it a little more clear that you are referring to a real person not just like a "vibe" or something. but they are the same thing. God bless :)
Thank you, Father. I listen to you everyday, Bible In A Year/Perpetuity, because I love God and His Word. It's a workout for my spirit and heart and mind. God Bless You, Father and everyone here.
It’s not your ignorance; But your deception, foolishness - defeat. What they said, what you learned in the world - the body (mankind - parents partnership) believes - satisfies. Nothing is true on earth... Superstition! Including this, there are 225+ religions (men made) and its 35+ Gods in different names in world. Even the funny thing, is that there are enough translation errors and people are worshiping the man made fake and idols.
Elysium and the world are different.
a. Inherent, unceasing abundance of life, of everything, of all living in world.
Creator -=1 (1 creator = Ceaseless Creator)
b. The creations of the original creator are the earth, the sky, the sea, etc. In it living beings: man, birds, fish, etc.
People were - are like you from the star, dancing to the tune of Mankind’s fake idols. Its worship, faith and prayer. As a result, life went through all the ailments, trials and problems. Blind faith.
Elysium = Natural, quieter, less use, etc.
World = body = more
Elysium (the place of the giver of life, of endless abundance, of all things, of all living on earth, sky and in water and world - both distinct (Creator and creations)1 A. The Creator of Immanent, Endless Prosperity - 1b. Creatures like earth (eg: mankind and all other living creatures).
Lack of proper - good guidance is the root cause of mankind's problems. First distinguish between good and bad .
Culture: Respect. Accept. Adapt. The aspects of anybody's 'ENJOFUL LIFE'
Think about your life and well being first. First you Change to an ‘ENJOFUL LIFE'
Your Hearty and Healthy Life on the Earth gifted by = Intrinsic and Infinite Abundance - Ceaseless Creator of Elysium = 1 . (1 life, 1 breath, 1 pain, 1 sky, 1 earth, 1 wind, 1 thunder, 1 lightning, 1 water, etc.1)
Not knowing self lives worth, lack of self respect, etc.
All Religions (225+) & its God (35+) on the earth are men make fakes & idols.
• If your Allah, God, Jesus is real, then why the need for 35+ names in the world'? How come your god has 35+ names? All other living things have the same name everywhere. That means, it is a men made cheating method for Divide and rule:
• Leaders teach that life is sad and even mankind learns that it is sad from various sources.
Life is a precious gift. Don't live like dog, hen, wolf, etc. (that itself means a lot) Know good and bad and live with good
Life is a cherish-able FREE Gift. No one really enjoys it, and everyone wastes their lives relying on lies, idols, and
Nonsense made up by other men to fulfill their temptations
Life - that is gifted by Ceaseless Creator of Elysium . Ceaseless Creator is like your life, breath, pain, etc.; only you will know the result.
World - Body - by earth - with - parent’s participation
In life lacks affection, feeling, care, mercy and love, then there how can One describe this mixture? Any one of these, alone, is of no use.
Human life (active) = i. Life ii. Body iii. Skin (3 inseparable ingredients) like soil, water and sunrays = 1 unique creation (epitome).
Life is the amalgamation of 2 aspects in a life. i. the power of body to inhale and relive the breathing sensation. ii. The power of body to carry the breathing sensation. A utmost beautiful creation ’Humankind’
Civilization describes a complex way of life that came about as people began to develop networks of urban settlements like this one.
Cheating operandi started silently in centuries (from olden days) back and still continues the fake and idol worship instead of true. They said and you have learned about satisfying body/lust of world.
1 represents the Arabs (autocracy) and the second (democracy) Europe. Study things (history) well about the caste, religion, politics etc. you are aspiring to. He destroyed his own prosperity by bearing the lies of others. Atleast know the Reality of your so called religion.
Actually, real life is fun, but they distributed it as sad, mankind believes it, and mankind does not really try; Feeling that sadness is a part of life. It also supports mankind to fulfill their selfishness and greed. Life itself is positive; no need of people's positiveness gimmick. Aww..
Thank you God Bless 🙏💞🕊 Amen.
@@VipMike The REAL TRUTH is:
Elysium (the place of the owner of life, abundance, everything, all living) and the world (part of the human body) = both are different. a. Providing inherent, infinite abundance- Creator b. Creation (mankind and all creatures).
Elysium (life) = natural, quieter, less use, etc.
World (body) = more, more powerful, louder, money, assets, facilities, higher education, jobs, etc.
Humankind’s life (breath) itself the free gift of real creator then how one can lives the way they want?
Say and do only good, for that is your life.
• Humankind is focusing a deteriorated body, which will be destroyed.
• God, lord, Allahu Akbar etc. are men made and given names for the fake Religion and its respefctive idol God made by men.
@@enjoyfullifenatural.cultiv8441 I'm sorry Who are you??
@@VipMike I'm sorry Who are you??
I’m of the Church of Jesus Christ (LDS). This is one of the greatest messages I’ve ever heard. Thank you. Agree with all you said.
Search up Mormon contradictions
As a former athlete and Christian, this hit home and inspired me so much. Thank you!
Iam not an athlete, but a former superhero!
Hardyharrr
In 1 Timothy it says "Train yourself in godliness, for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come." (4:7-8). I find this passage helpful to reflect on because while I find great enjoyment in physical exercise, I need to make sure I am not making an idol out of it.
Good physical health is great, but good spiritual health is essential.
Indeed and the two are not mutually exclusive. Far too many people think that you can only do one of them. Spiritual health is more important than physical health, but that doesn't mean that one can neglect the physical health of the body!
@@csongorarpad4670 This is so true. I will even go little further, in my opinion those two are connected. It is tough to be in a good spiritual health with a dysfunctional body (like a serious illness). Indeed, to be concentrated on the spiritual side with a body that is constantly in pain, it is harder. Not impossible, but harder.
@@JA-ub4ss if you let your body degrade that means for spiritual health cannot be good
@@om-qg7ju I can't agree more
@@JA-ub4ss 👍
Thank you Fr Mike 🌟
Training is the essence of transformation.
The wilderness is God's training ground for our spiritual growth.
Learn from our training of Communion and Confirmation
Honor the commitment to Jesus Christ
Cherish the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ🌻
Thank you Fr. Mike! I used to work out physically, and Pray regularly, but I lapsed with both of them. You've inspired me through bible in a year. When I felt like giving up, you encouraged me months ago to keep going with the BIAY, and I'm still with it, and I am going back to physical exercise. I pray for you. Gosh! I can become a saint? I never thought I could. I need as much help as possible. God bless!!
I work out as much as I can every morning - I'm disabled and working at getting my legs strong enough so I can walk. It's a challenge, but eventually I'll get there. I really love praying the rosary most of the time - I am able to go deeply into meditation and the world disappears and I'm just sitting there with God. Sometimes I just sit there. Sometimes he shows me what he wants of me. And other times he shows me how my prayers are being answered for someone else to be protected. It's all good.
Thank you father Mike
Thank you, Father. I can relate so much to this message. Sometimes I feel exhausted trying to be better in my spiritual life. I realized that I should let God do what He wants in me rather than doing what I want to. God bless!
Awesome underrepresented word; thanks Father Mike. Let us all train to win the prize. 🙏
For many years I worked out for vanity...but when my special needs son was born I started to looking for a deeper meaning of my workout...after a few years of reflecting on this I have changed my mindset from vanity to longevity. Now I workout to be as healthy and strong as posible to take care of this special boy that God gave me and support my Wife. Squating on my cold winter garage at 5:00am is not as hard as it sounds any more.
Fr Mike, Olympic Coach for the soul..!!!
As a professional athlete, one of my goals for my days off this week was to plan a more intentional at-home training routine. This video was exactly what I needed to help me understand how I can take the same concepts I use in my everyday life/career and apply it to my prayer & spiritual life.
Thank you Fr. Mike for saying yes to God so that so many of us can find ways to grow closer to our Lord. Praying for you and everyone at Ascension press!
God bless!
"I beat my body and make it my slave" is one of my favorite scripture St Paul quotes because it's so metal.
This video made me think of the spiritual life in a different way. Thank you Fr. Mike!
I spent my entire career in teaching and coaching football. Never once did I make this connection. Outstanding job Padre. You can bet I will steal this and use it with our youth. I will,of course, say where I got it....wink and nod
Wooooow... I'm a U.S. Marine, and this really helped me.
Listening to this was truly a blessing. No one has ever explained at the spiritual level. Beautifully done. All thanks be to God.
God bless you father Mike.
I'm so thankful to have seen this video Fr. Mike. You're point about praying with intention was a message that I needed to hear.
Wow this is an awesome answer for a 6 months' asking in prayer. AWESOME 🤩
I also loved doing workout, but then had am accident... Looking back, it really seems I didn't have any concrete aim other than enjoying being strong in others' admiring eyes.
My aim is to be God's great saint, I'll train to allow God to form me according to His timing and method.
And I am determined to have proper ammount of rest (in HIS PRESENCE)!
😻🤩
Even aimlessly working out to improve general well-being can in itself be purposeful. If you are alive longer, you have more chances to preach the faith to others. More human interactions, more time to do good on the planet, etc..
Thank you Father Mike for your positive suggestions 🙏🏻🕊🙏🏻
stumbled on this while 36wks pregnant and this all speaks to me! the concept of "stewards of our bodies" never feels more real than when I carry one of God's creation. Also, my training is so that i can go up and down stairs without getting winded. In my position/vocation, its kind of a goal post. 😆
Your blessing, Father. As a Catholic and a runner, I had the feeling that the video was made specifically for me. I will remember your apostolate in my prayers. A hug from Brazil.
Thanks!
Father Mike, thank you very much. God bless you.
I'm very grateful for discovering your channel here Father, thank you for serving your flock with such enthusiasm and devotion. You're deeply appreciated!
I’m really thankful for this video. I’ve been getting into bodybuilding for a lot of reasons, but a few are that I struggled fighting the sins of gluttony and sloth. I hope that training hard and eating what is temperate will help me to overcome the sins. I was worried this would condemn the actions I’ve been taking, but instead it helped illuminate the darkness I’ve been blind to. I’ve been running aimlessly in my spiritual life, and I’ve been wondering where to go for my life. Thank you for helping me see this.
Thank you Father Mike for your words of wisdom.
I was just talking about this the other day! I started strength training at the recommendation of my chiropractor for joint health and stability, but I just retired from professional bellydancing so I'm not worshipping and focusing on the body. So instead of doing it for physical benefit, I recite Psalm 18:32-26 and 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 while I do each set because it's His strength, not mine, that I'm focusing on and He gave me and built up my body to do His work. (It's my Matrix spoon moment each time, lol!)
As a cradle Catholic, it is so easy to forget how integral the Incarnation is to EVERY part of the Christian life. It is certainly pertinent to the verse, "pray without ceasing." Having the Incarnation as the basis of everyday life makes working out, going to work, drinking coffee, whatever all part of the unceasing prayer and praise to God for creating us Human beings as body, mind and spirit. Ut in omnia Deus glorificetur! Life is beautiful!
Thank you Fr Mike. I love this very much being a reverted Catholic that is a personal trainer. I can understand the analogy between the physical training and spiritual training immensely ❤️
Watching this video lead me to a serious revelation that is about to spur me on for the rest of my life
Thank you brother. I click on the video because I thought it was about working out. God is so good that he has given me what I needed to pursue excellence in my pursuit for Jesus.
This is so great! Thank you for talking about how important it is for us to care for our bodies as Christians!
Thank you Father for beautiful explanation in a simple way. God Bless.🙏
Thank you father for your message and bless me in my life especially when i sleep.
Yes, lets be Saints! Our gyms are too full, and our Churches are too empty.
"Train yourself for devotion, for, while physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future." 1 Tim 4:8
Do both.
As it says in acts, be strong in the faith and act like men.
As a longtime runner and fitness fanatic, I'm currently training for the Chicago Marathon in Oct, and I'm so happy to watch this video! Also started the road to become Catholic, going to mass for 3 months now!
I have a feeling that all the gym-bro's felt this one 🙏
Well said, intention and fulfillment towards that purpose of intention allows for a fuller and more real expression of the glory that is HIS creation!
Thank you Fr.Mike!
I hope I meet you one day❤️
This is a wonderful and relatable message. Thank you, Father Mike!
My body was a gift to me from the Lord to care for while I am here on earth, as it is my duty to care for His creation. It is a shame for a man to grow old without seeing the beauty and strength of which his body is capable. Glory to God in the highest
Thank you lord for these grains, bless us as we make these gains.
I am certainly still in the early stages of training. Started listening to your Bible In A Year podcast which has been instrumental in my growth as a Saint and proper worshipper of our Lord. Thank you for aiding me in my journey to rediscovering my faith and belief in Him!
This message is , sooo ‘On Point’ for me. It’s so very inspiring. Thank you Fr. Mike! 👍🏼🙏😊
Sure. Will do that. Thanks a lot. True freedom lies in him alone. God bless
I really enjoyed this video. I feel like what you are saying is finding a mission. Thinking about that mission and measuring how far you are on a day to day. 90 I pray because it’s good to pray. 10 percent I pray because I want something from God. Comfort and guidance. So now when I pray I’ll think of training!
Great analogy. When I was training for my first marathon, all of my runs were laid out for me each day to get to my time goal, and it was *mentally* easy to run 50 miles a week. I am no longer training for something, and now it's hard for me to go for a 20 minute jog! The same goes for my spiritual life. I have no goal or purpose when praying (e.i., to make me a better Christian, to be more like Jesus), I just pray because I know it's good for me. Thank you for sharing this wisdom Father. I will be changing up my prayer life now.
Nice analogy and great encouragement to “train” spiritually and physically 👌
I LOVE this video. Great analogy! Thank you, Fr. Mike!
So so good Fr Mike. Something I needed to refresh and revitalise my prayer life. Thank you. God bless your day.
This is a really good comparison to working out! Never thought of it like this.
This came right on time. 🙏🙏
I do workouts at home just to stay healthy..and i pray the holy rosary every night to strengthen my spiritual life and to grow closer to God.
Lol Well aren't you special.
Thanks Fr. Mike. Yep, 1 Timothy 4:8 and don’t skip leg day 😉
You can’t spell legendary without leg day 😊
St. Hyacinth, patron of weight lifting, pray for us!
Grateful, for this episode. I'm grateful for Endurance Sports. It gives me a sense of penance while in that long run throughout the night till my goal is reached and all is purged.
Finally someone makes a video about this very great parallels behind working out and the faith
Thank you for this video Father Mike, like always, quality content. I can't tell you how much you've helped me not only better understand my Faith, but to aspire to live my Faith with as much joy as you do yours. You can tell by your videos there's nothing you love more than the Lord, and talking about Him makes you intensely happy.
Thank God you chose to be a priest.
I'm so thankful I'm not even gonna nitpick and mention the fact that shadow boxing is a fundamental part of fight training, where you don't throw senseless punches into the air just to warm up like it was some 8:30 am fitness boxing class for mothers, but a scenario-based, goal oriented conning of your fighting abilities, be that combination punching, footwork, defense, or violent creativity.
Nah, I'm not gonna say any of that because the video was great and it's just a detail and no one besides a washed-up boxer would care.
Anyway, God bless you Father Mike!
I love that Fr Mike is a fellow runner 🙌
I so enjoy your message and your teaching. As an older person though I find the speed with which you speak making listening really a challenge. I wonder if you imagined that someone is sitting across from you you’d pace you thoughts! Thank you
Спасибо, хорошее слово! Thanx for the good word.
I thought he was suggesting that I begin to exercise -what a relief!
Hello Father
Whilst many people can become obsessed with the body, and exercise it in the hopes of achieving a vain or prideful goal such as an attractive appearance or the ability to over come others (whether in sports or in combat etc). There is also within exercise, to be found a spiritual essence and that is, Exercise can be used as a way to conquer our own weakness and break free from the demonic grasp.
Many young men are now suffering mentally and spiritually due to the Demons of Depression, Lust, Sloth, Greed, Envy etc. Exercise can be used as a way to fight for Salvation and God as we can break free from many of them with the tool of exercise.
When we hear the call of Sloth we can use our body in a way that we quiet the voice.
When we hear the call of Greed and Gluttony we can Give up rich foods and put ourselves into Painful situations.
When we hear envy we can give up all we have once more and run in the cold rain.
When we lust after others we can remind ourselves through the suffering that is to be found in hard exercise that Jesus suffered for our sins.
It is important however that when we do we do not step into the traps of Pride and being Boastful about what we do however and it should not be seen as vain, It is in my opinion a form of prayer and just as was taught we should keep Prayer private.
We can Pray in public and put on a show but we are taught to pray in private
Just as Exercise can be Prideful but it should be done in private and peace.
I think the Distinction between the two is important and i personally use exercise as a way to become a better man and servant of god.
Anyway that's how I see it.
hope your well and God bless Father
WE GO JIM!💪🏻✝️
Thank you for expounding upon your point, it helped, thanks
Yep. A very good question indeed. Thank you Fr Mike. God bless you always.
Perfect timing for this video thank you 🙏🏻💙
I feel like the Lord was talking to me through this video. I am often just showing up for the bare minimum. It’s time to both train physically and spiritually.
I constantly remind others to, “Always stay strong, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally and more important spiritually!” All mighty men of God should all strive to stay strong no matter what. Healthy and strong Christian Patriots will be needed to fight not only for our lives but our souls as well.
Proverbs 4;23-24 “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house , his possessions are safe.”
Song of Solomon 3:8 “All of them are wielders of the sword, expert in war, each man has a sword at his side, guarding against the terror of the night.”
Joshua 1: 7-9 “ Be strong and very courageous.”
Zechariah 8:9 This is what the Lord of the Heavenly Armies says, “ Let your hands be strong...”
Psalms 144:1 Praise the Lord, who is my rock. He trains my hands for battle and gives my fingers skill for battle...”
Ephesians 6:11/13 “Put on your full amor of God...so when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.”
We are Warriors of Christ and as men of Faith we are to Love God with our heart, soul, mind and strength.
Gracias Fr. Mike!
Great video! A lot of people have sold their bodies away with yoga. Also yes in just normal exercising many just go through the motions w/ no purpose in mind (which is important)
This really brings out my weakness head on. I pray , ut is it enough. Do I take care of my body that God has given me, definately not as I should. I pray that I would love myself as He loves me.
Thank you Father Mike . Hopefully hearing this will help me to do better in my prayer life and taking care of my body, which is a gift from God.
Maybe I am heading God through you.
I have also fallen victim to aimless physical excercise but I see now it was God laying a simple foundation I was ready for towards something much greater. Similary I was a raised catholic in a system designed to repeat purposeless ritual workouts yet it allowed me to believe in something so I could break free from and build a greater understanding of the bibles plan for me.
, Yes. Train my spirit, my mind and my body and pray that God through the Holy Spirit guides to do more good.
The way I see it, is to do good and help others, we need to be strong and healthy enough ourselves to do this.