Embracing New Strengths and Shattering Old Limits

First, let me say a huge thank you for the overwhelming number of birthday well-wishes from people all over the world! My heart is full, and my index finger may be experiencing some delayed onset muscle soreness from pressing the “like” button so much. I’m deeply grateful for all of you who’ve taken the time to reach out and make my day so special.

This morning, I celebrated my 65th birthday with something I never thought I’d do again. I dropped to the floor and completed 65 pushups—one for each year—plus an extra for good measure. After a brief rest, I followed it with another 35 pushups (and one more, of course). While I could clearly tell I’ve been building strength through daily consistency, that didn’t stop my arms from feeling like noodles as I knocked out the last few reps. Still, I finished strong, and that’s what matters.

Earlier this year, I came across a study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health that revealed a fascinating link between pushup capacity and longevity. The research showed that men who could perform more than 40 pushups had a significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events—96% lower than men who could do fewer than 10. https://www.businessinsider.com/men-who-can-do-40-push-ups-less-at-risk-of-heart-disease-study-finds-2019-2

Inspired by this, and recognizing the importance of building strength for the long haul, I decided to work on my pushup game.

At first, even 20 pushups were a challenge—far from the 40 I needed to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) when I left active duty in 1992. But through small, consistent efforts, I began to see progress. By November, I took on a 100-pushups-a-day challenge, usually breaking it into two sets of 50. Some days, I pushed further, with a personal best of 70 in one set. The most valuable lesson? That daily habits—however small—add up over time.

This experience has been a powerful reminder of how limiting beliefs can hold us back. When I started, I didn’t believe I’d ever be able to do the numbers I’m doing now. But consistency, persistence, and the willingness to try showed me otherwise. It’s a lesson that applies to all areas of life.

To repeat a verse I quoted in an earlier post this week, the Apostle Paul reminds us: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” (1 Corinthians 9:24). Paul isn’t talking about athletics but about living with purpose, discipline, and perseverance. It’s not about finishing first—it’s about running faithfully and staying in the race.

This isn’t just about pushups. It’s about habits, consistency, and finishing strong. The discipline required to maintain physical health mirrors the commitment needed in our spiritual lives. Building habits of prayer, Scripture reading, and service to others takes the same persistence. As Paul also reminds us, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:8).

As I reflect on this milestone, I’m reminded that it’s not just about what we accomplish but about the person we’re becoming. To my friends, especially those reaching similar milestones, let me encourage you: whatever you’re facing—whether it’s physical, mental, or spiritual—don’t let limiting beliefs stop you. Start small. Be consistent. And trust that with each step forward, you’re building something stronger.

Let us embrace the wisdom of Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Each day is a gift, offering us the opportunity to grow stronger in body, mind, and spirit. Here’s to finishing our races strong and running with endurance, all the way to the ultimate prize.

Thank you, Lord, for the strength to persevere, the grace to grow, and the wisdom to trust in Your plans for every step of the journey.