In this heartfelt exploration of faith during difficult seasons, we examine how beauty and purpose can emerge from life's challenges – much like a rose blooming despite its thorns. Through personal stories and biblical wisdom, we discover that having faith doesn't mean avoiding struggles, but rather choosing to trust God's goodness even when the path gets thorny. Whether you're questioning your faith, facing personal trials, or simply seeking encouragement, this honest conversation about real faith in real moments reminds us that we're not alone in our journey. Join us as we explore what it truly means to say "even then" when life gets tough.

Through Salty & Lit Co., I'm sharing my raw, unfiltered journey of pursuing health while growing spiritually. This isn't about before-and-after photos or quick fixes. It's about the daily decision to show up, even when motivation is low, and choosing to believe that every small step forward – whether in fitness or faith – matters.

What makes our community different is our commitment to progress over perfection. We're not here to pretend we have it all figured out. Instead, we're learning together how to:

• Face our struggles with food and fitness while leaning on God's strength

• Build healthy habits that honor both our bodies and our beliefs

• Find joy in the journey, even when results take longer than we'd like

• Transform our mindset about health and healing through a faith-based lens

When we think about boundaries, we might feel guilty, as if we're being selfish or unloving. But the truth is, Jesus himself modeled healthy boundaries throughout his ministry. After long days of teaching and healing, He would withdraw to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16). Even when crowds were searching for Him, He maintained these boundaries, knowing that His connection with the Father was essential to His mission.

The wisdom of Proverbs tells us, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" (Proverbs 4:23). Setting boundaries isn't about building walls; it's about creating sacred space where our relationship with God can flourish.

Let's be honest: our comfort zones are cozy. They're predictable, safe, and require minimal effort. Like a well-worn path, we know every bump and turn. But here's the truth I've learned the hard way – while comfort zones protect us from pain, they also shield us from growth. As Isaiah 43:19 reminds us, "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

Scripture is filled with stories of people who failed but didn't stay down. Peter denied Christ three times (Luke 22:54-62), yet became a pillar of the early church. David committed adultery and murder, yet God still called him a man after His own heart (Acts 13:22). Moses fled after killing an Egyptian, yet God used him to lead His people to freedom.

"The righteous may fall seven times but still get up, but the wicked stumble in trouble" (Proverbs 24:16). Notice it doesn't say "if" the righteous fall, but "though" they fall. The expectation is that falls will happen – what matters is the getting up.

"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6).

Starting Your Journey with Grace

You know those days when you feel overwhelmed by all the changes you want to make? Take a deep breath. Remember that verse from Philippians - God's not expecting overnight transformation. Maybe today it's just swapping your usual rushed morning coffee for a quiet moment with Scripture and a nourishing breakfast. That's enough. That's starting somewhere.

Think about it like learning to play an instrument - you don't start with a complex symphony. Maybe your first "integrated practice" is simply taking a 10-minute walk while listening to worship music, or doing gentle stretches while meditating on a single verse. It's not about doing it perfectly; it's about showing up with an open heart.

I love how this journey unfolds differently for everyone. For some, it might mean learning to say "no" to that late-night social media scroll and "yes" to restful sleep, trusting that God delights in our rest as much as our work. For others, it could be choosing to view meal prep as an act of worship - nourishing the body God gave you while playing your favorite sermon or podcast.

And on those days when you skip your morning quiet time or choose the drive-thru over the healthy meal you planned? That's where the grace part really shines. Remember - the same God who's patient with your spiritual growth is patient with your physical journey too. You're not behind. You're not failing. You're learning, growing, and becoming - one small choice at a time.

This isn't about adding more "shoulds" to your life. It's about finding those sweet spots where caring for your body becomes another way to draw closer to God. Because ultimately, this journey isn't about perfection - it's about progress in His presence.