Train as if to win the prize

Train as if to win the prize

by Kim Hawkins

 

Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-36

Taking a break from exercise seemed to be the right thing to do at the time, but my returning to find loss of stamina and strength was a real big disappointment!  Was the break I took really worth it? Did it show in other ways, too?

Weights that were the right size to lift had gotten heavy!  The reps are now much harder to complete. This happened to me recently — and as I pondered my lost strength and endurance I could feel the Lord showing me a very important comparison.

When we do not remain faithful to His teachings, or spend time in prayer and seeking his will and guidance, the easier it becomes to slip into our old sinful ways. When the “other voices” (lies of the enemy, the world’s view, ect) start to be louder and then drown out His still, small voice - I am weaker and much more vulnerable to falling into a trap of sin. When I am not meditating on His word, which is the source of all truth, I am susceptible to whatever the world throws my way.

How are you doing keeping your strength up? Would you like to be stronger than you are today? We must train our bodies to win the race!!

Paul says, “No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” 1 Corinthians 9:27

“For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.” Romans 8:13

CHALLENGE: Allow plenty of time in your schedule to meet with God alone in a quiet place. Delve into His living and active Word and let it do a great work in you. To keep your strength up, stick with it!