My current experiences at the gym have been teaching me many spiritual principles—one in particular: Resistance Training. Wikipedia describes RT as “a form of strength training in which effort is performed against a specific opposing force generated by resistance (i.e. resistance to being pushed, squeezed, stretched or bent).” Hmmm. “Training involves both moving against a force as well as holding still against an external force in order to develop muscle and improve over-all health and well-being.”
Not being familiar with the machines at the gym, I hired a trainer. My first introduction to RT was leg-pushing 65 lbs. of weight (20 reps) followed by leg-lifting 55 lbs. of iron. I was to do this routine three times. Mind you, this is my first day at the gym. Ever. By the middle of the first round of leg-lifts, I’m looking painfully at my wiggling thighs and then at my trainer and said, “Really? You’re trying to make this jelly actually DO something?” Realizing my jelly plight, he helped lift the weight as I finished my torture, um, beneficial exercise.
As I limped out of the gym, I thought of how the Holy Spirit as our divine Teacher develops our spiritual well-being through the challenges of life. He stands with us in the midst of opposing and pushy circumstances, empowering us with truth to be strong in faith, not quit, and to resist unbelief. He helps us in our times of weakness when we feel squeezed to the limit, thinking we can’t bear it any more, by making our burden light with His peace. His grace encourages us that He will never put on us more than we can bear, while affirming that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. We feel painfully stretched by situations, but as we listen to our Heavenly Trainer His wisdom enlarges our understanding to persevere with trust in God that builds spiritual muscle and stamina. And when our thoughts and emotions are impacted by some forceful conflict that tempts us to get bent out of shape, His presence fills us with love to oppose offense.
Father isn’t raising wimpy kids. But as Daniel 11:32 states, “those who know their God will be strong and do exploits.” Resistance training not only builds muscle and well-being, but it brings “definition” to our shape. It “defines” us. So the next time you meet some opposing force that is pushing, squeezing, stretching or bending you, look to your Heavenly Trainer for His instructions….and get those jelly limbs moving in the power of His might and the strength of His love.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Eph. 6:10
J Nicole – Daughter of the All Powerful One
pic by stayfitbug.com
