“No matter how slow you go, you’re still beating the guy sitting on the couch.”
I recently noticed this phrase posted on the bulletin board at the gym. There is so much encouragement and truth wrapped up in that little sentence. As I thought about the meaning it hit me how comparable physical fitness and spiritual growth are.
Three things came to my mind as I compared the two disciplines:
1. There will always be an EXCUSE.
If you are anything like me than you can relate to the amount of times I have made excuses or come up with other things to do (and I mean ANYTHING) rather than exercise. We have a way of making things that are not important seem as if they really are if it will help us get out of what we do not feel like doing. Or, in other words, are too LAZY to do.
This is true concerning spiritual disciplines as well. How often do we choose other things rather than spending time in prayer or reading the Bible? It’s funny (or maybe not), that when I began writing this post it was in the middle of my mandatory reading for school. Did I perhaps choose to write this blog to get out of reading… maybe… ; )
2. Accountability is NECESSARY.
There are certain days of the week that I know I will run into friends at the gym, they’re always there and it is encouraging to me. We thrive off of each other. We want to see each other reach our goals. We can share advice and learn from one another.
In our spiritual walk few things are as important as accountability and Christian friendship. It is difficult to go against the current when you are the only one, but if there is a team surrounding you the destination is much more attainable. Accountability keeps us on course and true to our word, and His. Nothing will catapult a person quicker and farther than when they allow their self to be surrounded with people who care about them and are like-minded.
3. The more consistent you are the STRONGER you become.
Significant strides can be hard to notice unless viewed weeks or even months at a time when it comes to changing ones physique. However, over time one will notice that they can run farther, run faster, and even handle more weight; they have become stronger. This comes only through consistency and dedication, but the results are well worth it.
These kinds of strides are possible spiritually as well. No one should want to be the same person they were ten years ago, or to be the same ten years from now. This type of change is referred to in the church as “sanctification” but all that means is we are progressively being made into the image of God in character and love. This can be a painful process of self-sacrifice and self-examination but the fruit of our life will be much sweeter.
What similarities do you see between the two disciplines?
How can your encourage growth in these areas in your own life and those you lead?
Please feel free to comment below.
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God bless.
– Evan Doyle
