(Multiply Archives)
Recently, I finally finished a sort of “homework assignment from God.” I felt led to read, reread, copy, reread I Peter. It was a pretty big disciplining experience as well as an enlightening one.
One of the verses that strengthened my resolve in life said: “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;”
Here is the thing–”if necessary.” Any difficulty that arises can not only be used for good(i.e. an opportunity to grow) they are necessary in life. That awareness along with other verses from the same book ( “. . . Prepare your minds for action . . .” “all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. . . . For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and his ears attend to their prayers . . .”) Gave a new focus in my life. I was strengthened in my internal battles against sin, and in my commitment to live for God. They really go together. I still trip at times, or become tired and start to drag my feet, but the point is to keep going.
A parallel in the physical world would be my martial arts class that I added on Thursday August 25. It was hard work getting through the exercises they had us do. I felt like falling down. It was, leg lifts, fast as you can go! 20 seconds–10 second breath–drop push ups to the side, as many as you can, 20 seconds–10 second breath before–jump squats back and forward, 20 seconds–10 second breath–jump down sideways, into the air, down the other side, 20 seconds–10 sec. breath–one legged squats, 20 seconds, you can go faster–10 second breath–Do you get the point? It was hard and fast and they kept us at it for 4 minutes, gave us a 1 minute break and had us going again, and so on until we had gone at least 15 minutes. The ten second breaks were just long enough to make me realize how weak I was. They lead us in stretches and then talked with us before dismissing us. I felt wobbly and amazing, similar to when I realized that the blessing I inherit is the Creator’s personal attention.
Then I realized, I need to keep this up. If I don’t, I’m going to be a pulp next time. So Friday morning, I exercised with some roommates a bit. I was terribly stiff and sore Friday night, but there was still the realization that this was a good thing. The pain will not last forever, endurance will come. The same goes for my spiritual life, and that is exciting.
So, now I'm reading Micah (re-reading), and tomorrow will be my second martial arts class. My legs have just regained approximate normalcy. Here's to continued growth!
