Sunday, March 7

Spiritual Muscle Building 

Scripture: 

No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening- it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. Hebrews 12:11 

Observation: 

Training is hard. Especially in the beginning. God is telling us that there is a harvest after the initial work of building new spiritual habits. The key is discipline and continuing to train ourselves without giving up. 

Application: 

Like any new habit, it takes perseverance. Remember the last time you did hard physical labor and the next day your muscles were sore? That’s because it’s new and our body isn’t used to it. It feels like this heavy burden but when you stick with it, your body builds in strength and endurance. Our spirit works in the same way! Form a plan and set some spiritual practices in place. You don’t have to do it all, you can start small. Perseverance is key! Pray and read your word daily. If you have a bad day just jump right back on! Watch how God will grow you. Don’t give up. 

Prayer: 

Today I am committing to further my spiritual growth. I will get through the initial pains in full faith that You will build my spiritual muscles and create a soldier out of me. I want to be strong and the only way to do this is to continue to grow spiritually in You. Thank you for the opportunity to do this no matter my circumstances.