Series: Training For ExcellenceI was in my late thirties and overweight. Something had to be done. So I thought, “Why not run?” And I did.
Running requires training the body to endure, and I was preparing to run 5K races. Winning wasn’t in the mix; I just wanted to finish. I ran several times each week, but too much weight, bad knees and shin splints slowed my gait. I ran for a while-and even finished several races, but eventually relegated my exercise to walking. I quickly learned that maintaining one’s energy level is vital if running-or any other vigorous exercise, is your forte’.
Running in God’s venue requires high spiritual energy levels also. Let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us (Hebrews 12:1 NLT).
Jesus’ stint in the wilderness demonstrates the importance of maintaining soaring spiritual energy levels. Satan waited until he had fasted forty days before tempting him. Charles Stanley, pastor of First Baptist Church, Atlanta, Georgia, uses the acronym HALT and says we should never get too hungry, angry, lonely or tired.
Maintaining intense spiritual energy through prayer, Bible study, faith sharing, meditation, and corporate fellowship are noble practices, but so is maintaining healthy eating habits and pursuing positive emotional states. Ancient philosophers struggled with whether humans were mind or matter or a combination of both. Our bodies are single entities erected with physical, emotional and spiritual components. Low energy levels in any one area can affect all three. Excellent living requires the diligent training of our entire body. Let God show you any areas of low energy.
Prayer: Almighty God, energize us physically, spiritually and emotionally that we might effectively accomplish Your work.
You are so right. When we allow ourselves to become too hungry,angry,lonely or tired, we leave ourselves open to temptation. The better course is to take care of ourselves...not only physically, but by feeding on the Word of God - the best offensive weapon there is! Blessings, Joan
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed your post. I'm on a similar path and enjoying a better/healthier lifestyle through exercise, better food choices and following Christ!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing, Roy