“Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle.” Napoleon Hill.
I have come to the conclusion that I will never have sexy six pack abs. Seriously though, as I am getting older. I am satisfied to build and maintain strength; especially my inner core strength. The latter involves muscles I cannot even see; but they make a huge difference to daily life. These muscles significantly impact my everyday balance, agility, stability and aid in the prevention of injury. All of which I have taken for granted in my youth.
It occurred to me that my spiritual and emotional inner strength might benefit from the same attention I have given my physical core strength training. I am challenged that perhaps my routine in these areas have been more like bingeing than a regular, disciplined approach. I am always amazed to discover new muscles in need of strengthening every six weeks when the personal trainer alters my programme. Why not be as intentional and include variety in other areas of my life?
This week I have been thinking a lot about changes to my routine that will benefit my spiritual and emotional inner strength whilst being sustainable. As a Christian who places a high priority on reading the Bible, I decided to challenge myself to read through the Bible in a year. I also feel to challenge my gratitude and thankful muscles by disciplining myself to write in a gratitude journal. Apparently, this exercise will build my emotional and mental strength.
As Napoleon Hill reminds us, it is continuous effort and struggle that builds strength and brings growth. Life has a way of bringing challenges that provide opportunity to test and grow muscle; physical, spiritual and mental/emotional. Like any challenge, prior training assists in preventing injuries as well as providing balance, agility and stability for completing the course. Whilst we cannot prepare for every situation, we can prepare our core strength so we thrive and not just survive the journey.
Whilst my intentions are good, my flesh is quite weak. That is why I have needed the support and encouragement of a personal trainer and class instructor from time to time. My membership at the gym has also been a motivating factor to keep me committed. Last time I had an assessment, I swear my trainer was more excited than I was with my results.
Emotionally and mentally I have benefited the most from a professional supervisor and mentors who have challenged and coached me for growth and resilience. Spiritually, I have been enriched by the warm fellowship of other Christians meeting to study the Bible and pray together. And most of all, my real inner strength comes from my relationship with Jesus.
The good news is we do not have to struggle and sweat for our spiritual inner strength. We have a supernatural helper in Christ Jesus. Through His Spirit we can be strengthened. It is not by brute strength but a glorious inner strength available if we open the door and invite him in. (The Message Ephesians 3:16)
How strong is your inner core? What will you do this week to ensure you have balance, agility, stability and protection from injury for every day life? Will you turn to Jesus for the glorious inner strength he offers? Shalom.
Photo by Stijn Swinnen on Unsplash
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