Lessons On The Run

Yesterday we talked about the physical work required to stay fit. Today I want to ask you how much work do you put in on the spiritual side of your life?

I think that many of us just want to become more like Christ by osmosis. We eat, live, and breathe, and magically God transforms us into the person, spouse, parent, child, that He wants us to be. Unfortunately, God tells us often in His Word that it is just not that way. Consider the following scripture references.

1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.

Philippians 2:12
So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling;

Colossians 1:10
so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Colossians 1:29
For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.

2 Timothy 2:15
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.

2 Timothy 4:5
But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

James 2:17
Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.

1 Corinthians 9:27
but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

1 Timothy 4:7
But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness;for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.

It seems like our spiritual health is much like our physical health. If we want to be spiritually strong and fit, we must work, expending time, energy, and effort. We must prioritize out time in His Word, speaking and listening to Him in prayer, serving and finding fellowship in His Church, and sharing the gospel in an unwelcoming world.

I believe that the lack of effectiveness for the American church in the world today is that we as believers have become spiritually obese, eager to eat of the goodness that God gives to us but unwilling to workout our faith as God has commanded. We love the desserts of God’s blessings but shun the the effort required of God’s commands. What do we get? A lethargic body of believers looking to be spoon fed at the table and missing the rewards that come from a healthy mix of nutrition and work. In addition, we add the junk food of culture which makes us go from bad to worse. We are a sitting duck for the enemy who is prowling, looking for who he may destroy!

Consider your spiritual health even more than your physical health! What does a man gain if he gains a perfectly fit body and yet loses his soul.

until next week,

steve