Am I Skinny Yet???

 He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. 

Isaiah 50:5 (NIV)

Standing in the grocery store check-out line, I can’t help but “check out” the thin celebrities gracing the covers of countless magazines.  Taking in their seemingly flawless frames nearly always yields the same response:  a quick peek at my own work-in-progress-frame…followed by a sigh.  

 

Does anyone out there LOVE to exercise?  I’ll admit the results of exercise are wonderful:  toned body parts, energy, stamina, natural serotonin…but none of the “payoff” or results come without time and energy invested.  You have to make the effort to get up and move!  I don’t know how many times I have begun a workout routine and, after only a day or two, gone to the mirror expecting to see dramatic change.  It’s not there.  Then the excuses follow:  my metabolism must be slow, maybe my thyroid isn’t working.  Results require time and commitment.

 

Our spiritual work-out is very similar.  Reading the Bible, memorizing scripture, witnessing to others and even praying begins as a daily choice.  You have to “get up” from what you were doing and choose to move in a new spiritual direction.   I would love to have the biblical knowledge and insight of Beth Moore or Billy Graham.  Am I willing to do what it takes to grow strong in the Lord?  Can I expect to flex my spiritual muscles with great effect after a short time in the Word?  

 

Begin today by memorizing a scripture or reading His Word.  Daily disciplines of sitting at the Master’s feet will strengthen your spirits.

 

Lord, I know I am not always disciplined in my commitment to You. Today I commit to be more:  more committed, more faithful and more disciplined. You say in your Word we are more than conquerors. Help me to be more. God, be with the leaders of the Faith as they stand for You.  Watch over our pastors and churches.  Protect them from the enemy’s snares. Help them to not grow weary in the work You have called them to.