As you know by now, I have been dealing with some rehab due to neck back and knee procedure. The blood platelet and growth factor injections knocked me out harder than anticipated. For two months, my body has been the weakened state. That combined with other treatments and a winter of bad viruses, has left me without much training and climbing for the past six months.
Two weeks ago, I took my first climb and just this past week I started training again at the gym. Boy am I weak! But I will say this, oh how have missed climbing the gym. On Saturday, I left the gym feeling amazing. I had a really good workout, and for the first time felt totally energized. As we were leaving, I said to my husband, “I need to remember how good I feel. That way I will keep coming back.”
Just then God showed me that my body was not the only thing that needed training. I am not only physically out of shape. I am also spiritually. I have a hard time being disciplined about getting to the gym. I am also not very disciplined about spending time with God, and growing stronger spiritually.
Come near to God and he will come near to you. – James 4:8a
Just like our bodies, our spiritual life requires exercise to grow and remain strong. How do we exercise in a way that strengthens our relationship with God? For any relationship to grow, time is essential. By shutting off the noise of the phones, television, and the busyness of life, I have an opportunity for one-on-one time with God. Think about the important relationships you have in life. My husband and I need times where it is just the two of us, away from distractions of life. If that does not happen, we can tend to drift apart and not communicate as well. The same goes for my relationship with God. I need that regular time with Christ to feel connected and close to Him.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. – Romans 8:28
I find that as my spiritual life is strong, the other aspects of my life are strengthened as well. I am better able to face life’s challenges when my relationship with Christ is sound. The more I spend time with God, the more I am in sync with His calling for my life.
As I return to climbing, I am struck by how weak I feel. These high steps that were once one of my specialties, now take a little more maneuvering in order to get my thigh to engage. Climbing is much more enjoyable when you eat right and train. The stronger and healthier you are, the better you will be at climbing.
Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. – Romans 10:17
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. – Psalm 119:105
The same goes for Spiritual strength. The more you spend time with God by studying His Word, praying, and worshiping, the healthier you will be spiritually. As a result, you will be much stronger to face the difficult challenges in life.
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. – Psalm 91:1
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. – Revelations 3:20
So, as you embark on wellness in your life, do not just focus on the physical. Take the time to get to know your living Creator and friend Jesus Christ. I guarantee your efforts will not return void. After all, life is more fun when you’re fit!
