Theme: No Pain, No Gain

Verse: For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18)

When athletes train one of the common adages heard is “No Pain, No Gain.” It’s great motivation to do an extra set of weights, or run another mile on the trail. But can the same motivational saying be applied to the rest of our lives?

Answer, Sure!

If we want to grow SPIRITUALLY, our faith must be tested. We need to engage in situations in which we must depend on God instead of our own strength. In short, we need to get out of our comfort zone and really dig into His word.

If we want to grow RELATIONALLY, we need to consider others before ourselves. Put aside our selfishness and lay down our pride. We must extend forgiveness when harboring resentment may be the easier path.

If we want to grow MENTALLY, we must seek new learning experiences and engage with others who know more than we do (for me, FINALLY there is something on the list that’s easy to find). Seek out those experts and find out not only what they know but find out how they think.

If we want to grow EMOTIONALLY, we need to experience what others are feeling. That is, “walk in their shoes” before rushing to judgment or to “SOLVE” their problems.

The Apostle Paul did all these things. In Romans he said that no matter what present suffering he endured (and he endured plenty), it was not worth comparing to the glory that all believers will experience because of Christ’s suffering on the cross.

God will walk with us through our pain. We just need to stay in the game. Push beyond your perceived capabilities and let God help you grow to be everything He intended.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from True Competitor by Dan Britton and Jimmy Page