Physical Health: Strength Training Matters

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.”

Psalms 28:7-8 (NIV)

Has there been a time where you were just so sure and confident that all was going so well?

Any exercise, including running, takes practice to get started.
Physical activity is challenging, but if you remain diligent and learn proper form, get the appropriate equipment, it gets easier, and you are on your way.
Your confidence soars and you accomplish more than you ever thought possible.  

This was my story…This describes the running journey for many, until…the injury, the pain, the setback. 

WHAT HAPPENED?

In many cases, setbacks such as injury are related to a certain muscles or areas of the body that were not prepared for repeated use and consistent impact. Intentionally including strength building as part of your training plan strengthens and protects certain areas in your body.
For instance, the knee is prone to injury if not careful. 
Runners should be intentional in building up muscles around the knees.
Whole body resistance training is vital for strengthening all your muscles, so they can withstand the repetitive muscle contractions.

When you focus on strengthening the whole body instead of only running, it does make a tremendous difference and you truly will be able to run with endurance.

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)

This concept rings true in your spiritual walk with Jesus.
Having the strength to persevere in this world takes deliberate action. Let me explain.

When you study and meditate on the Word and pray fervently, you are building a victorious foundation in Jesus Christ.
The strength that the Lord will provide through you is amazing and awesome.

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Philippians 4:13 (NIV)

But you should not stop there.
While we feel strong in the Lord, the worldly temptations do not stop.
We must find various ways to keep our focus on Jesus.

How?
Encourage one another, fellowship with other believers, speak the truth to those who ask about Jesus, and share the Gospel message.
Look for divine opportunities to continue encouraging one another.
This will help us persevere and remain diligent in building our faith.

Read and meditate on the verses below.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” 

Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Prayer and Reflection

1. What areas do you want to strengthen specifically?  Identify areas in your body where you feel the most soreness, tenderness, or pain and develop a strength building plan.
2. Who can you encourage today?  Challenge yourself daily to reach out to someone and give them an encouraging Word.
3. What scripture speaks to you regarding strength?  There are so many! Invite the Lord to be your strength daily. Enjoy the freedom and liberty that comes from letting go and letting the Lord lead in all things.