Yeah, yeah, I am sure you have heard that before, and probably believe it to an extent. But do you really understand it? This morning I woke up sore, and I fully credit it to my workout yesterday- the first since July! And my thought was, "that was a pretty good workout!" Then I got to thinking about how we judge how 'well' our work out was (whether it is to gain muscle or lose weight) by the pain we feel afterwards. Then generally, in my case at least, I have to wait a day in between to give myself time to recover and that day quickly turns into a week or two (or more). I have a hard time maintaining the habit because I want to give my body time to recover and rest, thus it becomes very inconsistent.
Are there any other areas where we view pain as acceptable or a good sign? I think that we should change the way we look at things. What have you put off because you know it will hurt or be uncomfortable? So often we fall into the misconception, or trap, of waiting on God's timing (or any better timing! I will start working out again once we are back into a normal routine...) because we think that will take all of the pain of the change away. Let's get real here: you wouldn't be fat, or out of shape, if you ate right and took better care of yourself. Waiting for the stars to align is about as far fetched as thinking that you will one day wake up a size 2 or that brownies will have cleaned your house!
There are so many things I would love to accomplish, but the truth is that they will never get done until I take that first step. It will most likely cost me some time, maybe money, and even blood, sweat and tears! But when I look back that pain will be worth it. Anyone ever had a baby? After the labor comes the delivery! Then you are holding the finished product (of pregnancy- it doesn't stop there!), and all the pain is suddenly worth it.
Last Sunday our pastor gave a great message, and one of the key things he said was "the cost of fulfillment never goes on sale'. Whatever you are wanting to have or accomplish you will have to pay a price for. The great thing is that the pain won't last forever. It may burn at first, but then it will fade to an ache and the next thing you know you are stronger! I am so glad that "when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:10. His grace is enough for me!
"Now may the God of peace...strengthen (complete and perfect) and make you what you ought to be and equip you with everything good that you may carry out His will; while He himself works in you and accomplished that which is pleasing in His sight." 2 Corinthians 13:20-21
Now, don't go out and shred your muscles to the point that you can't walk in the morning! But start stretching yourself. Say 'no' to some things. Say 'yes' to some others. Make the first move!
