Ready:
“For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8
Set:
A coach knows the importance of practice. Using the short amount of time each week to train game plans and skills is essential to game success. Our athletes, however, do not always have a positive, coachable attitude regarding practice. To be fair, I do not always have a positive attitude about my training either. Getting on the treadmill for another session of cardio is sometimes a chore. But training is essential.
As the Holy Spirit leads you, He will begin to transform you into a new person with a new mindset. Just like a practice session for your athletes helps them, so will training with the Holy Spirit. If you want to see growth in your relationship with God and a transformation in your heart, you must put in the time and work. Let’s break this down into three main parts:
- Spiritual Training Transforms You – Spiritual training will transform your entire life. From the way you think and your priorities to how you treat and love others.
- Spiritual Training Motivates You – Spiritual disciplines are the way we participate in growing in our relationship with God. The Bible lays out the plan for these disciplines by studying and memorizing God’s Word, prayer and worship, and fellowship with other believers. Our motivation is to know and love God more. When we spend time with Jesus, we become more like Christ as a result.
- Spiritual Training Helps You Know God – Like practicing the butterfly stroke or a jump shot, when you master a discipline, you obtain and secure that knowledge for yourself. When you are consistent with your spiritual training, you get to know God and His plan for your life better.
At first, spiritual training might feel like drudgery. Then, if you stick with it, a discipline. And ultimately, a delight. Eventually, your time with God and other believers is what you should look forward to each day. It gives you strength and motivation to face any situation that comes your way.
Go:
- What do you think God desires your spiritual workout to look like?
- What distractions stop you from making these changes?
Workout:
- 1 Timothy 4:8
- Colossians 3:23
Overtime:
“Lord, thank You for giving me the talent and ability to glorify You. Help me to stay consistent in my spiritual training so that I may strengthen my core and know You more. Amen.”