“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
– 1 Corinthians 9:25-27
When we were in school, most of us learned about Newton’s law of inertia, which says (in a nutshell) that an object already in motion stays in motion unless acted upon by an outside force. On the contrary, any form of matter that’s at rest remains at rest unless it’s moved by something outside of itself. And while this doesn’t seem terribly profound, I think it provides valuable insight into what many of us are dealing with as we transition to a busier and more normal life after the pandemic. When we were in the thick of the shutdown, things around us ground to a halt, and we got used to being in a state of isolation and stillness. Though this certainly had its advantages, the inertia we learned to embrace has become, in some ways, a stumbling block. Today, many of us are faced with opportunities to resume useful activities, but we find ourselves resisting. Perhaps it’s because we’re concerned about our health, or maybe it has to do with not knowing where to begin. Whatever it is, my encouragement is to start moving. We don’t have to conquer the world, but we do need to pick a point and resume the journey forward. Whether it’s committing to regular church attendance, going back to volunteering, joining a Bible Study, or meeting consistently with friends, adopting new routines will spur forward motion in other areas, and we’ll become all-around more positive and productive people! My friend, your Savior is changing you from glory to glory. Though He stands outside of time, He is a growth-oriented God, and He delights in making you more like Him through the interaction and activities of everyday life. He loves you too much to let you stagnate, and He bids you embrace healthy rhythms that will keep you emotionally and spiritually sound. Whatever He’s tugging at your heart to do, take a step forward, and let Him meet you there with the power of His Holy Spirit. You are made to move ahead, so take a leap of faith, and He’ll lead you to things more joyful and fulfilling than you ever imagined! |
Prayer
Jesus, I ask you to set my life in motion and get me moving in the direction of your best for my future.
Reflection
Where in your life do you need to get moving today?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Thank you for this morning’s devotion. I have been making many excuses as to why I haven’t resumed in-person attendance at worship and I pray that tomorrow is my ‘first step to start moving’ to resume that routine. Thank you for taking the time and for the resources which are required for posting these devotions.