FITNESS
07th Nov 2018
We have just returned from Australia where we had a great time with our family. One thing we observed was this present generation have an impressive fitness regime. One granddaughter had a Garmin watch for her birthday, which monitors her heart rate and counts the number of steps each day. We watched our grandson do his daily exercise routine, and when we got home another granddaughter wanted weights for her birthday for her body strengthening plan. It is good to see their energy and commitment to live healthily.
I have been reading Jude’s letter, and find him seeking to encourage the new believers to resist things that would undermine their faith and make sure they have a good spiritual fitness regime.
Verse 20 in The Message gives us 4 key things that are vital for keeping us spiritually fit. First, “Carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith..” We need to feed our faith on a daily basis which will come from, among other things, a good diet of the Word of God. In Romans 10:17 it says, “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.”
Secondly, “Pray in the Holy Spirit.” Prayer keeps us in vital contact with the living God. 1 Corinthians 14:4 says, “He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself.” Don’t neglect the gift of speaking/praying in tongues, it builds you up and opens a channel where God can use you to pray into challenging situations.
Thirdly, “Stay right in the centre of God’s love” Knowing that you are unconditionally loved by God and living in strong and loving relationship to others is vital. In 1 John 4:19 it says, “We love because he first loved us.” also, “Love covers over a multitude of sins.” This will keep you in a place of peace and generosity.
Finally, “Keep your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ.” Receive God’s mercy every day, He is always forgiving and gracious.
Build yourself a good spiritual fitness plan!
by Charles Sibthorpe
