Strength is developed by resistance. It seems to work that way in running. Short runs, trail runs, long runs, rest days – all seem to break down muscle and develop endurance.
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I am a runner. I like the feeling that I am in control. As in, in control of my pace, in control of when and where.
Few things are better for my soul than the anticipation of a trail run along the South Fork of the American River, the Big Sur Coast, the Cascades in Central Oregon, a cool morning run in the Great American Desert…I could go on and on.
Being human is like running; strength is developed by resistance. Where physical resistance creates muscle mass, emotional and spiritual resistance can develop emotional/spiritual strength, stamina and health.
I can choose when and where to run, but I virtually never choose when and where my emotions will be stretched. Long trail runs of the soul typically come over grueling seasons of spiritual tension, spiritual testing, or dry spells where God seems to be on the other side of the planet involved in the lives of others seemingly to the neglect of me.
And so when I read a line like “…you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” from Matthew 5:48, I awaken to the fact that he is in the process of training me in the school of spiritual trail running.
When I reflect on the training of Jesus I am convinced even more. Jesus himself was in training by the same Coach, his Father God.
…it was fitting for Jesus in bringing many sons to glory, to perfect him, the author of their salvation through suffering…Hebrews 2:10
Jesus developed strength through resistance. If I ever wonder what in the world God is doing in my life I only have to look at what God did in Jesus life. God is training me for long runs, for fierce battles, with forced marches, rocky trails and strong enemies.
- run with endurance the race set before you…Hebrews 12:1
- fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith…Hebrews 12:2
- consider Jesus so you do not grow weary and lose heart…Hebrews 12:3
- God deals with you as sons…Hebrews 12:7
- the hill country shall be yours…Joshua 17:18