And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:4
Consistency is something I struggle with. Except reading the Bible daily, I have a hard time doing things consistently. I know that consistency is what it takes to develop healthy habits, whether it's an exercise routine, a eating plan even taking medications. Yet, the Bible says steadfastness is needed in my life when I face trials.
It is easy to want to put this in just the spiritual realm, but that is futile because it is my whole life I am to give God. I'm called to love the Lord with all my heart which is physical, soul which is my emotion in mind, and spirit which is eternal. Anything can be a trial. My weight is a trial, if I'm not healthy and active, how can I carry out what God has called me to do? If I'm eating junk that is not honoring the Temple of Holy Spirit. Taking medication is also something I do to help my health. God gave doctors wisdom to help us maintain his temple.
Why do I struggle with consistency? I try to compartmentalize my life, calling some things natural and some things spiritual despite the fact that it all is spiritual. If I can keep up with the spiritual disciplines and not be religious in doing so, that might be a good tool to use for the rest of my life.
I remember one of my spiritual mentors saying that I should consider "living a fasted life". I just came off a 40 day fast and told her my struggle. When I'm called to fast that discipline is there. When I'm not fasting, my healthy eating and portion control go out the window more often than not. As I sit here writing that thought of sacrificing the flesh daily shows steadfastness. I don't know why it's taken me years to see it in that light. I have the choice to sacrifice my flesh and live in that moment for God. I have the ability to turn every moment into a holy moment.
Lord, I've struggled with steadfastness in my life but I realized I've allowed my exercise to override my ability to surrender every moment to You. Help me to see every natural thing in the context of spiritual and eternity. To keep this in the forefront of my mind. In Jesus name, Amen.
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