I have watched weight lifters in the gym, and seen how they can develop great strength. They eat right and build muscle mass by a system that uses progressive resistance. It's the constant struggle against the ever increasing weight of iron, that maintains the muscle they have and builds new muscle tissue in the process. Without the added weight, and continual increase of resistance, they would never grow stronger.
In case you missed it, this really is the same kind of process that goes on in every mature Christian. They never ask for an easier life, or the elimination of the resistance they are facing. Rather, they ask God to give them the strength and endurance needed to overcome that mountain, and walk stronger in the faith. This is why 1 Peter 4:1 says, "Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin," Suffering, resistance, and difficult trials are all opportunities to make you stronger so you will cease from sin. Don't seek God to go out of your hard places. Seek God to grow out of them!
Today's Word: Progressive resistance from the world, the flesh, and the devil is a wonderful thing, because this is what God uses to make you stronger!
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