It's Necessary!

Monday, November 28th, 2011

Today's Passage> Exodus chapter 1
Memory Verse> James 1: 2 & 3

When we first started working out, our physical trainer said to us, "I'm going to ease you into the routines. We'll take our time." It was challenging, but that was mostly because we were not accustomed to the rigor of moving so much. But gradually, we got used to the exercises. Then I noticed they began to get a little more stringent. The jumping jacks became longer, and we went from running in place to running around the block. And I also noticed something else: as the weeks went by, our trainer began to put us on more weights. When we asked why, he simply said we could handle more.

Then one week in particular, he made one statement to us the minute we walked through the door: "It's about to get worse.". And boy, was it ever! The resistance training began in earnest, and it seemed as if every muscle in our bodies hurt for the next week. But gradually, we've been able to add more resistance. And although it continues to be challenging, the joy of working towards our health, fitness and ultimate weight loss helps me keep the right perspective even through the tough workouts.

I wonder if it goes something like that with our Father. He looks at what He wants us to become, and He sees how out of shape we are in the spirit realm. So He starts out slowly but surely, adding to the variety and level of resistance that would cause us to hurt in the spiritual sense. And when He thinks we're ready to go to the next level, He says, "It's about to get worse, my child." And He allows the resistance to be applied, knowing just how much we can bear but knowing that the resistance is necessary.

The next time you're at the point where you begin to feel the pressure in a certain area, know that God has already measured the amount necessary to build the resistance needed for the next level. And when you get ready to ask, "Why me and why now?" know that humans are naturally resistant to being changed, although they desire change. So He HAS to put us in uncomfortable positions to strengthen our ability to withstand attacks from the enemy, which are sure to come because he also knows where God is taking us. What we need to ask for is the grace to give in to the process of resistance rather than resist it. If God thinks it's necessary, our only answer should be, "Yes, Lord."

Prayer: Father, I can feel the pressure mounting, but I sense that You're up to something. As long as You're there, with Your rod and Your staff, not even the valley of the shadow of death will cause me to fear. Let everything You're planning for my life come to pass. I say yes to the resistance in Jesus' Name. Amen.