Training Plans

As many of you know, I’m pretty regular in maintaining an exercise routine.  I’m usually in the gym or running—or something—at least five days per week. At times, however, I have found myself trying to figure out the best and most efficient routine for both building muscle and increasing cardio.  That’s where having a training plan has been a big help. 

This past winter, I downloaded an app with a weight training plan. And, it seems to be working (I think!). Oh, I’ll never be “jacked,” but following a plan is helping me develop a bit more muscle mass. And most recently, I’ve been looking at training plans for running a half marathon—a goal I’ve set for myself. After all, I know I can’t go from running a 5K to a half marathon overnight. It’s going to take time to prepare my body to run the 13.1 miles required. But that’s where having a training plan comes into play. 

The Apostle Paul understood this well. Thus he wrote, “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.” (1 Corinthians 9:25 - NIV)  He was likening the training of a competitive athlete to that which is needed for the believer to live out a life of faith. He goes on to say, “They (those involved in physical training) do it to get a crown that will not last, but we (followers of Jesus) do it to get a crown that will last forever.” Later on, Paul writes to Timothy, “…train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:7-8 – NIV) And Jude writes of “building yourself up in your most holy faith”? (Jude 1:20)

God has a great reward ahead for those who will run this race of faith all the way to the end: eternal life with Jesus our Savior! However, to get there is going to take perseverance, fortitude, and strength—running through all the obstacles that life will throw our way. That’s where the training comes into play. Thus, God has given to us the Scriptures to train us in righteousness. (1 Timothy 3:16) He invites us into regular times of prayer that we might grow in our relationship with him. And, he uses the difficulties of life to train us, refine us, strengthen us, and build us up. (Hebrews 12:11)  Ultimately, however, it’s up to us to put to use the training plan. 

So let me ask you, how’s your training been going? Have you been doing your part to build yourself up in your faith? Have you been doing what you need to do that you might run your race all the way to the end? The training may not always be fun, but in the end it will be well worth it. 

Have a great day and keep on training! 

- Pastor Tim Harris