Jimbo's Jots

“Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” – Paul, 1 Corinthians 9:25.

Until recently, I’ve always considered myself a fairly active. Before moving into ministry at Plymouth, I spent 10 years at Rochester College in various positions. At RC, I had access to a gym where for many years, a group of guys would meet for lunch and play basketball. Additionally, keeping up with college students in intramural sports.

I then moved to Plymouth to become a youth minister. Again keeping up with teenagers was something that I enjoyed doing. I felt young and energetic.

Several years ago, I joined a local gym establishment. I was a member at the “big purple gym” (name given by one of the church elders). I attended for a while getting several workouts each week in. Even met with a trainer, who put me on a workout plan to meet my goals.

Fast forward to late last year . . . after not gracing the premises of the purple castle, I decided I need a change. For the past three months, I have been a member at a new gym. I even paid to meet with a trainer once a week who would push me and test me to keep me working on my goals to a healthier me.

As I was doing my routine, I had another of Paul’s writings going through my head:

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press ontoward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)

Here is what I’m learning:

• I have to forget what I had done before – any failures I have had in the past are just that. They don’t affect what I can do today or tomorrow.
• I press on – somedays are harder to push myself to do the weight training; other days are easier. Either way, I’m trying to make this work
• I have someone to lean on – my trainer is great! He pushes me and checks on me even though I don’t meet him any more.

When it comes to growing spiritually, I am learning the same principles apply.

• I have to forget what I had done before – I remember that God’s love and mercy are new every morning.
• I press on – somedays are harder to study and pray; other days are easier. Taking time each day is important for my growth.
• I have someone to lean on – My God is great!! He pushes me and checks on me – the difference is I need him all of the time.

So press on!

Be blessed and be a blessing!!