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Peak Performance

by Justin Smith on December 01, 2021

Scripture

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." (Romans 5:3-5)

Observation

When I was in high school, our varsity baseball team had a coach whose specific task was strength and flexibility training. His job was to ensure we were fit and ready for each game and that we were increasing in individual strength, stamina and flexibility. He would teach us that for muscles to grow they would first need to be pushed to the point of breaking down because increased strength actually came through the breaking down and rebuilding of the muscles. Likewise, to increase in flexibility our body needed to be stretched and pulled, often to the point of discomfort, as this was the only way to reach peak performance. Strong muscles and flexibility were key in performing the basic tasks of the game like hitting, throwing and running, and beyond that, were key in quickness, agility, and handling whatever circumstances we would face on the field in battle. This came to mind this morning as I read Romans 5:3-5.

Paul says that we “glory” and find hope and joy in our sufferings. Wait...what Paul?! I don’t know about you, but I do not like hardship, trials, and suffering one bit, and you want me to enjoy them? Well, Paul wasn’t rejoicing in the suffering but the shaping, in the breaking down of the muscles so they could be built up even stronger, in the stretching so that he could be ready to perform the basic tasks of his calling, and, beyond that, be ready for whatever circumstances he would face. He didn’t dwell on the momentary afflictions but on the eternal increase…increase to his perseverance, character, hope and faith. Increase to his ability to serve and honor God. I know that’s a tough pill to swallow as hardship is just that...hard, but Paul reminds us that “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit…” It’s all based on His love and through the anointing of the Holy Spirit! It’s because of His love and the Holy Spirit that we can get through it and experience the growth.

Application

Whether you’re facing some tough times, some trials, some suffering right now or not, the fact remains that they will come, and when they do may we remember that we can glory in them because:

  1. We can rest in His perfect love.
  2.  We can find help through the Holy Spirit.
  3. We can find hope that He is using it for our good.

Prayer

Jesus, I am so amazed by how perfect Your love is and how You use even bad circumstances for Your glory and for my good. When challenging times come please remind me to rest in You, to find help in Your Holy Spirit, and to find hope in knowing that You are using it. Forgive me for the times I complained, questioned, and even strayed. May I honor You today! In Your name, Amen!

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