‘Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.’ 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NASB)
It is that time of year when I get focused and discipline in my fitness regimen. Elk season is quickly approaching and there’s always a great deal of physical prep involved. The goal is to improve overall functional strength, endurance and stamina. One can never do too much, and I seldom even come close to doing enough. The last couple years it has been rather difficult for me to maintain the consistency to properly prepare. Most workouts were a fairly daunting struggle, and the improvements were slow at best. Consequently, my time in the mountains was a struggle, as well.
This year is a different story. Back in February, as soon as I was fit for it, I began re-incorporating fitness into my day to day routine. I wanted to restore what had been lost to me for the past few years, with my eyes affixed firmly on the far off peaks of the Rockie Mountains. It’s no secret, this annual adventure is generally the highlight of my year. In my new state of restored health, I feel tremendous and am trying to make full use of it and have pushed myself harder this year than I have in at least a decade. I’m training my body for the race that is elk hunting and the perishable crown that sits upon its head.
I know there’s a number of you reading this that have a dedicated fitness routine and training schedule. Be it for hunting like, me, sports, looking good, general health, improved quality of life, etc something drives you and motivates you. You are consistent. You plan and execute, because you know that’s the best way to achieve the results you are after. Some of you may even border on the brink of obsession. It doesn’t have to be just fitness, either. Is there anything that you are dedicated to developing through consistent effort? Ponder that for a moment. Now… I have a question for you. Are you like that when it comes to your relationship with Jesus Christ? Are you consistent? Do you plan and execute? Do you border on obsession? Are you training to win or merely to run along with the crowd? Seriously evaluate how you approach your time in pursuit of the Lord. How does it compare to other pursuits you are passionate about? If it doesn’t exceed the standard you set in other arenas of your life, it’s time to make some changes. Have a blessed weekend.
