“Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, ‘I am holy; you be holy.’” (1 Peter 1:13 MSG)
I enjoy the structure and discipline of marathon training. During each training season, I am extremely focused on my running goals, injury prevention, and proper nutrition. I keep track of my daily, weekly, and monthly mileage. I run long distances, speed drills, and hill repeats. I do cross-training exercises and stretches. I ramp up intensity gradually so as to prevent injury. I monitor my diet, avoiding foods that may slow me down. All of this preparation happens before the actual race day arrives.
I have learned to apply the same level of focus and discipline in preparing for seasons of spiritual battles. This was not always the case. There was a time when I would be diligent in prayer only when I was in trouble. When things in my life settled down, I would go back to my old lackadaisical habits. This resulted in spiritual flabbiness that left me unprepared for sudden attacks. Now, I know better. I try to remain in a constant state of alertness. I am vigilant in prayer. I allow God to shape my life, yielding to His discipline. He prepares me for battle with energy and holiness.
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