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We know how good it feels to
get up and stretch after sitting for a long time. It’s good for our bodies to
stretch. It makes us pliable, and that’s what God wants us to be when it comes
to His Word and presence. So let’s remember to stretch to the heights with Him
every day.
Eternal Perspectives by Sally Bair
Stretching
A few of us meet twice weekly
to stretch our muscles using a DVD program to guide us. Some of the exercises
are difficult, but we all agree physical exercises are beneficial. We feel more
energized, can move our joints and muscles easier and become stronger. We’re no
match for the squirrels outside my window, however, who perform exquisite
acrobats while successfully trying to reach the bird seed in a squirrel-proof
bird feeder. Not that it matters. Like them, we benefit with improved
flexibility and balance, less arthritic pain and prevention of injury.
I once missed almost two
weeks’ worth of stretching exercises because I went on a trip. When I returned,
my body had lost elasticity and I had to start over. I learned the importance
of staying with the program.
Stretching is also beneficial
for the soul, which includes our mind and will. From infancy, we’re taught to
think for ourselves. When we aren’t given the opportunity, we can become
parrots of someone else’s beliefs and actions, which deprives us of becoming
our unique selves. Or we might grow up to be “pansies,” an old-fashioned term
meaning those who are timid or unassertive, without the backbone to make
personal decisions. We stretch our souls when we choose to replace our old,
unproductive or harmful ideas and lifestyles with new, healthy ones.
God allows our spirits to be
stretched, too. Our faith is like a muscle that needs to be stretched in order
to grow stronger. Each obstacle we face can become a challenge when we view it
as such. Throughout the world, millions of people are being ignored, taunted,
ostracized or persecuted for their faith in God. Each test they face with
perseverance and determination helps their faith grows stronger. “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall
into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”
(James 1:2)
When we find ourselves
without spiritual tests and trials, we can lose spiritual flexibility. Perhaps because
of busyness or stress, we take a mental and spiritual vacation for a while,
which results in losing ground. Forgoing our daily quiet times with God causes
us to get out of shape spiritually. Not a good place to be.
When we maintain a program of
physical fitness and the soul-stretching program of mental, emotional and
relational growth, we benefit. When we choose to discipline ourselves in
growing in and with Christ, we profit spiritually. So do those around us. And
so does the Lord, by our faithfulness.
Lord, thank You for stretching our faith. We want
others to know You as we know You. Strengthen our faith for Your glory. In
Jesus’ name, amen.
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