I am continuing my 'Conquer Doubt with your Mouth' plan by studying bible scriptures about how God expects us to use our mouths. What revelations and blessing I am getting from this study!
Here is my focus scripture for today:
"The words of a man's mouth are deep waters; The wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook (Proverbs 18:4)."
Last night at bible study, we had another preacher from South Africa speak on the subject "Overcoming the Storms of Life." What wisdom he shared! He said, "The learning of facts accumulates knowledge - but the application of facts is acquiring wisdom."
As I am continually learning, the difference is in living the Word, not just hearing it. Speaking and living the Word makes it alive and active instead of just passive words on a page. God's word cannot impart wisdom to you unless you apply it to your life. We are called to be "wise and understanding people" (see Deuteronomy 4:6). That is what sets the Christian nation apart from all others.
This morning, I was sweaty and feeling good as I checked off another workout done on my calendar. And I realized something I never realized before: Each session is a lesson on how to endure storms.
My workouts are challenging because I have learned that when I workout with great intensity, I don't have to workout as often or as long. Working harder saves me time. Anyway, these are the lessons I learn with every workout on how to endure storms:
1. Breathe through it. I make sure that my breath is steady and even, but when I lift a challenging weight, I exhale long and slow during the effort. That skill comes in handy when I am dealing with a frustrating situation or person.
2. Stay focused. I focus on the rewards I am seeking. My perspective is that my body does not belong to me. It is God's temple. He gave it to me to use as a resource to conduct His business on this earth. To maximize my effectiveness, I aim to be strong, healthy, energetic and vibrant. I once read a fitness book in which the author said, "Physical strength enhances emotional strength." I do believe that is true to a degree because I think regular exercise makes me more emotionally stable. Since I only have one life to live on this Earth, I am choosing to live fit.
3. It will end. Yes, my workouts are tough. But they only last 20 - 40 minutes. I can endure, knowing that the hard part will be over soon. I once heard a pastor say "Storms come to pass, not to last." So true! The devil tries to trick us into thinking that just because you may be going through a tough time now, it will always be so. Such a lie!
Jesus said "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)"
That is a wonderful promise and a Rock we can hold on to through any storm. I hope that you will take a look at the challenges in your life and ask, what knowledge am I gaining through this and most importantly, how can I apply it?
You will grow in understanding and wisdom and God will be glorified!
Be healed, in Jesus' Name!