“If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength!” –Proverbs 24:10

When I first started working out at home using an exercise video, parts of the workout were so difficult, I wouldn't even try them. Instead, I'd sit and watch those parts of the program and wonder if the particular muscle in use was really necessary. Over time, as I improved in other parts of the work out, I'd attempt those more challenging exercises--then give up in despair for that day. I kept trying day by day, though, and eventually made it all the way through the routine. Next, I looked for ways to make the routine more difficult. Now I’ve moved on to more challenging workouts. I'm amazed to know that these "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14) muscles have gained needed health and strength.

God made our physical muscles to grow stronger with use; He made our spiritual muscles to do the same. This strength doesn't come from ourselves, though. It develops as we learn to rely on God. I guess you could say the Holy Spirit is the strength within our spiritual muscle system.

With each trial that comes, we can choose to worry over the problem, seeking ways to solve it alone, or we can take it to God and trust Him to lead us through. Choosing to worry, struggle, or depend on our own resources will often make us falter or fall. Leaning on our Heavenly Father, however, will cause our spiritual muscles to grow.

You're my Personal Trainer, Lord. Challenge me daily to depend on You. Amen.