Treadmill Training

I'm not sure if it was vanity or the cute little beach wrap I received as a gift that made me determined to lose the flab that had quietly taken up residence around my waist. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but it was probably the "vanity" thing coupled with my opinion that beach wraps are much cuter with two-piece swimming suits. Besides, we were headed to Hawaii in a few months. Thus, my goal was set and I focused my attention on our treadmill with determined disdain.

So, with grit teeth and visions of Hawaii dancing in my daydreams, I discovered I was pathetically out of shape. Twenty minutes on the rumbling beast and I was not only physically spent, but was also bored to tears. I was in desperate need of inspiration (and a new cardio-vascular system) when I remember a CD my husband had made me of my favorite songs. That alleviated the boredom, but only time and discipline would help in the endurance and waistline departments.

Practical Christianity needs time and discipline to be truly effective. No one becomes "Super Christian" on their first day of salvation. In fact, I don't believe anyone reaches the ranks of Super Christian in this life. It just doesn't happen. We won't reach our full potential until we are face-to-face with Jesus in heaven; then it won't be about who we are, but rather basking in the presence of who He is! But, in the meantime we have things to accomplish in this world. Time and discipline will help us reach those goals.

My training paid off because I lost three inches off my waist in three months. Plus, my pathetic twenty minutes of treadmill time grew to forty minutes, half of which had become a slow jog. I was amazed at my accomplishments and realized that the same principles I'd employed for my physical well being would work in my spiritual life. I'd like to share my discoveries with you.

• I changed my uninspiring exercise environment by adding music and using a nearby window to watch birds in my backyard. Those small adjustments kept me from dreading my treadmill time. What do you need to accomplish in your spiritual life; consistent Bible study or prayer, Christian fellowship, or church attendance? Whatever it is, do something that will address the dread factor. Create a peaceful and convenient place in your house to study, pray, or spend quiet time with God. Find a Christian group with people you enjoy or who share goals similar to yours. My treadmill is not only rockin' and rollin' when I'm working out, but I'm also entertained by a variety of birds out my window. We are more apt to stick with things when there is an element of enjoyment involved. Besides, who said that Christian activities have to be drudgery? Ever hear the term "the joy of the Lord?"

• Keep on keeping on! There were many days when I didn't want any part of my treadmill training, but I had a goal to reach. It took discipline, but I dug deep and endured. Returning to the concept of an inspiring exercise environment, it helped to know I had good tunes and frolicking birds waiting for me. After a while, I noticed that my treadmill training was become somewhat of a treat; my endurance was growing and my waistline was shrinking. It's the same way with spiritual matters, only God is the treat waiting for us. I have always struggled with my prayer life. I've been diligently working on it and, although I'm not a gifted prayer warrior, I have notice an increased desire in my heart to pray and doesn't God want our hearts above all else?

• When fatigue would set in, I felt like I was running a hundred miles per hour. OK, it was really only 4.5 mph according to the treadmill control panel, but it was fast for me when I was huffing and puffing. Across from our treadmill is a cabinet with a glass door that works like a mirror to whoever is on the machine. I learned that by looking at the glass when it felt like my legs were out of control with lightning speed, the reflection would reveal the truth of how slow and controlled I really was. Yes, I felt a little silly thinking my feet were making sparks only to see that I was barely jogging but, it gave me a proper perspective. It's the same in the spiritual world. Often we feel like things are out of control. However, if we will factor God into whatever equation we are living, we will be reminded that He is in control. Practical Christianity doesn't rely on emotions or feelings, but rather the reality of God. Not that emotions are always bad, but we need something like the reflection of a glass door to help us keep perspective; the Bible is a wonderful reflector! The truth of my slow jog not only provided a good chuckle, but it showed me that my exercise was moving along just fine and that I wasn't in danger of running off the end of the treadmill or burning down the house with my blazing speed.

My treadmill training has now become a part of my lifestyle. I don't get to it as often as I'd like these days, but because of the good foundation I built this past summer, I'm still in shape and can miss a few sessions and still do my forty-minute routine with ease. The same applies to God's world. The better our foundation, the better we endure when we get off schedule. I'm not encouraging anyone to abuse their firm foundation, but life can get crazy and schedules will suffer and the benefits of good habits will carry us through the dry times.

Do you need some "time and discipline" to accomplish some goal in your life? Try the proven methods of my treadmill training and learn to use time and discipline to your advantage.

 

(c)2008 Shona Neff

Comments

[Susan]

I laughed when I read your article this morning, I just got out of the shower and said, oh this extra must go! Thanks so much for a fun and light confirmation. The other encouragement is sooooooo true!
love and hugs

[Shona Neff]

Glad you enjoyed the article. Hopefully it'll work as some inspiration too. When it comes to getting in shape OR conquering spiritual matters, we ALL need inspiration.

[Venus]

LOL this was great and yes so true. I have been looking for a stationary bike because I let my walking go by the wayside!! I want one I can plop in my living room so I can ride while I read my CM!