Spiritually Lazy

I went to a spinning ( cycling) class at the gym this morning. Let me just say it was the hardest work out I have had in years. I tried to keep up with Lori, the instructor, but I couldn't. The truth is, I didn't push myself like I could have. I wanted to and thought about it, but I settled for easy. At one point Lori said, "On a scale of 1-10, your effort should be at a 6." I was dying at a 6. Then I wondered how often I function in my walk with the Lord "at a 6" rather than "at a 10." When we were supposed to have our resistance at the max, I had mine in the middle simply because I knew it was too hard. As soon as it got really tough, I turned the reisitance down to make it easier.

Sometimes, I don't want to go through all that the Lord has for me because I tend to become spiritually lazy. I need to pray that He will give me grace to handle each moment His way. I need to welcome the challenging, despairing, painful, restless times as well as the times of pure bliss. By taking the easy way or the short cuts, I miss lessons, blessings, people, and opportunities the Lord intends for His good and His glory.

It's all part of growing more like Him. I know that He will push me, nudge me, comfort me, and encourage me to face all that He has for my life. Oh, that I would be so pliable in His hands, ready, eager and joyful when I only want to glide on through the days. Make me willing, Lord! Make me compliant! Give me endurance to run this race! Make me stronger in YOUR strength, not mine! 'Cuz I don't have ANY! :)
Isaiah 43:1-3
1 But now, this is what the LORD says—
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.

3 For I am the LORD, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;