Stiff Leg

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.

1 Corinthians 9:24-25a

I have terrible posture. I like to sit at my desk in all sorts of odd ways. Sometimes I’ll sit on one leg…or the other…or both. Sometimes I’ll bring one foot up on the chair with my knee near chin level. Sometimes I put one or both feet on my desk (isn’t this a great company to work at?). When my co-workers stop by, they often comment that they always see me sitting funny. However, I can’t stay in one “odd” position too long. When I do, my leg goes to sleep. Then, I try to get up to walk down the hall, but I can’t! Sometimes, I can barely stand. I have to stretch it out and let circulation come back first.

A spiritual journey can be a lot like this too. Just like if I don’t use my leg frequently or keep it in a healthy position, it gets stiff, so it is with our walks with God. We can’t expect to run when we’ve been idling, even if just for a little bit of time. We have to constantly be moving with God and keeping in a good position. When we get out of a good position and stay for any length of time, it’s going to feel a little odd getting back (you know, that tingling feeling!). Even with the odd feeling, the more I move my leg, the faster circulation comes back! I chose the verse above because it reminds us to stay in shape, and that doing so requires constant “strict” training. We can’t stay idle for any length of time, but must be constantly moving in the Spirit.

Thankfully, God gives us many ways to keep from getting spiritually stiff. We can read His Word, pray to him and fellowship with others. We can also serve those around us and demonstrate Jesus’ love in practical ways. What other ways can you think of?

*Lord Jesus, thank you for being our provider. Thank you for giving us everything we need to live! Please help us to keep moving with Holy Spirit and not be idle. When we do idle, help us to get up and move spiritually, pressing through any opposition. We want to serve you in all we do! In Jesus’ Name. Amen!

Idling creates spiritual stiffness.