“[F]or it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” — Philippians 2:13
Working In is Greater Than Working Out
As I wrapped up my morning devotions, I glanced at the clock and realized it was 4:47 a.m., and I planned to be at the gym at 5. As I hurriedly closed my concordance and Bible, the Holy Spirit asked, “Are you finished?” I responded, “Yes” — not with my mouth but with my actions of getting dressed and rushing out the door.
I scurried to the gym, dropped my wallet and cell phone into the console of my car and headed inside. I had a great workout, grabbed my bag, proceeded outside to head to work and shower — and my car was gone. I realized it was towed when I saw the “No Parking 6 a.m. – 9 a.m.” sign about 10 feet in front of where I parked. How did I not see the sign? Was I in that much of a rush? What do I do now with no cell phone or wallet?
This is symbolic of what happens in our lives when we prioritize working out over what God is working in us to accomplish His will. God wants to use our hands, heads and hearts to love His people, but we must slow down and take the time to hear how, when and where He desires to do this. First John 4:12-13 says, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us. This is how we know that we live in Him and He in us: He has given us of His Spirit.”
In our time with God, the Holy Spirit teaches, guides and reminds us of God’s will and how God desires to use us for the benefit of others. “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26). “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on His own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come” (John 16:13).
God moved on the heart of the gym attendant to allow me to use their phone to call my coworker, who picked me up and assisted me with retrieving my car.
Where does working out fall on your list of priorities? How does it rank among the responsibilities of your life and demands on your time? What does it reflect about your perception or belief regarding the purpose and value of your life? As we allow God to work His will in us, we become fit for His use — the greatest workout we will ever experience.
— Mona Lipsey
If you would like to submit a reader devotional, please email all submissions to
devotionals@sportsspectrum.com.
