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Q. Why do mountain trails that look climbable on a map turns out to be a tower of torture?

A. If you find yourself panting and wailing your way up a steep incline on a trail, you probably say the same thing I say: "When I get back to civilization, I'm going to run more to stay in better shape! This pain won't happen next time!" Unfortunately good intentions—like New Year's resolutions—usually disappear into a deep ravine. We know it's important to get the ol' heart rate up a few times a week, but it's so hard to leave our normal tasks and set aside the time to make ourselves available for physical growth. The problem is that we usually don't have to be in great shape to do our daily tasks—but we're going to need that conditioning when we get to the mountains. The next time you consider skipping your physical training, think mountains.

It's the same story for spiritual conditioning, right?

You bet. Jesus warned (in Luke 9:23) that anyone who wants to follow Him has to shoulder his cross daily. We may go through an ordinary day without running into difficult temptations or faith-testing trials. But we never know when hard times are on their way. Life's ups and downs require that we "work out" and strengthen our faith on a daily basis. If we're not separating ourselves daily from the world for conditioning in Christ, then when the trail turns steep, we'll find our ability to keep pace compromised. The next time you consider skipping your spiritual training, think mountains.

Nathan Chapman, a musician, is the author of With God on the Hiking Trail.

Adapted from With God on the Hiking Trail (Harvest House, 2002) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Sovereign Lord, keep me from envying the accomplishments of others. Instead, make me grateful for and content with the gifts You've entrusted to me.

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