God’s Gym

Yesterday, I shared about my torn bicep and the need to serve others even when life slows us down. Today, I’m reminded that sometimes God forces us to pivot—to change the way we serve—based on our circumstances.

Right now, my physical strength is limited. I can’t pick up or move things I normally could, and it’s frustrating. That’s exactly where the enemy wants me—irritated, discouraged, and saying, “I can’t.” But God’s Word says, “I can do all things through the Messiah who gives me power” (Philippians 4:13 CJB).

The truth is, I still have legs to walk, eyes to see, a voice to encourage, and a heart to serve. My arm will heal, but in the meantime, God is teaching me to slow down, to think before I act, and to listen more closely to Him.

When frustration builds, instead of lashing out or dwelling on what I can’t do, I need to walk away, spend time with the Lord, or pour into a brother. Some people say, “When I’m mad, I go to the gym to sweat it out.” Well, I say go to God’s gym—take your frustration, your pain, your limitations—and lift them up to Him by serving others. When you do, your focus shifts from yourself to the people God’s called you to love, and the irritation fades away.

Every setback is an opportunity for God to train us for something greater. Maybe, just maybe, this is God’s way of saying, “Slow down, listen, and let Me guide your next move.”

-Rev Carlos Figueroa