I used to participate in a work-out program that the leader called “boot camp.” It could be strenuous, but it was only as hard as I made it: I was free to select a heavy weight or a light weight for each exercise; I could try hard or I could be more casual about it; I could make sure to be ready for the next exercise or I could move slowly, start late, and end early….

For the most part I worked hard. When I didn’t, the instructor was in my ear telling me I could lift a heavier weight or dig deeper or go harder. And everyone else in the class seemed to be motivated to work hard which spurred me on as well, either out of pride or embarrassment.

Then we moved away. At first I was relieved to be free of the routine of that twice weekly class. I figured I could work out doing the same things at the gym in my apartment building without the stress or expense.

But that didn’t happen. Although I wanted to stay fit, it was too easy to procrastinate. And when I did work out, I didn’t push myself the same way I would in a group.

I ended up losing steam and losing muscle. And shortly after our move, I hurt my knee by just stepping off a curb. I blame my lack of fitness. And my inability to motivate myself to work out effectively.

“Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens another.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭CSB‬‬

The way I need other people to stay in shape physically, I need other people to stay in shape mentally, emotionally, and spiritually too. That is one reason God created the church. He knows I do better with other people who love me, encourage me, push me, and keep me accountable. In all things. That is what the church is supposed to be. A group of people who gather to improve each others’ spiritual health.

Dear God,

Thank you for the people you have placed in my life over the years who have helped me become closer to you. They have encouraged me in my walk with you and helped me find my way back to you when I wandered away. Teach me how to be this kind of encourager for people in my life who need that.