READ
REFLECT
Good stamina is critical for athletes because it helps them maintain a high level of intensity throughout the workout.
Moreover, good stamina enables athletes to recover more quickly between exercises. CrossFit workouts often target different muscle groups, and athletes must recover quickly between exercises to maintain their performance level throughout the workout.
One of the best-known competitors, Rich Froning Jr., said of stamina, “Stamina is not about how much you can lift or how fast you can run, but how long you can sustain your effort.”
When you don’t have good stamina, you lose endurance, increase the chance of injury, and have slower progress in meeting goals.
But what does Scripture say about stamina? James 1:2 says, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
What is the Bible telling us?
Just as an athlete must persevere through physical and mental obstacles to achieve their goals, believers must also remain faithful and persevere through trials to receive the ultimate reward.
For example, an athlete may face obstacles such as injuries, lack of progress, or discouragement. To overcome these challenges, they must maintain a positive attitude, stay focused on their goals, and continue to work hard. Through perseverance, the athlete can eventually achieve success and earn recognition for their hard work.
Similarly, as believers, we may face trials such as temptation, persecution, or doubt. To persevere through these challenges, we must remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God’s promises and relying on His strength to help us overcome. By persevering through these trials, we can ultimately receive the reward of eternal life that God has promised us for our diligence and love.
RESPOND
1. Commit James 1:12 to memory.
2. Write down two things you can do to increase your spiritual stamina.
