"Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 1 Corinthians 9:25
“Strict training” sounds very grueling. And, quite frankly, it is whether in preparation for athletic events or in preparation for ministry to people. But let me share with you something I learned in my early years as a pastor.
I always found pastoring quite consuming of my energy and time. I was glad to give myself to the ministry, but one day I felt absolutely fatigued. Instead of trying to read the Bible or spend time in prayer or hospital visitation I decided to go with a friend on a scuba diving trip to Cozumel, Mexico. However, the fatigue almost caused me to cancel the trip, but I didn’t. When we reached the beautiful Caribbean island of Cozumel, my energy began returning. When we jumped in that water with our air tanks, masks and fins my fatigue evaporated. We spent a week scuba diving and snorkeling in the crystal clear water and saw beautiful tropical fish I never dreamed existed. It was absolute heaven on earth!
During that week I continued my private time with the Lord in his Word and private communion, but in an unregimented way. I learned that strict training doesn’t always have to be grueling! No wonder Jesus sometimes took the apostles fishing. No wonder he took his special twelve friends aside from the huge crowds. Well, I learned that strict training can be performed in non-fatiguing ways. Actually, as I began to regard time away from ministry as part of my strict training, my energy level stayed higher. My Bible reading became insightful and enjoyable. My private communion time with the Lord grew in duration and intensity. “Strict training” isn’t about wearing yourself out–it’s about disciplining yourself in ways that increase your ability to walk with God and bless his people.
God called you in to the ministry to make you successful in your relationship with himself, your family and the people you serve. Discipline yourself to rest times and times away from responsibility. As a result, your regimented ministry time will flourish and bless more and more people!
