In my college gym class, I learned that three main types of weight train- ing correspond to three different goals: using low weight for a long time produces muscular endurance; medium weight for a shorter amount of time enlarges muscles; and a lot of weight in short bursts builds muscle density. I realised that people could be strong in dramatically different ways. For example, a spindly but

sure-footed marathon runner trains just as hard as the stout body-builder, even though the two appear to be opposites at first glance.

Since taking that course I’ve become increasingly absorbed in my own physical training, but the results have surprised me. Rather than bulking up or slimming down, I instead found myself becoming more at home in the type of body I already had. In addition, I discovered myself drawing closer to God through daily spiritual practice and found a greater awareness of God’s presence.

We who belong to the body of Christ have all ‘worked out’

through our experience of trials and the pursuit of knowledge. Some of us have gained scholarly strength, while others have the endurance of faith produced by personal encounters with God. Even though some do weight training and others run marathons, we all draw strength from the one true God.

Prayer: Dear Lord, just as we thank you for our unique spiritual strengths, we ask you to help us love others for theirs. Amen