What a wonderful encouragement friends can be in time of need. Today my friends took me to Pro Advantage in Corpus Christi, Texas, a personal training circuit gym owned by Phil Petty, a former New Orleans Saints and New York Jets offensive lineman. He hands you a bottle of water and a towel which you will need to wipe the rivulets of sweat from your face. Nine minutes of Versa-Climber and you feel like it’s time to go home but no, it’s five more sets of three exercises each with a 150 reps of abdominal exercises in between each set. There’s an assistant trainer named DJ who leads you into the ab room and actually does every repetition with you. Quitting is not an option. Hmmmm . . .
Now that I’m 47, I’d have to admit that sometimes the motivation to do it on my own is not where it used to be. Today was exhiliratingly motivating with Phil and DJ directing and guiding right by my side.
When I was in my twenties and thirties, working out was as natural as eating and sleeping. I had a series of workouts for the gym whether it was a full body workout three days a week with cardio on the off days or a four day a week specific muscle group work out – the motivation was always present.
There were times this morning that I didn’t really feel like jumping right into the next set, but with DJ next to me hammering out another 150 reps, I felt as I did when I was 27 at the Combat Dive Supervisor’s Course! Did you know that God the Holy Spirit is with us to actually do what Phil and DJ did for me this morning? Jesus told the disciples that the Father would give them another Helper that He may be with them forever (John 14:16). This Helper is the Holy Spirit who has been sent to cheer and to guide, to coach, train, motivate, and teach just as Phil and DJ did for me to make it through that monster workout. I have italicized the word another because it is very significant. It communicates that as Jesus was to the disciples during His earthly ministry, so the Holy Spirit is to us today! Think about that for a minute or two . . . Jesus wasn’t always happy and encouraged with the 12 but He was always present to encourage, guide, motivate, and even correct. I would venture to say that sometimes Jesus was grieved with them but He never left them. Think about this as you go about your day today – as the Lord Jesus was to the disciples so the Holy Spirit is to us – He never leaves and desires to help if you will trust Him.
What an encouragement today. I am thanking God for the gift of the Holy Spirit and the gift He has given Pastor Hastings!
love it! sounds like my trainer
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Hi Henry,
I’m 62 in August and yea after the Gym the body still feels good even at my age, and I can still stand up on a surfboard, and hope I still can once winter is over here.
I also feel the same way after each bible study.
I have been helped spiritually a lot in the field of evangelizing, walk by the spirit, and being aware of those in my periphery each day, and praying that I won’t waste opportunities. – That’s my job, and its very rewarding.
Sorry to here you are leaving GABC. I am coming over to Houston and then up to Paris Tennesse in December, and intended to do a little detour and catch up with you.
Could you let me know where you might be in Dec/ Jan , and I may be able to catch up if possible.
Thank you for your hard work and dedication in preparing our lessons over the years. I have enjoyed and have grown a lot through your ministry that God has provided.
I will be praying for you your new ministry.
Your in Christ,
Ray Mackenroth, Gem, Lizzy, Kerri and Ali
We received the e-mail that you’re leaving. What will you be doing, and are you leaving the Atlanta area? Edna and I will miss you greatly, but we know God has a plan for you and GABC. See you Sunday.
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I feel so encouraged TO EXERCISE….but to also know that GOD is always with me. I am so enjoying trusting in GOD for everything. Sometimes it is just plain scary but I go back to HIS precious promises. He is taking such good care of me. I know HE will u too.
Love you-
Your sister in Christ,
Glenda
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