Luke 9:23

"If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."

The word 'gym' is used to describe a facility equipped for sports and physical training. Have we ever given a thought as to the amount of time, energy, effort and money spent on enhancing the health and fitness levels of our bodies? Moreover, our bodies are so temporary in nature having a life span of 70 for some, 80 for others and a mere handful living up to 100 years, and yet, ever so often, we forget to concentrate on the fitness levels of our soul which needs to live on for eternity? (Ref. Jn 14:2)

Welcome to God's Gym where you and I can develop our muscles for eternal life, cut out some 'un-spiritual flab' and grow some 'spiritual abs' by exercising our faith and walking with Jesus. All we need to do is, listen to and follow the teachings of our Lord Jesus in three simple but very challenging steps (Ref Lk 9:23).

1. Deny self - forego the attractions of the world that lead us towards sin and away from God...just as in any physical gym we need to sacrifice certain pleasures by following strict time tables and diets.

2. Take up our cross daily - gladly & willingly i.e. embrace our share of difficulties and suffering day after day...just as we have to exhibit high levels of commitment in our physical gyms to notice improvements.

3. Follow Christ - His teachings of love and selfless service, even to the extent of enduring hardships, just as we obediently follow the instructions of our gym instructor.

Time to grow some spiritual muscles now!!! God bless.