It's not been a typical 3 years, nope it's been some of the most challenging time I have ever had in full time ministry. I got to thinking, is there any time in any one's life that is "typical" anymore? Would it be a good idea to presume that life is never quite normal and that arriving there is more the exception than the rule? I think so. So maybe a better thing to do is determine how we are going to respond, and what we are going to learn, and how these challenges are going to make us better and those around us. "Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things." I Cor. 9:24.
We are measured most accurately under pressure. What gets squeezed out is most us. Like it or not. Sports and more specifically the discipline of wrestling taught me so much. Daily disciplines of how much to eat, what to eat, when I could, showing up at practice, the importance of practicing against guys who were better than I was rather than sparring against guys I knew I could beat. Then there was keeping up with my studies on top of not eating, competing at a high level while not eating,etc. I would like to think I always passed the test. I did not. Sometimes I just didn't have it in me. I would give in and eat. When I would get hurt, but not enough to stop me from practicing, I took a little more time off than the injury warranted. I had some proud moments and not so proud ones. But one thing is for certain - I couldn't fake it. Everyday in practice or out there on a mat it was just me and my opponent. I would be found out, good or bad.
It's also mostly true in life. You might be able to fake others out but why short-change yourself and have to face regret? Use the hard times and tests to find out what you are made of. You are better than you think you are. I dare you to see for yourself.
