In a world that pulls us toward ease and comfort, what if the key to a longer, sharper, more satisfying life lies in embracing resistance?
Have you ever considered how the simple act of lifting weights mirrors the profound work God does in our lives? Just as resistance training sculpts our physical bodies, making them resilient against the ravages of time, so too does our active service to the Lord fortify our spirits and minds. Science reveals the remarkable ways strength training can “subtract” years from our biological age, adding vitality to our days. But Scripture shows us an even deeper truth: God designed us for work, and when we engage in His service, we tap into His eternal strength. Let’s explore this parallel, and discover how resistance—in body and soul—leads to abundant life.
The Science of Strength: Resistance Training Revitalizes the Body.
Research from leading journals, such as Cell Metabolism and Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, demonstrates that strength training isn’t just about building muscle—it’s a powerhouse for reversing the signs of aging. Starting in our 30s, we naturally lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade, a process called sarcopenia that weakens us and invites frailty. Yet, consistent resistance exercises—like squats, deadlifts, or push-ups—can halt and even reverse this decline.
The benefits extend deep into our cells. Mitochondria, the energy engines within us, degrade with age, leading to fatigue and metabolic slowdowns. Resistance training boosts mitochondrial function, enhancing energy production to youthful levels. This means that better endurance, sharper focus, and a metabolism that burns efficiently, lowering risks of diabetes and heart disease. Moreover, strength training improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and elevates “good” cholesterol, cutting all-cause mortality risk by 10-17%. In essence, creating resistance doesn’t just add years to our life; it adds life to our years, fostering a body that endures with vigor.
Spiritual Strength: God Designed Us for Work
Just as weights create resistance to build bodily strength, taking on challenges in our service to God forges resilience in our souls. Remember the “secrets of superagers” we’ve discussed? Studies on octogenarians reveal that those consistently engaged in meaningful work, like volunteering or mentoring, maintain remarkable mental acuity. Their brains show less atrophy, sharper memory, and greater emotional resilience compared to sedentary peers. Why? Because God created us for work, not idleness. Genesis 2:15, states: “Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it.” From the beginning, labor was a gift, a reflection of God’s own nature—He who “works until now.” (John 5:17)
The critical benefits of work run deeper than the physical. In Ephesians 2:10, we read, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Work isn’t optional; it’s actually built into our design. When we resist complacency and discipline ourselves to actively engage in God’s work—praying for others, discipling, service in a church, aiding the needy, and surrendering ourselves completely to God’s plan, we experience God’s multifaceted benefits: constantly renewed purpose, deeper joy, and an energy and mental sharpness that defies our years.
We must be willing to place ourselves on the front lines of God’s work. Skipping the gym weakens the body; neglecting service weakens our spiritual growth and makes us spiritually sick.
So, how do we get started?
It’s much like lifting weights. Commit. Start small. Start with 10 minutes of quiet time in the morning. Commit to a church. Commit to an area of service. Commit to regularly reading God’s Word. Commit to reach out to one person a day and do something kind. Commit to prayer. Ask God—He has the best plan.
And…then just do it.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for designing us in Your image and for Your glory. Help me to discipline myself to do Your work. Help me to constantly ask You how, when, and what You want me to do throughout the day. Help me to resist complacency and idleness, and embrace the good works You’ve planned. Renew my mind to serve with acuity and the endurance of the faithful. Help me run that negative split! In Jesus’ name, strengthen us for every task, Amen.
