Cheating vs. Training

Last night I had my pilates teacher all to myself…no one else showed up for the 18:00 class, so we were able to focus all on me, me, me and my little core. It was a great hour, especially because Aaron was able to explain a ton of stuff to me….and I love learning about how my muscles (or lack thereof) work.

Several times, as I worked through various exercises, Aaron provided a little extra help—supporting my back or giving me an arm to hang on to—I’d grumble and say ‘but that’s cheating…I couldn’t do it without holding on to you for dear life….or without your hand supporting my back…’ Which led us into a bit of a discussion about the difference between cheating and training…about how my body is capable of performing the exercises—‘look, with an arm to grab onto, with a hand on your back, it is possible for you to do this…you have the flexibility, the range of motion…you just don’t have the strength to do it alone yet.’

Out of the mouths of pilates teachers!

How much does that apply to my life, to my spiritual life too?

God totally, graciously, trains us to run the race…sometimes it isn’t fun, sometimes it leaves me sore, but always it leaves me stronger and more sure that I can put all my faith in his promises.

And along the way, I’m so thankful for my friends and family—like you!—who are ever ready with an arm to grab on to; who are quick to put a hand on my back. We need each other as we grow and journey on with the Lord. It’s not cheating…it’s why we have each other.

So tape up. Keep training. And don’t be afraid if you need a little help along the way too.

‘Look straight ahead,and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path.’ (Proverbs 4:25-26)