Last week my trainer challenged the fitness camp to
join her in doing 500 crunches a day for seven days. At the moment I heard the challenge something went off in me
that said, “Take the challenge!”
I joined with my fellow campers in doing 200 crunches that day and later
completed 300 crunches, totaling 500 crunches before going to bed. When I woke the next morning, I was
still hearing, “Take the Challenge”.
All that day I was hearing, “Take the challenge.” What is it about this
phrase that is so intriguing to me?
The word “challenge” is defined as a call or summons to
engage in any contest as of skill or strength. A challenge is something that by it’s nature or character
serves as a call to battle, contest or special effort. When something is being
challenged it serves to prove the genuineness, strength or authenticity of the
thing that is being challenged.
Spiritually when I think of taking a challenge I am reminded
of Jesus and how he challenged people.
Jesus would often challenge people to go beyond the status quo, to do
something that would go against the prevailing thought or custom of the day, or
go beyond the limitations that have been set for them.
The challenges Jesus gave were designed to increase the
individual’s character, physical ability or spiritual integrity. Jesus challenged the rich young ruler
to sell all that he had and give to the poor (Mark 10). He challenged the man at the pool of
Bethsaida to pick up his bed and walk (John 5). When Jesus spoke to the woman at the well of Samaria he
challenged her to life of authentic worship (John 4). In each case, a challenge came to bring out the best life
that these men and woman could live.
I’m on the 6th day of doing 500 crunches a day and it’s not been easy. But with a little special effort I believe I can make it one more day. Whether your challenge is work related, relational, spiritual, or physical it is designed to make you better. Remember a challenge is a battle, contest, summons an upward call that builds your skills, increases your strength and improves your ability.
I’m on the 6th day of doing 500 crunches a day and it’s not been easy. But with a little special effort I believe I can make it one more day. Whether your challenge is work related, relational, spiritual, or physical it is designed to make you better. Remember a challenge is a battle, contest, summons an upward call that builds your skills, increases your strength and improves your ability.
Look whatever challenge you are facing this week head on and “Take the Challenge!”
Have a blessed week.....
Dr. Toni
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