Those words jump out at me! In my experience, spiritual growth is not a “spectator sport”. It is not a battle that is fought, or won, from the sidelines.

Not only is spiritual growth not a spectator sport, it is also not a casual walk down a well-defined trail. This trail is difficult and requires something important. It is called “faith” for a reason.

For me spiritual growth was a battle most often fought in the wee hours of the morning…at a small table in my living room…alone.

Make the most of every opportunity because the days are evil. 1

Alone, except for the God of The Universe who would show up and keep the enemy at bay…so we could talk and He could be heard. That table was the safest place in my world for a long time, and even now there are days when it still is.

 

Know this !

The attacks against you, the battle for your soul, will never end and that enemy is not just fighting for your soul.

The enemy is also fighting for the souls of your family, your friends, your co-workers…basically the souls of EVERYONE you come in contact with, EVERYONE that you have influence over. Ponder that.

You can do all things through Christ who gives you strength. 2

And ponder this: Perhaps the enemy works so hard to keep you down because he has insight into what you are capable of, in Christ, if you ever get up, or get back up?

Perhaps he knows the lives you can touch and the hearts you can reach. So it’s not only the prospect of losing you that drives the enemy, but losing so many more…that makes your battle so fierce!

Never underestimate what God can do in your life and through your life. Fight the good fight of faith. 3

“Available” is all He needs….

Get In The Boat. Do Your Part.

From Nose to Toes!

 

Shane /#16

 

Shane Hale is a redeemed & re-purposed professional baseball player and former corporate sales executive. Shane, his wife Michelle, and their three sons live in Mobile, Alabama, USA, where he works as a Realtor. While seeking God’s plan for his life in the summer of 2014, God told Shane to start writing. Today he shares his faith to encourage and inspire others to seek His plan for their lives as well. Check out his blog at http://www.the1sixproject.com .

Footnotes : (1) Read Ephesians 5:16. (2) Read Philippians 4:13. (2) Read 1 Timothy 6:12a.

Pictures : Banner Shot: Photo by Shane Hale, a page from 2019 Walking in Grace Daily Devotional (Guideposts), devotional shown by Amy Eddings; 1st Photo: Shane Hale.