Reflecting Him Virtual Book Tour
Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. – 1 Corinthians 9:25
Endurance means having the necessary stamina to complete a task. It requires patience and staying power. A marathon runner might be born with the ability to run long distances, but this natural gift doesn’t mean he or she is automatically able to run twenty-six miles. It takes time to strengthen his or her muscles and lung capacity. He or she begins by running short distances and, over time, builds up endurance to run farther and farther. This slow training process gives the runner an aptitude for resilience during the race’s difficult moments.
As a Christian, the minute you accept Jesus into your life you are given the ability to develop your relationship
with Him, but it takes time and steadfastness to deepen your walk with Him. It is like training for a marathon. To stay strong throughout the race, you need to build your staying power ahead of time. Spending time in the Word and in prayer develops faith and trust. The more you work out under the master Trainer, the more refined your spiritual strength. And as a result, “Reflecting Him” becomes automatic!
Stay steady in your spiritual workouts. Train for the long distances. Realize God allows you to break a sweat sometimes during your spiritual training. This should give you a stronger faith and the necessary strength to endure the test of time. Remember, Jesus is cheering for you. Your other sisters and brothers in Christ are
cheering for you as well!
This is an excerpt from Carla’s 10-week Bible Study, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It.
Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It is a ten-week women’s Bible study. Like Jesus’ parables (which teach important lessons by creating visual pictures for the reader), Reflecting Him uses familiar objects and situations (such as pottery, the human sensory system, and the sun-earth connection) and draws comparisons that help women become aware of Jesus working in various areas of their daily lives.
Carla McDougal is the founder of Reflective Life Ministries and Share Fair, an annual conference for connecting, equipping, and encouraging women in ministry. She speaks at women’s events, retreats, and conferences in the U.S. and internationally. Carla married her high school sweetheart, Fred, and they have four children ages 16 to 23 and live in Magnolia, Texas. Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It (WinePress Publishing, 2010) is Carla’s first book, although she’s been involved in leading and teaching Bible studies for more than 20 years. Carla writes a Monday morning e-votional at her blog, Carla’s Corner. Want Carla To Lead a Lesson for Your Bible Study Group?
