12/18/25 RESETTING YOUR "ROUTINE"

12/18/25 RESETTING YOUR "ROUTINE"

I had to adjust my workout schedule recently. (This is an illustration of something much greater than physical training).

I work to maintain and improve what good health I have. (Of course, the Biblical principle is applicable [we do the planting, but God gives the increase]).

Almost a month ago I reached a personal bench press goal of 175#. This was a milestone in my health recovery and an encouragement for my future well-being.

However, I am 78 years old, and it takes me longer to recover after a strenuous workout. My body knows this, but my mind still thinks I am 37. After I maxed out at 175#, I was weaker and actually had congestion problems; therefore, it took me two weeks before I resumed my weight routine. I actually questioned if I would be able to recover and progress in my health and strength.

As a result, I rethought my schedule and sets and reps. Not only do I not "bounce back" as quickly as before, I also lose more ground when I have injuries or setbacks. I resumed my exercise routine after a couple of weeks of recuperation. I settled for a slower and lower level, but I soon found out I was on a comeback. However, it is important to recognize legitimate limitations and set reasonable goals. With God's calling comes God's enabling.

I realize that my opportunities are not the same as they were earlier in my life. As the song says, "That was yesterday, and yesterday's gone." Though former opportunities may be unattainable now, God has new directives for present opportunities. I can't recover those times, or lost opportunities, but I can "redeem the time" (start making good use of what time I have left).

I can't lift what I would have been able to lift; I can't reach the people that I could have reached, therefore, I must adjust to my new reality. I can't allow my missed opportunities to rob me of my present and future opportunities. Though I may not have the same abilities I use to have, I now have assets that I did not have in the past. Also, now I can teach, direct, instruct and warn younger people about the pitfalls and the possibilities they face.

I encourage everyone and especially young people, be all you can for Jesus, do all you can for Jesus and give yourself fully to pursuing all of God's will for your life, for the rest of your life. By doing this you will avoid many disasters, heartaches, regrets. We can only live one moment at a time, choose to live your life in the Spirit and your life will count for God's glory, forever.