~Boxing~

I've recently taken an interest in boxing! It will be a worthwhile challenge I have no doubt. I have a book explaining EVERYthing I need to know about boxing for women...the last few chapters are the workouts (4 weeks). I don't need much equipment...just a jump rope...and I don't HAVE to go to a gym for "real" boxing if I don't want to.

As I was reading through the book, "The Gleason's Gym total body boxing workout for women", I couldn't help but think of my spiritual life. I smiled as I remembered the old song, "The Champion" sung by Carman...the video was of satan and Jesus boxing" We, as Christians, all "box with the devil. We are presented with daily challenges (temptations) and struggles....as well as opportunities. In the book there is a chapter entitled, "Mental Preparation: Are You Ready?" I never really liked boxing as I was growing up watching ALL other sports with my dad, so I never really thought about how much mental preparation boxing took.

In this second chapter of the book, the authors pose questions to the boxer-wanna-be. I will also pose questions to the Christian lady:

1. How badly do you want to see results? Muhammad Ali states, "...Champions are made from a something they have deep inside them" Christian, how badly do you want to see results of your knowing Jesus? Is your deep desire to see others know Jesus also and to grow in Him? Jesus needs to be DEEP inside your heart!

2. Do you have the courage to take the risks? "Making a change is scary because it means you're opening yourself up to the possibility of success or failure. Accept that you WILL make mistakes during your journey of becoming a boxer." Christian, are you courageous for Jesus? You will need to decide whether or not you want to go along with friends and things they do and how they talk (among other things). Know that you WILL make mistakes. Jesus is right there to forgive you and help you move on.

3. Are you dedicated to making changes? "If you just go through the motions...you're not going to get anywhere." You need to choose to BE different! Live to see results for Jesus! Take ACTION!

4. Do you trust your trainer? "The last seconds of a match are just as challenging as the first seconds of a match...you have to learn to go the distance." Do you trust Jesus? ALL the way with your life? You will need to go the distance with Him. Things will NOT get easier...they may in fact become more difficult.

5. Are you ready to step into the ring and willing to take punches? Are you ready to stand firm for Jesus in ALL circumstances...whatever may come up...a co-worker gossiping about another, flirtatious advances of a "friend", speaking out for Jesus boldly when issues and concerns arise...confronting someone in love? "...getting hit should precipitate your counter punch" Be ready in all circumstances to jab for Jesus!

I encourage you to read Romans 12:1-8 DAILY and pray it for your life!

All quotes were from "The Gleason Gym total body boxing workout for women" and the small "s" and "d" for satan and devil were intended:)