Oh, is that the way it works?

Last January, I decided that instead of joining a gym, I would embark on a 90 day exercise challenge with the help of some DVD's. I proudly marched out to TJmaxx and snagged the trendiest pair of athletic pants, yoga mat and resistance bands they had, already feeling empowered because I had just shopped in the "active section" instead of seeing if they had my favorite fudge in stock (it's maple, in case you were wondering). Ah yes, with "Dr. Monique" the DVD lady leading the charge, I would most certainly be fit in no time at all.

I soon realized, however that you actually have to participate in the workouts in order for them to be effective. I began to notice that I developed a weird habit of stopping and just watching the people on the screen do the workouts and then resume my part of the program when they moved on to something a little less gruesome. Planks? Skip. Push-ups? Skip. Mountain runners? Definitely skip. Stretching? Yes.

Obviously, watching other people work, sweat, and get their heart-rate up does not mean that I am getting more fit. And really, this doesn't just apply to exercise. It applies in a lot of other areas too.

I like books. I like literature that challenges me. I have a TON of books that would probably fall under the category of "self help". The problem is, just because I own the book, or even read the book....doesn't guarantee results. The "hard work" needed to produce change and growth in my life cannot be borrowed from other authors or exercise aficionados. No, true transformation only happens in one place...the presence of God.

Don't get me wrong, books are great! I'm not liquidating my library anytime soon. I more so have a much healthier perspective that external resources cannot be the primary way I am being grown and stretched. I am far less concerned in finding the next great quote, and instead am trying to focus on asking Jesus "what do you need to teach me today?" Because really, He's the best author out there. God has written the best "self help" book of all time, and it contains all that we need to navigate the craziness of this life we are given.

This week I was reading the Psalms and came across a passage that made me laugh because it so accurately articulates my dynamic with the Lord at times (and also His kindness and patience with me)...

"I hear the Lord saying, "I will stay close to you, instructing and guiding you along the pathway for your life. I will advise you along the way and lead you forth with my eyes as your guide. So don't make it difficult; don't be stubborn when I take you where you've not been before. Don't make me tug you and pull you along. Just come with me!" (Psalm 32: 8-9)

Maybe you are in a season where you'd much prefer to sit on your yoga mat and stare at the how- to books that neatly line the shelves on your bookcase. I get it, because I've been there too. But this January, I am pressing in for something better. Something bigger. Something way more effective. Christ-led transformation.

I'm coming with you Jesus... into the unknown places I've not been before.

I trust your guidance, so tug away at this sometimes stubborn heart.

....I'll pack the exercise clothes, just in case :)