As I began a new exercise program not long ago, I was once again reminded of the things I am not... and one of those things is being in shape! While my thighs screamed as I did my third lunge I remembered days of old when I was strong and limber. Still while I was trying to keep up with the instructor, I heard a still voice say, "it's not about perfection, it's about direction, so slow down if you have too." Somehow that gave me the grace to take it a bit easier and to be kinder to my 'older' self. (Not that I am old, I am just not as young as I once was.) I slowed down knowing that with each day I exercise, I WILL get stronger. Once the session was over, I gave God thanks that I didn't give up and that he gave me the courage to take it one push up at time. I thanked him knowing that with his guidance and strength I can do all things including those stupid squats and lunges! Does anyone really enjoy those??
Then another day, I was reminded of a recent picture taken of me that was not at all flattering. A voice seemed to whisper, "Girl, you ain't no spring chicken." My first reaction was "Ouch, let me crawl under a rock!"
But then with a renewed sense of reason, I thought, ' Well, I'm NOT a spring chicken...I am not the girl I was at 27, 37 or even 47 for that matter, and so what if I'm not! I may not be a super model, but I'm not ready to throw in the towel just yet either. I am what I am by golly.'
I am me- a unique design of the Creator; the one he still adores, flab and all, and that is good enough!
A gentle reminder of these facts seemed to settle deep in my soul; an instant rebuttal to the initial accusation. It was accompanied by freedom to enjoy my slow but steady progress. Then it hit me that God calls himself the "Great I AM." My acceptance had now turned to excitement. . .
Yes indeed... I am WHAT I am because He is WHO He is.
I am the daughter of the Great I AM.
I am secure in his love.
I am chosen by him.
I am washed by his blood and carried in the palm of his hands.
I am blessed with his righteousness (there is none within me).
I am given grace and mercy, not because of what I am, but because of who HE IS.
I am redeemed.
I am a sinner whose sins are forgiven.
I am full of his peace.
I am strong in Him.
I am safe in his purpose.
I am seen through the eyes of my creator, adored and cherished by him.
I am precious.
I am being transformed by the renewal of my mind through HIS Word.
I am learning to be like my Father God... my Dad, who is STRONG.
I may no longer be a spring chick, but what I am is so much better.
I am HIS Child, forever young.
And you know, His strength is FAR greater than anything I could ever muster up.
In the joy of the Lord, I will find my strength.
And now I think I even feel a few more lunges coming on.
