In the post Rise Up several parables are told by Jesus to inspire us to be productive. Like the man who still had hope in the unproductive fig tree, we can go the extra mile to work on the things in our life that are unproductive and need a little extra care.

We may not feel good at times but other times, we may feel lonely or we may feel inferior. Sometimes, we may just be physically worn out but these are the things that create resistance and ultimately make us stronger. Like the resistance when lifting weights to build our physical muscle, we can also build up our spiritual muscle.

Examples include the resistance of water as we swim laps to burn those extra calories or up a hill to the very top. Without resistance, the wings of a plane can’t produce lift to fly through the air. Without resistance to fear, there is no courage. Next time your day is filled with some resistance, smile at it, say thank You God, and keep going.

Remember, persistence like a stream of water eventually cuts into a rock and if we remain persistent at focusing on the possibilities God gives, we can cut into and go through any obstacle in our way. This day with God, ask that He keeps making you stronger and receive inspiration from this video: Keep Making Me – Sidewalk Prophets.

Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. – Romans 5:3

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