Weightlifting, working out and Jesus
The intersection
The intersection of weightlifting and Christology - Jesus Christ and weights may seem like an unlikely pairing at first glance. However, upon further view, there are several ways in which these two seemingly seperate subjects interrelate.
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One way in which weightlifting and Christology relate is through the concept of discipline and self-control. Both weightlifting and the teachings of Jesus Christ require a high level of discipline and self-control in order to grow. In weightlifting, this might mean following a strict training regimen, practicing form, and making sacrifices in other areas of life in order to put fitness goals ahead. In this same way, following Jesus requires discipline and self-control in matters such as prayer, scripture study, and service to others to grow.
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Through strength and resilience. As weightlifting involves pushing one's body to its limits in order to achieve progress. This is similar, it teaches that following Jesus requires spiritual strength and resilience, as it often involves challenges, trials and adversity in the pursuit of righteousness. In both cases, developing strength and resilience requires perseverance and determination, as well as the ability to learn from setbacks and failures.
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Finally, weightlifting and Christology intersect through the idea of community and support. Weightlifting often involves training around friendly mentors, who provide encouragement, guidance, and accountability. Similarly, following Jesus involves being part of a community of believers who support and uplift one another in their journey of growth. In both cases, the presence of a supportive community can help individuals to achieve their goals and overcome challenges. A mentor could be an ecclesiastical leader such as a Bishop or Branch President, a family member or other loved ones. Being there for each other and "helping the new guy or gal" is similar to the Christian practice of ministering. Because however far we are in our journey, we need help and advice often.
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Overall, the intersection of weightlifting and Christology highlights the ways in which discipline, strength, and community are essential elements of both physical and spiritual growth and development. By embracing these principles, individuals can find the strength and resilience they need to overcome adversity and become their best selves.
As Stoic as this sounds, I would like to emphasize the point raised by Elder Jeffery R. Holland, that we are not purely stoic Christians, rather He (The Lord Jesus Christ, our Ebenezer, Rock [or stone] of Help) Stands by our side every step of the way — seen or not. He wants us to love the future and have a part in shaping it and embrace that it is and will be good and to guide us. [1]
To close I would like to give my remarks that often I liken weight lifting to The Gospel, especially the Principle of self-improvement through refinement, how a weightlifters pain goes after a few days or moments often but! he gets his muscles and the need to cherish and nurture to retain those blessings becomes self-evident after. Much better scholars and greater men than myself have authored the following further reading or studying material
📘 2 Nep. 2:2;
📓 Gospel Library search "Eternal perspective", See: Rafael Pino: "The Eternal Perspective of the Gospel";
💪Personal Growth;
📈Little by little.
You get there. Yes, You do. If you want to, whatever your mountain to climb is. He is there saying “You can do it, my faithful servant”. “Just a little harder and stronger”.
The only integer.
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Sources
1: BYU Devotional “Terror, Triumph, and a Wedding Feast” Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles | September 12 2004 | Audio recording and transcript link
Article published 5/01/2023 & revised 14/01 January/2023 13:27 GMT -1
#Fitness #Light The World #Workout #Weightlifting #Parable