It was a deal I couldn't pass up! I walked away feeling like I just ripped off the guy. He had sold me a gym membership for a fraction of the actual fee. I wondered how this guy could possibly stay in business. He was practically giving memberships away. On my first day of "working out," I was surprised that the gym wasn't packed with people.
Fast forward 8 months and I finally understood the business model. I had gone to the gym barely a handful of times, the owner banking on my failure. I took advantage of the "deal," but never realized the benefit of my plan.
Isn't this how so many of us approach a loving God–who has freely given us His grace and has invited us into a life-giving relationship with eternal benefits? Our intentions may be good, that we want to experience something different than what life is delivering. We start off strong only to realize we're not taking advantage of all that God has for us as we walk "with" Him.
God is not "banking on my failure." God desires that we would experience the joy and peace of following His plan. The book of James acts like a trainer who shows the way to get spiritually healthy and isn't afraid to get in our face at times when we need a little push to stay on track.
In James 4:11-17, he takes us there again showing us practical ways to stay in spiritual shape. I encourage you to come with us and let's workout together in the community of church. I know it sounds a little cheesy, but it's good truth and a great deal.
