I recently picked my strength training habits back up. The driving force of returning to this practice was a whisper deep in my bones that said, “I want to feel strong again.”

So, I’m beginning again. 

I’ve started at square one, focusing on the basics and good form. 

The other day I found myself holding a plank, trembling and shaking much sooner than I’d like to admit. I channeled my attention into my breath, noticing the air going in and out, in and out. I huffed and puffed, and the same voice within me cried out again, “I want to feel strong!”

And wouldn’t you know it, in the midst of my sweaty, shaky hands holding an imperfect plank, the Holy Spirit spoke back to me.

“To feel strong, you have to be strong.”

Days later, I’m still processing these words, turning them over in my mind as if examining a precious stone. That message changed everything in the moment, and it continues to shape my perspective.

We don’t just wake up one day and find ourselves to be as brave, courageous, or strong as we want to be. It’s only through the refining fire and the face of opposition, adversity, and fear that we are actually able to become strong. 

We must be strong before we feel strong. We must act before we seem ready. 

The feelings will follow. But the practice of digging in when the going gets tough is what truly makes us strong—not waiting for the feelings to show up.

In the face of fear, pain, and uncertainty—from a core exercise, a work dilemma, or a low mental health day—I’m going to keep pressing in, and I hope you’ll join me. This is where the good stuff happens. This is where we become strong. 🤍

In love,
AR

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