music

The other day I was in the gym. I normally have my iPod going with a mix of upbeat songs, all ranging from 80's hair metal to country to pop to contemporary Christian music. For some reason, I decided to go with a different mix, my "worship" mix.

I started my workout on the elliptical and was really enjoying the songs. I continued onto the free weights and started lifting. Now, when I lift and work out - I tend to sing along, not loudly, but I do mouth the words. I start my workout with squats. I began my lift and was singing along. I finished my first set and rested the normal 30 seconds in between. About this time, one of my favorite hymns started going in my ears, "Holy, Holy, Holy."

I found myself starting my next set and as I did, I was unable to sing along. I just listened. As I listened, I found myself being invigorated and strengthened. It was such a cool feeling that is so unexplainable.

I was having an intense week and it was stressful, and so working out was a way that I was relieving my stress. I found as I just listened, I was finding comfort and rest in the Only One who could provide it.

On another note, I found it ironic that as I was strengthening my body, He was strengthening my soul. He was reminding me who was in control and putting me in a place to hear Him profoundly. It is wonderful to hear God speaking! I love hearing His voice and I long for Him to speak more.

Well, if I must continue, I will then! After the workout, I had a busy weekend with work and it was good - but God started stirring in my heart about some issues. As He was doing that, He started peeling away some sin that I had kept. I have never known myself to be a self-righteous person, and yet that is what He is showing me. It stinks to see that but it is what He is showing me. And as I read through Proverbs, I find myself convicted and really seeing myself for the fool I am.

There is sin that He wants to work on in this heart and so, I trust it to Him. I leave it before Him to let Him do a work. I can't say that sanctification is always fun, especially in moments like this, but I know it is worth it.

I came to this realization after a few things that I have been quick to say recently that I have immediately regretted. I am quick to judge people and situations - and that dishonors God. My role as His child is to love and offer forgiveness so abundantly as He has done for me. And I fail at this so profoundly.

I have repented, but see that God wants to change my heart in these moments. Please pray for me that I would be diligent to follow after Him, fix my eyes on Him, and trust Him as my complete refuge.

Thanks for reading my ramblings. I hope you are blessed this day!

Brandon