STRENGTHENING OUR CORE

We live at a time when tensions and fear run high. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) classifies the coronavirus as pandemic. In other words, the CDC believes this virus has spread across continents and possibly throughout the world. The U.S. has closed its borders to visitors from some foreign countries. Grocery stores can’t stock their shelves fast enough. The stock market recently has taken significant hits.

So what do we do?

Several years ago, before yoga, pilates, and the barre, the craze sweeping the health and fitness world had to do with core strength training—exercises to strengthen your midsection—your abdominal and back muscles. Why strengthen your core? A number of advocates say a stronger core promotes better balance and stability.

I suggest we go back to strengthening our core. That is, our core beliefs.

The Bible mentions the word fear approximately 500 times. On occasion its use describes the benefits of fearing (respecting, loving, trusting) God. Other times it encourages us not to fear but to place our trust in God.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. (Prov.3:5 NLT)

We have no previous point of reference or historical data for the situation we’re currently facing. We can use good common-sense regarding hygiene (handwashing, covering a sneeze/cough, disinfecting surfaces), drinking water, and travel restrictions. However, there’s only one place our fears belong. Only one power alone can alleviate them.

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.  (Psalm 56:3 NIV)

David faced many fear-inducing situations, i.e., a bear, a lion, and a giant. So often he says he prayed and meditated on the Word of God. Consider this:

My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:2 NIV)

The following words were penned long ago by someone God gave abundant opportunities to put aside his fear and strengthen his trust in Him. Moses wrote:

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deut. 31:6 NIV)

It’s time to exercise our core beliefs. Do a search in the Bible for words of encouragement like trust, hope, or strength. I found one hundred references with the word strength without breaking a sweat (pardon the pun!). Another idea—listen to Christian songs with the word strength in them. Hint:  look up top ten Christian songs about strength on www.godtube.com.  May I suggest:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k47xB8eoT5g

Warning:  retaining our core beliefs may involve exercising facial muscles too. Smile. Not because we know what tomorrow holds, but we know who holds every one of our days, and we know He is faithful and just.

Blog post Amre Cortadino

www.merryheartink.com

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