Treadmill Trials

When You Feel Like Giving Up

One day I was on the treadmill at the gym. I already felt a lack of energy and motivation before I arrived. As I was speed walking, I kept feeling exhausted and after only a few minutes in, felt dizzy. I had already felt that enough was enough. I wanted to give up! The voice of doubt crept in and told me there was no point in continuing. After 10 minutes, I decided to go on the cycling machine in the hope that I would feel less dizzy and still resume with exercise. I ended up doing 25 minutes of cycling, which may seem minor to some people, but was a triumph for me in that moment. I began to reflect on WHY I had even decided to go to the gym in the first place.

I also thought that if I had thrown the towel in so early on, I would be further away from being fit and healthy. This taught me a valuable lesson. When we encounter challenging times in life, it is crucial to persevere, in order to reach our goals.

Later on in my gym session, I also realised that I hadn’t had enough water beforehand, and therefore I was probably quite dehydrated! The same can be said about our uphill battles and journeys in life. We must not give up too easily, when situations seem hard.  Moreover, not giving into that negative voice of doubt allows us to develop strength and a positive mind-set. Sometimes it is the way we go about certain things that determines how successful we’ll be. There are many different approaches and steps we can take to achieve our goals – the route is seldom absolute or rigid. If one, or even a few things don’t appear to be working, we can change or alter the routes to our destination instead of giving up completely.

Another important lesson is when we feel low on energy; we have to refuel – be it spiritually, physically or emotionally. In fact, in Matthew 25, the wise bridesmaids were the ones who gathered enough oil for their lamps; to ensure they were all set for the bridegroom’s arrival. Thus, we should always try our best to adequately prepare for any task ahead – especially if we know it will be challenging. Preparing ensures we are equipped to complete a task efficiently and sufficiently. This doesn’t just apply in terms of exercise, but practically relates to any situation in life – be it an interview, a presentation, a holiday; or even cooking a meal. As humans, we can sometimes feel weak when faced with hurdles and challenges. However, I always find comfort in knowing that God’s strength is far greater than mine, and that it is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, when we have no energy and feel like giving up, God is there to sustain and strengthen us – if we only just call and rely solely on Him, rather than our own strength.

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Here are 5 Practical Steps To Keep Going: 

1) Pray & Reflect on encouraging scriptures or quotes.

2) Write goals down.

3) Make a list of daily, positive affirmations to keep you motivated.

4) Watch or listen to motivational talks on YouTube, etc.

5) Have at least one positive, trustworthy friend you can turn to who can help you to keep pushing forward.

Encouraging Bible Texts:

1) “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. ~ Isaiah 40:29-31 (NLT)

2) “That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed everyday.” ~ 2 Corinthians 4:16 (NLT)

3) “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” ~ 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)

No matter what trials you may be experiencing right now, you can make it through.

Just don’t give up!

💜