How much would you pay for an exercise plan in which someone else does the exercise and you receive the benefits?
Would you join a health club with this promise?
Guaranteed: Our club provides you peace through trainers who know what you need. They work for you to accomplish what is best for you. At our club we give the effort, and you get the benefits.
I would sign up. How about you?
The club with the guarantee above sets up a location in downtown Springfield and then advertises:
Cost is free. We give this service to you.
I pay about $20 a month at my club. How much do you pay?
At first everyone would be skeptical. Being Pastor Grant, a person who leaps off cliffs without thinking, I would be there the first day. When it worked – not if, but when it worked – and you saw that I have lost 20 pounds and look like a teenager, what would you think?
Still cautious? Did you notice that my hair has turned back to brown?
First me, then you, then a stampede. All other health clubs in the area close. It would be foolish to not join.
This health club does exist. The cost is free.
Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (NASB)
Let me define words and phrases for you:
Sanctify… everything toxic gone.
Spirit… what connects you to life.
Soul… mind, will, emotion – the ability to make great decisions, power to say “yes” and “no,” and feel great about yourself.
Body… what contains the soul and spirit and has gained five pounds over the holidays.
Completely… totally with nothing left out.
He will do it… Jesus is faithful!
Let’s re-read what Paul is advertising in 1 Thessalonians 5:23-25:
May God give you peace, removing anything toxic in your relationship with Him, a positive attitude, giving you the will to serve, having joy, and healing for your body. Jesus will do this for you completely, so that you will be ready when He comes back for you. (OGV)
In 2021 this promise is for you, perfect health – and its free. I love the banding motto of my new health club:
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 1 Thessalonians 5:28 (NASB)
I hope to see you at the club this year. Try it!