(2 Timothy 3:16 - 17; Hebrews 12: 11) Cross-training refers to an athlete training in sports other than the one that he competes in with the goal of improving overall performance. In fitness it refers to combining of exercises to work various parts of the body. Often one particular exercise works certain muscle groups, but not others; cross-training aims to eliminate this and enhancing overall strength. Of course, the cross-training I am speaking about is that of the cross of Christ, but the principle holds true. As Christians, we should be in strict training, disciplining ourselves in every area of our lives so we can produce results for God's glory. We do not want to be disqualified for the prize (1 Corinthians 9:24 -27). Therefore, God's word says, "All Scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy. 3:16 - 17). All too often we tend to pick and choose through God's Word what we want for ourselves and others. No, no all Scripture is useful for training in righteousness, so that the man/woman of God may be thoroughly equipped. We need the entirety of God's word to fulfill His destiny for life. I have seen weightlifters concentrate only on their upper half, while their lower half is almost comical, legs like a chicken (smile). Their legs are the foundation of their body, yet they desire simply to look appealing to others and themselves. As the word "disciple" indicates, we should live a disciplined lifestyle. God disciplines those He loves, but discipline can be voluntary (1 Corinthians 11:31 - 32). And even though discipline seems painful at first, we will produce a harvest of righteousness and peace when we are trained by it (Hebrews 12:11). Take notice how the cross has both a vertical and horizontal beam. The vertical can represent our relationship with God (Heavenly) While the horizontal represents the practical application of that relationship here on earth with others. Discipline for the Christian is simply God's word put into practice. So I encourage you, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" (James 1:22). You're in CROSS-TRAINING, my friend!

Cross training