Resistance Training - 1 Peter

Resistance training is a form of strength training in which each effort is performed against a specific opposing force generated by resistance (i.e. resistance to being pushed, squeezed, stretched or bent). Exercises are isotonic if a body part is moving against the force. Exercises are isometric if a body part is holding still against the force. Resistance exercise is used to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles. Properly performed, resistance training can provide significant functional benefits and improvement in overall health and well-being.

The goal of resistance training, according to the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI), is to "gradually and progressively overload the musculoskeletal system so it gets stronger." Research shows that regular resistance training will strengthen and tone muscles and increase bone mass. Resistance training should not be confused with weightlifting, power lifting or bodybuilding, which are competitive sports involving different types of strength training with non-elastic forces such as gravity (weight training or plyometrics) an immovable resistance (isometrics, usually the body's own muscles or a structural feature such as a door frame). Full range of motion is important in resistance training because muscle overload occurs only at the specific joint angles where the muscle is worked.

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Resistance training strengthens bones, joints, and muscles. Perform resistance training three times per week, resting one to two days before working the same muscles again.

1 Peter 1:6-9 "In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, {being} more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls."

To me, Peter is saying that even though we may not like the resistance training that we are going to go through, it is for our benefit and to bring glory to God (when we handle our trials and sufferings rightly). 1Peter 1:7

Peter gives us examples of the weights of the opposing force and how it will help us to get rid of the toxins in our bodies and build up our muscles of faith. As one body the church in the NT grew under persecutions and because of persecutions. We see this happening in countries such as India and Haiti….the church is growing as Christians families and homes are being destroyed.

Our ‘weights’ could be:
Grief in all kinds of trials – 1 Peter 1:6
Painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 1Pt 4:12
Insulted because of the name of Christ 1Peter 4:14
Suffering as a Christian (not as a murderer, thief or criminal) 1Peter 4:15

"Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever. Amen" 1Peter 5:8-11

Our training should include:
1. prepare our minds
2. be self-controlled
3. set our hope on Christ
4. be obedient
5. don’t conform to evil desires
6. be holy live as strangers here in reverent fear
7. purify yourself by obeying the truth
8. love one another deeply
9. submit to the Father and each other


Get rid of:
1. All malice
2. Deceit
3. Hypocrisy
4. Envy
5. Slander of every kind
6. Sinful desires


My Interpretation:

I must train every single day because I get flabby and out of shape really quick. I don't like to train because, well honestly, I'm lazy! (My husband is doing sit ups as I write this!) So I pray...Lord, please help me and thank you for your Holy Spirit who is the ultimate personal trainer!