Two months ago, my doctor explained the statin drug I was taking had caused myopathy in my legs. But in order to get off high cholesterol medication, I would have to change my eating habits. He convinced me to try a plant-based diet.
While karma is both a Hindu and Buddhist concept, I have to admit there’s something to it because I have spent a great deal of time making fun vegans, and now I don’t eat meat or dairy products.
Having said that, I am looking forward to the results of my blood work in a few months. My expectation is that my cholesterol will be low enough that I no longer need medication.
One of the unexpected but welcome results of a plant-based diet is the dramatic weight loss. I have now officially worked my way out of the Extra Fat Tom side of the closet. But the weight loss has also brought to my attention something I didn’t expect.
Last week, Shannon said, “Where did your muscles go?” I looked in the mirror and wondered the same thing. They weren’t under the bed, in the garage, or the closet. They were gone. This got me thinking.
When I put on all that extra weight, I stopped working out. But, as my muscles began to shrink, the fat took their place. Then, in losing the fat, I now see that my muscles have taken a vacation. Which reminds me of the old saying, “Use it or lose it.” But there are also other muscles that need to be exercised.
To work out our spiritual muscles is to pray, read the Bible, attend worship services, and do acts of service in the name of Jesus Christ. These are not onetime affairs, but a regular, disciplined way of living that brings us closer to the One who created, redeemed, and sustains us.
This is what Solomon meant by saying: “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
Today, take some time to work on your spiritual muscles. Because if you don’t use them, someday you may look up and they won’t be there.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me draw closer to you. Let me feel your presence, love, and peace. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Keeping these spiritual disciplines will enrich your life in ways you cannot imagine. Give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Just for the record, while I cannot make fun of vegans and vegetarians, I can still make fun of people who do yoga. That’s because you cannot call it exercise if you do it on a nap mat. And I don’t care how strongly my doctor recommends it, I’m not doing yoga. That’s my limit.
Now, if you will excuse me, it’s time to do some pushups.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 