Always changing

There is a common principle in weight training known as progressive overload. This principle suggests the intensity of workouts should be increased over time. Pretty simple, and should be easy to implement right? Well, on paper, sure. In application, maybe not. Applying the principle of progressive overload requires an individual to be willing to change and then change when the time is right. For instance, suppose an individual can do 5 push-ups. The principle of progressive overload would suggest that for this individual to get stronger and build more muscle, they should try for 6 push ups. Once that is achieved, move on to 7 push ups. So on, and so forth.

Over time, this means the individual must make consistent, little changes over time to get stronger. At some point, the individual will begin to regress if they do not increase the number of push-ups. Why is this? The muscles of the human body require stress to grow. If an individual doesn’t apply that stress, the muscles in the human body will not increase in size and strength. In fact, they will actually begin to go backward without that additional stress. One example of this is retired bodybuilders. They spend years growing their muscles with intense workouts. This changes when they retire. Their workouts change and therefore their body structure changes. They may maintain some muscle definition, but not like they had in the past.

The same principle of progressive overload can be applied to our spiritual health, especially in terms of addiction recovery. In order for us to become more like Christ, we must always be looking to make small, simple changes to align with Jesus Christ. This might mean learning to do the simple things - like prayer, scripture study, and attending church - first. Once that is mastered, it becomes time to add a little more. Maybe improving the language used in conversation is addressed. Note that just because a new thing is added doesn’t mean the learning skills are forgotten. Once the language is improved, maybe it’s time to focus on serving others. Again, remember to not forget the other things worked on.

This process of progressive overload can make one strong like Jesus Christ. The way we become like Jesus Christ is through change. We must constantly be changing and looking for ways to improve. As Elder Uchtdorf taught, “Do you want to change the shape of your life? Change the shape of your day. Do you want to change your day? Change this hour. Change what you think, feel, and do at this very moment. A small rudder can steer a large ship. Small bricks can become magnificent mansions. Small seeds can become towering sequoias.” (Daily Restoration, General Conference, Oct 2021). If one is not constantly changing and working toward Jesus Christ, they will find they are actually moving away from Christ in some capacity,

I know that Jesus Christ lives! He is our Savior and Healer! I know that consistently looking for ways to improve and working on them through this life can help us draw closer to Jesus Christ. I know Jesus Christ is willing and able to help all those who believe in him to make the changes necessary to follow him!

In the name of Jesus Christ, amen!