God provides the power to gain strength through training and discipline. Just as bodybuilders train with weights in resistance training, so do we become stronger by resisting the selfish pulls of our bodies. Mental strength comes through exercising our mind with the Word of God; the more we read, absorb, and practice it, the stronger our minds become. We must be of a willing mind to accept God's way of life, making changes in our thinking to gain strength to resist those who would bring us down. Physically, we are to use our strength and capacity to worship God in all we do, going all-out. Mentally, we must be sober-minded and resistant to constant pressures on our thinking that distract us from the mind of Christ. Morally and spiritually, we must resist the evils around us, using the spiritual strength God supplies against society's ways and the wicked powers in high places.

The Christian life is not one of passive waiting for salvation and glorification, but a life of active, even strenuous education, practice, correction, and maturing, all aimed at replicating Christ's life and character in us. God has called us and given us time before glorification because there is much to be done beyond justification. This life is full of the process of sanctification, designed to prepare us for what is coming, which holds great importance. If we are not prepared, we will not hold the positions awaiting us in the Kingdom of God. Those who are Christ's disciples are undergoing a training period in preparation for the roles we will have in the Kingdom of God. This training is not a time of ease but requires diligent effort to prove ourselves worthy of our calling. We must strive through hard work to present ourselves approved of God, to be holy and set apart as children of God, not just legally but in actuality. Our walk must be worthy of God and Jesus Christ, meeting a high standard of qualification through cooperative effort between us and God. This preparation involves learning to judge righteously, basing decisions on God's Word, just as judges must know their law. We must be diligent in studying and applying biblical principles, discerning godly decisions for various situations, often through study, prayer, meditation, and the guidance of God's Spirit. Additionally, godly judges must possess unimpeachable character, striving for holiness and being without blame or corruption, to ensure we are never swayed from the right and godly way in the Kingdom of God.

The training of Navy SEALs is a grueling process that forges an unbreakable bond among them. Many begin the journey, but only a few endure to the end. The initial indoctrination phase, known as INDOC, prepares candidates for the intense seven-month BUD/S course, which stands for Basic Underwater Demolition SEALs. Out of an original class of 164, only 98 advanced to the first phase of BUD/S, and by the start of the infamous Hell Week, just 54 remained. After Hell Week, a mere 32 survived, having endured one of the most demanding six-day training periods in any fighting force worldwide. When candidates choose to drop out, they ring a bell at the commander's door and place their helmets in a line, signaling their decision. Instructors note that once the thought of quitting enters a candidate's mind, they are unlikely to become a SEAL, as even persuasion cannot sustain them. This training creates a bond closer than brotherhood, where the greatest fear is not death or injury, but letting each other down. This deep, loving connection is a defining mark of their identity as SEALs, reflecting a commitment to sacrifice for one another.

In facing the challenges on the horizon, training is essential to stand firm. To toughen spiritual bodies, God must be put first through consistent, fervent prayer, fasting, and meditation. Rising early to prioritize prayer and study is crucial, even if it requires adjusting daily routines, as the world will pull at you. Walking circumspectly, like navigating a minefield, means being vigilant about where feet and minds are placed, redeeming the time with blameless, prudent conduct to seize every opportunity. Learning to use spiritual weapons comes through action. Putting on the whole armor of God involves active steps to stand against trials, not just to endure but to be victorious, as God ensures triumph. Examining oneself during trials to live righteously, continuing down the path with a solid foundation, and maintaining active faith are vital. This faith quenches fear and the darts of satan, protecting the mind with the knowledge that God has called us to succeed and deliver us. The Word of God, the only offensive weapon, must be learned through attending Bible studies, personal study, and services, putting real effort into understanding it. Training prepares for the frightening experiences and tremendous stress ahead. By doing all homework and training, one can face what is coming with expectation rather than terror, reacting wisely to various situations as basic training teaches. Jesus Christ wore the same armor He instructs us to wear, standing in the same way, offering confidence to those who have prepared. Guard duty is a critical responsibility, watching over family and mind to prevent slipping into the world's escapes. Staying awake, guarding what enters the mind, and communicating with others to remain vigilant are essential. God rewards this watchfulness, protecting against fear and uncertainty by drawing close to Him. God is confident in bringing us through, expecting us to prepare our hearts by removing unseemly habits and conforming to His standards, ensuring victory over trials. Strength comes from effort, much like physical training. Drawing close to God through study and prayer builds spiritual vigor, increasing strength and faith. The more effort exerted, the closer one draws to God, becoming stronger and less fearful of what is coming. God desires us to be spent, used, and worn in service, growing stronger and helping others through dedicated training. The opportunity to slack off or drift into old habits exists, but the call is to take the instruction received and change life in preparation for what is sure to come. Planning to put forth the needed effort and taking the training ensures readiness not only for immediate challenges but, more importantly, for the Kingdom of God.