We Plant. God Grows. | 1 Corinthians 3:7
Devotional
“So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.”
Today’s verse is a much-needed reminder that we can do the work, but we cannot take credit for the growth. Paul planted, Apollos watered, but God was the one who gave the growth.
In Paul’s metaphor of planting the seed, he is referring to their ministry and nurturing of faith. While planting and watering these seeds of faith are necessary, they cannot go anywhere without God’s involvement.
It is God who gives us the ability to plant and water, share the gospel, and encourage others in their faith. Recognizing this should humble us. We can participate in the work, but we cannot take credit for the growth.
Although Paul is specifically talking about ministry, I think the same principle of humility applies to those of us who are heavily invested in fitness.
We can train consistently and eat well, but we should still recognize that we don’t control every part of the outcome. Our bodies, our ability to train, and even the opportunity to pursue fitness are gifts from God.
There are many reasons I believe this to be true, but one thing I’ve found is that God keeps me grounded. When I cast my worries on Him and allow Him to lead me, I have a sense of calm. I believe that He will take care of me.
I could do the same workout and eat the same food without Him, but there are many days when I simply wouldn’t have the same mindset without His presence. And as we all know, the mindset we bring into a workout can make a significant difference. He has been the difference between great sessions and bad sessions, personally.
We still have to plant. We still have to water. We still have to show up and do the work. But we should never forget who gives the growth.
Workout
Very similar to last week, we are continuing to refine the program. It will once again look similar, but not identical. Our subtle changes are just enough to push past plateaus, while keeping the same foundation that we can progressively overload.
By this point, our two squat days per week should be paying dividends. We’re putting in the work and continuing to water. Stay focused on our goals, but remember to give credit to God for the growth. May He allow us to continue getting stronger while remaining healthy.
Day One (Upper):
Bench Press: 10, 8, 8, 6
Weight Pull-ups: 3x8
DB Shoulder Press: 10, 8, 6
One-arm DB Row: 12, 10, 8
DB Lateral Raise: 15, 12, 12, 10
Finish with 2 Drop Sets
Day Two (Lower):
Squat: 8, 6, 6, 6
Barbell RDL: 10, 8, 8, 6
Incline Back Extension: 3x12
DB Reverse Lunge: 12, 10, 8
Ab Wheel: 3x15
Day Three (Upper):
Incline Bench Press: 10, 8, 8, 6
Barbell OHP: 10, 8, 6
Lat. Pulldowns: 12, 10, 10, 8
Chest Supported DB Row: 12, 10, 8
Seated Overhead Tricep Ext: 12, 10, 8
Finish with 2 Drop Sets
Close-grip Barbell Curl: 12, 10, 8
Finish with 2 Drop Sets
Day Four (Lower):
Deficit Deadlift: 8, 6, 6
Pause Squat: 10, 8, 6
Nordic Curls: 3x14
Goblet Squat: 8, 6, 6, 6
Lying Leg Raise: 4x16
Farmer’s Carry: 3 to failure (70% BW)