Studies show that one of the most reliable indicators of longevity is a person’s grip strength. It is a great way to measure overall muscle conditioning, which is an indicator of overall nutrition, physical activity, and “disease profile.” Muscle mass helps one fight the wear and tear of aging, and studies increasingly show that grip strength is a good “proxy” for a lot of other areas of a person’s health picture (source).
New Testament writers speak figuratively of the importance of a strong grip. Paul tells Thessalonica to “keep a strong grip on the teaching we passed on to you both in person and in letter” (2 Th. 2:15, NLT). The word “grip” (“hold on to,” NAS) means to “retain in the hand, to seize” (Louw-Nida, 220). This word translated “hold” or “hold fast to” is found frequently in the gospels in a literal sense, often translated as “seize,” “arrest,” and “take hold of,” but also figuratively as “observing” something with zeal. John uses it with the seven churches of Asia to urge them to “hold fast” to their faith (Rev. 2:1, 13,14,15,25; 3:11). Twice, the Hebrews writer uses this word as a way of expressing endurance and faithfulness (4:14; 6:18). In other words, strengthen your grip!
There are a lot of ways to assess your spiritual grip strength:
- Devotional time with God
- Acts of service for others
- Church attendance
- Involvement in the church’s works
- The bearing of the fruit of the Spirit
- Godly and righteous speech
- A Christlike attitude and spirit
- Boldness to share Christ with others
- The ability to resist gossip
- Faithfulness in trials and hardships
- Resistance to peer pressure
- Focus on the needs of others
Of course, there are countless other measurements. But these are broad and representative of spiritual endurance. They challenge us to avoid being weak in faith, allowing ourselves to let go of Christ and the reward He has promised to those who hold on!
They say that grip strength for the hand can be measured and improved by squeezing a tennis ball at maximum strength for up to 30 seconds. Who hasn’t owned one of those hand grippers? For spiritual strength, search for ways like those listed above to hold to God’s unchanging hand!
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