"Use It Or Lose It"

The expression, “Use it or lose it” is often heard with regard to physical exercise. We know that our muscles must be used in order to insure their greater use in the future.

To fail to use one’s muscles, not only will lead to the loss of the strength we presently have, but will ultimately lead to the atrophy of our muscles. Disuse will bring about decay.

The same holds true regarding spiritual things. In the hearing, reading, and understanding God’s word, we must use our mental muscles.

These tasks are ongoing, through habitual use and repetition (Hebrews 5:12-14 NASB; cf. Deuteronomy 6:6; Psalm 37:31; Psalm 119:11).

The Lord warns us either to “use it or lose it” (Matthew 13:10-12; Matthew 25:29; Mark 4:24-25; Luke 8:16-18; Luke 19:26).

Beloved, let us use the abilities and talents that our Lord has given us for His glory (Ephesians 4:11-15; cf. Matthew 25:14-23; Matthew 5:14-16).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets