Time Under Tension

In weight lifting, the term "time under tension" refers to how long the lifter is placing his/her muscles under the rigor (or tension) of lifting weights. Increasing time under tension breaks down the muscles more, allowing them to grow strong once they're given a break and allowed to rest and recover. While this principle is widely recognized in the weight lifting world, it is often a stumbling block for many when it comes to matters of faith and spirituality.

Those who would try to disprove the reality of Christ’s ministry – and even more-so the existence and actuality of an infinite Atonement – argue that if the Atonement were real there would be no suffering or overwhelming burdens. Yet, I would argue that hardships and challenges in this life directly help to prove that the Atonement truly is real. As stated in the book of Moses, God’s great plan is for the benefit and salvation of mankind (Moses 1:39). Because it has always been about “the one” and helping that “one” to progress and improve and change, Christ’s Atonement was never intended to be a power which would eliminate all worry and difficulty; rather, it is “the rock foundation upon which all hope in this life and eternity is predicated” and the means whereby life’s challenges can be conquered. Nephi valiantly stated that he knew he could accomplish anything the Lord commanded Him because a way had been prepared (1 Nephi 3:7), and Christ taught His disciples that He is “the way” (John 14:6).

While suffering under great persecution, the Lord tells Alma and his people that “I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage” (Mosiah 24:14). “And now it came to pass that the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease” (Mosiah 24:15). Disciples of the Savior can find comfort in remembering that the Lord has promised that there is a way prepared, He has promised to help when help is needed, and He is bound so long as His commandments are obeyed (D&C 82:3).

The Lord understands perfectly the concept of time under tension, and He will put us in situations that cause our spiritual muscles to be flexed and used and exhausted and broken down, because that is how they are made stronger.