When I sent this vid from Waikiki to one of my kids, they asked me:
"Dad, why do you have to wax down your surfboard?" Great question! We wax our boards so as to cause friction between the board and our feet. This keeps us from falling off. Really, it's just that simple. Smooth Surface + Friction = Success.
In the world of exercise science, this is called eustress (the Greek "eu-" means good; hence eustress versus distress). Waxing your surfboard is "good friction." Instead of causing harm or fear, it should give you a burst of energy, focus, and motivation to perform well. Common examples include:
- Starting a new job
- Riding a roller coaster
- Running a marathon
- Planning a wedding
Distress is bad stress. It always feels overwhelming. It causes anxiety. Over time, it hurts, not helps, your health.
Eustress is fun. It is exciting. It brings anticipation instead of dread.
Take if from a surfer. Not all stress or friction in life is bad. God uses stress in our lives to build our character, test our faith, and draw us closer to himself. Like a farmer prunes a vine, so God uses trouble to produce patience and help us grow mature and complete in Christ.