Zone 2

Spiritual Skill: Patience (wk. 13/13)

Reading: Romans 12:9-16

In fitness, most people think progress comes only from pushing to the limit — you know, max effort workouts, PR lifts, high-intensity intervals. And those are helpful to a point. But seasoned athletes know the real magic also happens in Zone 2 — that steady, low-intensity heart rate range where you’re working, but not maxed out. Zone 2 doesn’t leave you breathless, instead it builds aerobic capacity, recovery efficiency, and long-term endurance. It’s not flashy, but it’s foundational to performance.

The same is also true in our spiritual life. Sometimes God dials back the intensity to build our endurance. Especially when it comes to the spiritual skill of patience. Patience is the process where we develop the character of God. And God has the kind of enduring patience we all need.

Think of the slower, quieter, less intense moments of life. Like being stuck behind a semi-truck driving to a vacation destination. Or when you’ve recovered from the pain of an injury and now find yourself building back strength. This is like Zone 2 training for patience. These moments don’t feel dramatic. You’re probably not going to lose it and blow up. But it’s in the low intensity space that God is doing some of His deepest, most enduring work in you.

So, what does low intensity patience look like? It’s enduring. You feel like you have an endless supply. It’s consistent. You can maintain that patience with little effort. It’s not a heavy burden. It’s like a kettlebell you could swing all day.

It feels like holding your tongue in a disagreement instead of snapping back. It feels like praying again when your situation hasn’t changed. It feels like showing up with a good attitude when no one notices or applauds. It’s not explosive. It’s consistent. It’s the kind of patience that builds a steady heart for the long haul.

So don’t dismiss the low and slow days. Don’t underestimate the value of patience that shows up quietly and steadily. If it feels like you’re in a season of repetition, of waiting, of quiet obedience — good. That’s spiritual Zone 2. Stay with it. Let patience do its work. Because the character of God is formed in the consistency, and it’s preparing you for whatever comes next. Embrace the pace — you’re right where you need to be. Welcome to Zone 2.

Questions for Reflection:

What does low intensity patience look like for you?

What or who have you become more patient with over time?