During the 2008 Olympics, NBC aired a special segment on the diet of record-breaking swimmer Michael Phelps. It was incredible! They said that he tries to eat 8,000 to 10,000 calories a day. That is as much as I eat in five days. But when Phelps is in heavy training and competition, his body needs all the fuel it can get.
Allow me to make a quick analogy. As Christians, we’re in a daily spiritual battle, facing tough temptations, situations, interactions, and decisions. It’s our own version of Olympic competition, yet there’s a lot more at stake than a sporting event. The eternity of souls is up for grabs, and God has called us to compete for them.
Run the Race with Endurance
Just like Olympic athletes, we have to be properly prepared for competition. Would Michael Phelps choose to skip three meals before a race? No way! His body wouldn’t have enough energy to sustain him, and his competitors would smoke him.
So, why do we, as Christians, feel like we can face a single day without taking time to fuel ourselves spiritually? Is our competition not as fierce? Is the prize not as worthy?
There’s really no excuse. We either take the time to pray, read the Word, and fellowship with the Lord, or we do not. It’s that simple.
So, What’s The Play Call?
Today, search your heart and test yourself. Find out whether or not you value the spiritual battle enough to invest time in the proper preparation. If you fully believe in the cause you’re fighting for, then you will take the time to fuel yourself before entering the battle so you can run the race with endurance. Think about it.
- Do you spend time with the Lord every day? If not, how can you start now?
- Is your daily routine drawing you closer to God, or do you just go through the motions?
Father, I am Your servant. Please help me to prepare spiritually for battles that may lie ahead. Amen.
