Today we talked about what it takes to be a successful athlete and what it takes to be a victorious Christian: the right motive, self-control, and exercise. The right motive can be the difference between winning and just showing up. During worship, I had you ask each other about your motivation. Let me ask you again; who or what motivates you in your walk with Christ?
Secondly, you need self-control or discipline. It takes having a plan and working that plan to improve, both as an athlete and a Christian. Let me ask you. What is your plan for spiritual growth? How disciplined are you in working that plan?
Lastly, we need to exercise our faith. What are you doing in that arena in your life? Are you 'exercising' your faith by living it out in front of others? Do you have a 'work out partner', some one who can help you stay focused and help you along the way?
BTW, I mentioned Micheal Phelp's today and his dedication to swimming, which led him to an unprecedented 8 gold medals in a single Olympics. According to a recent report, he was recently pictured smoking pot. I said in my sermon that part of our human (sinful) nature leads us to struggle with the "works of the flesh". We talked about the indwelling presence of the Spirit of God, who helps us overcome and that God's presence with us does not erase the struggle itself. Micheal's recent misstep simply underwrites this aspect of our lives. Even with the motivation, self-control and exercise that has taken him to the pinnacle of his sport, like each of us, he is human and struggles with the reality of being a mere mortal.
Secondly, you need self-control or discipline. It takes having a plan and working that plan to improve, both as an athlete and a Christian. Let me ask you. What is your plan for spiritual growth? How disciplined are you in working that plan?
Lastly, we need to exercise our faith. What are you doing in that arena in your life? Are you 'exercising' your faith by living it out in front of others? Do you have a 'work out partner', some one who can help you stay focused and help you along the way?
BTW, I mentioned Micheal Phelp's today and his dedication to swimming, which led him to an unprecedented 8 gold medals in a single Olympics. According to a recent report, he was recently pictured smoking pot. I said in my sermon that part of our human (sinful) nature leads us to struggle with the "works of the flesh". We talked about the indwelling presence of the Spirit of God, who helps us overcome and that God's presence with us does not erase the struggle itself. Micheal's recent misstep simply underwrites this aspect of our lives. Even with the motivation, self-control and exercise that has taken him to the pinnacle of his sport, like each of us, he is human and struggles with the reality of being a mere mortal.
Dick Hoyt (pictured above with his son Rick) is one of my earth-bound heroes. He knows all about being committed to the values we have listed above. And look at the power of his relationship with Rick (his son) and the lives they both have touched by their powerful story. The same could be said of us, if we have the right motivation, self-control, and exercise our faith!
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