Nobody becomes exceptional at their sport by accident. It requires spending countless hours in the gym, weight room or on the field or court. The athletes who consistently grow are the ones who are consistent with their habits.
A relationship with Christ works the same way. Nobody has a strong relationship with Christ accidentally. It requires the same amount of dedication and discipline as coaching or playing a sport.
Whether that’s reading your Bible, stopping to pray in the middle of your day or opening your heart and eyes to see God in the moment, you are training in godliness.
Make sure you are always remaining in the presence of God. It cultivates our faith and deepens our dependence on Him, for our good and God’s glory.
Revealed glory
Because He renews your life—by giving you a new heart. When God gives you a new heart, He also gives you a new purpose and, through His Holy Spirit, new power to walk out that purpose with boldness, confidence and conviction. You can do anything God calls you to do, but you can’t do it alone!
As you are renewed in Christ, you have a new heart, which creates a new identity in Him. Then, there is a new purpose to your life: To spread the Gospel and live your life for Jesus. As an athlete, your new purpose might be to use your sport as a way to reflect how Christ as changed your life or to share the gospel with teammates, coaches, and others within your sphere of influence. You also have access to the power of the Holy Spirit, who will give you strength and courage to do what God has called you to do. As you step out in this new purpose and power, you will begin to see your life transformed.
KEY VERSE
“My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be
my disciples. As the Father has loved me, I have also loved you. Remain in my
love. If you keep my commands you will remain in my love, just as I have kept
my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you these things so
that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.”
