As men, we’re often drawn to the world of sports, where discipline, hard work, and dedication are essential for achieving excellence. But have you ever stopped to think about the parallels between excelling in sports and walking with Christ? In this blog, I’ll explore how the discipline of excellence in sports can prepare us for a life of excellence in our faith.
The Intersection of Sports and Spirituality:
Consider the life of Tony Dungy, a former NFL coach and renowned Christian leader. Dungy’s dedication to his faith and his craft is a testament to the power of combining discipline and spirituality. In his book “Quiet Strength,” Dungy writes about how his Christian faith has shaped his approach to coaching and leadership. “I want to be a champion in every area of my life,” he says. “I want to be a champion on the field, and I want to be a champion in my faith.”
Dungy’s commitment to excellence in both his faith and his sports career is a powerful reminder that these two areas of our lives are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can inform and enhance each other. As 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Discipline and Excellence in Sports:
Athletes know that discipline is the key to achieving excellence in sports. It requires a daily commitment to training, practice, and hard work. But discipline is not just about physical preparation – it’s also about mental and spiritual preparation. When we discipline ourselves to prioritize our faith and our relationship with God, we open ourselves up to a life of spiritual excellence.
Here’s David, the young shepherd who became a mighty warrior and king of Israel. In 1 Samuel 17, David faces off against the giant Goliath, armed with nothing but a sling and a stone. But David’s faith and trust in God give him the confidence to take on the giant. “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin,” David says to Goliath, “but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty” (1 Samuel 17:45-47).
Like David, we can face our own giants of doubt, fear, and insecurity, but with the discipline of excellence in our faith, we can overcome them and achieve spiritual victory.
The Connection Between Sports and Spirituality:
So how can we apply the discipline of excellence in sports to our faith? Here are a few takeaways:
Set Goals: In sports, we set goals and work towards them with discipline and determination. In our faith, we should set spiritual goals, such as reading the Bible daily, praying regularly, or serving in our community.
Prioritize Practice: Athletes know that practice is essential for improving their skills. In our faith, we should prioritize spiritual practice, such as attending worship services, participating in small groups, or engaging in acts of service.
Focus on the Process: In sports, we focus on the process of improvement, rather than just the outcome. In our faith, we should focus on growing in our relationship with God, rather than just achieving a certain outcome.
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Jeff Hagen
President & Founder
Hill Cities, Inc.
