Run With Passion

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come (1 Timothy 4:8, NIV).

One beautiful Sunday afternoon I decided to take a drive through the neighborhood in Lexington where I used to live. Lots of folks were out and about—kids playing in the front yard, and people walking their dogs. I noticed one kid in particular. He was running, not jogging, down the sidewalk while handling a soccer ball.

My physical therapy brain immediately kicked in with concern as I noticed the cracks, uneven surfaces, and began imagining the outcome if he got tripped up by the soccer ball.

The athlete in me immediately connected with the young man as he was moving so smoothly and with such specific intention. It was obvious that handling the ball wasn’t impeding his ability to run, rather it was likely motivating him to keep going.

Athletes are required to train for endurance. Training varies depending on the sport, but it’s vital that an athlete be in excellent physical shape while also possessing a specific set of skills (juggling a soccer ball, shooting a basketball, hitting a backhand in tennis, and so on.) Learning to combine these things, along with possessing a certain level of God-given ability, is what brings value and facilitates success.

Jesus wants that same level of commitment from us when it comes to the training of our hearts. 1 Timothy 4:8 says: For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

This scripture is one of my favorites. It reminds me that physical training is of some value. And as someone whose life has been impacted in a significantly positive way through athletics and physical training, I would argue that it’s more than some. However, the promise that godliness has value both now and in the life to come is a reminder that I need every single day.

Have I spent as much time in my life training for godliness as I have on physical training? Definitely not.

Am I learning the value of combining both and starting to see the impact it can have on my life as I desire to reflect Jesus here on Earth? Yes, absolutely.

If I could go back to that day and spend a few minutes with the young boy who was running with his soccer ball I would sit and talk to him about Jesus.

I would encourage him to pursue his passions, but remind him it’s not where his value lies.

I would share with him that he is fully loved by God no matter his level of physical training.

I would tell him that the world judges us by our performance, but Jesus looks at our heart.

No matter what training you choose to pursue today, Jesus wants you to carry those truths with you.

#christ #thenarrowpath #faith #discipline #jesus