Giving 110%

Scripture tells us to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6, NASB). For this reason, training is essential to the well-being of a child, so he or she may live life in a strong and healthy way.

Training can be illustrated in many ways: an athlete must learn and train to become a champion. A pianist must be instructed and practice to become a concert performer. An artist must learn the skills and philosophy of drawing and painting and then practice to become masterful at his or her craft. And so it is with any craft or skill.

Shouldn’t all true believers be able to call forth excellence and integrity as a reflection of Him in our lives? Yet excellence and integrity are personal issues. One can only grow in these areas through personal commitment and a decision that says, “Regardless of what is happening around me, I will be the best I can be, work the hardest I am able, and pursue the highest standards, especially for my personal life where no one but God sees. My worship of God requires that I pursue the standard of His holiness as an affirmation of His reality in my life.”

This labor of excellence, personally and in the lives of our children, will take many long years. But if we are not committed to pursuing whatever it takes to build this excellence, then what hope do we have for our future, and how can we represent Him, who has given all?

His Promises

Praise the LORD, who is my rock.

He trains my hands for war

and gives my fingers skill for battle.

Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.

Athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules.