Our whole goal in sports is to finish first, to be at the top when the battle is over. We train day after day, sometimes for years to accomplish our goal of being number one. What happens if we don't succeed in reaching our goal? Can we handle the consequences?

Who are some athletes (past and present) who were number one for years? Michael Jordan in basketball. Pete Sampras in tennis. Barry Bonds in baseball. Walter Payton in football. All tremendous athletes, but only human beings who have the same day-to-day problems as you and me. We're all trying to do what is right in life, but are being tempted by all that the world has to offer. But as it says in Isaiah, God is the First, and God is the Last! He will be with us forever if we seek and follow Him! Without God, there is no person or thing, living or dead who will help us through when we need guidance.

Our goals can be completed if we have the right attitude about competing in our worldly matches. We can obtain more strength and courage through giving God our lives on a more regular basis. If we pray for God to direct, and we live serving the way God wants us to, we can accomplish so much more.

Study His word and find the answers He has for you. Fellowship with other believers who will hold you accountable. Be a friend to that person who needs help. Handle everything with the love of Christ!