Ready:
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory.
1 Corinthians 10:31
Set:
The debate over steroid use on the college, professional, and Olympic levels is growing. Allegations of steroid use have cost many athletes their jobs and their lives. When their first priority is to honor and glorify self, some athletes will go to extreme measures. Their hope is in themselves and in pursuing their own glory. If they fail, they feel worthless. Their worth is tied up in being the best no matter what the cost.
In the 2004 Olympic games, Meb Keflezighi became the first American man since 1976 to win an Olympic medal in the marathon. What was Meb’s motivation? He wanted to honor and glorify God. Meb told Christianity Today, “I have goals, but God has a plan. Whatever plan he has, whether I finish first place, third or twelfth, I do everything I can to satisfy God.”
Meb’s focus was not on glorifying self, but on glorifying God. Meb’s hope is not in himself, but in Christ. Meb has a hope that does not disappoint because, win or lose, he is a child of God. He has a relationship with Christ. His life is secure in Jesus. So, no matter the cost, he chooses to be faithful to Christ.
Go:
1. As a competitor, is your attitude like that of Meb or of self-centered athletes?
2. Have you ever tried something illegal because you wanted to win? How did you feel afterwards? Did it bring you joy?
3. Why is it important to honor and glorify Christ in all that we do?
4. In what ways can you begin to honor and glorify Christ while you compete?
Workout:
Colossians 3:17
John 14:12-17
John 17:1-4
