Everybody wants the glory. Why shouldn’t we? It feels good to have someone say we played a good game. It feels good when someone compliments our athleticism or coaching skills. It feels good to hear our name over the loud speaker after a good play. The problem is, we didn’t do anything to deserve it.

Paul told the church at Corinth that they didn’t have anything they didn’t receive. That means they didn’t have anything at all that God did not give to them. Most of our society today has forgotten this.

I was fortunate to be one of the best high jumpers in the world for many years. My best jump of 7’ 10.5” still ranks as one of the top four of all time. Jumping at a bar that high almost seems impossible when looking at it with our natural eye. In fact, most people won’t even attempt to jump because they are intimidated by its height. But for world-class jumpers, we’re never intimidated because we look through a different set of eyes. We often focus on a point high above the bar to guide us in the right direction. At times, we don’t even see the bar because our eyes are set on something much higher.

As an athlete the goal is to get in the best possible shape. Many athletes will cross train by running, biking, swimming, and other training programs to stay fit.

I am sure the apostle Paul knew what it took to be in shape. He did not just hop into his Hummer and take off on his missionary journeys. He hoofed it to get from place to place. I don’t doubt that he was in pretty good condition. He wrote often about athletes and staying fit, understanding the need for spiritual fitness. Paul knew in order to battle his spiritual opponents, he had to be in the best spiritual shape possible. He studied God’s Word, prayed without ceasing, and fellowshipped with countless believers. He knew spiritual fitness would draw him closer to his heavenly goal.