It might be surprising to discover that the Bible is one of the best coaching guides when it comes to athletics…certainly the oldest one.
Mind, Soul, Heart and Spirit
Perhaps surprisingly, it talks about athletic competitions but, as with everything that comes from the Scriptures, there is a deeper meaning—one that isn’t about training your body but rather transforming your mind, soul, heart and spirit. Transforming all through the body of Christ. This holds true not only for us, but the persecuted church throughout the world. Read this amazing message (1 Corinthians 9:24-25) that Paul once gave to a church thousands of years ago:
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."
Displays of Strength and Skill
As we watch the athletes compete in the Super Bowl this year, we will witness some amazing displays of strength and skill and, at the end of the day, only one team will be holding the Lombardi Trophy. They will be praised. They will be honored. They will be remembered. And for good reason—they are the best. It’s a claim few can make and they will carry that achievement throughout the rest of their days.
Paul speaks of a great glory, however. One that takes an equal amount of training and sacrifice. But one that produces an even greater glory. An eternal glory that will never tarnish nor fade. This message lives within the hearts of believers throughout the world. It is a simple one: If you are going to compete, then compete to win!
The Persecuted Church
Though today’s players will compete in a sports stadium, there are others who compete daily—with their lives on the line—in a quite different arena. Around the world the Persecuted Church is fighting for the right to worship, to share their faith, and read their Bibles in safety while under the threat of torture, imprisonment and death from their governments. They too will win a prize, an eternal one.
And so while Americans will be celebrating a football champion surrounded by adoring fans, we invite you to be a part of a circle of support for these unsung heroes who every day go into a battle for their lives. Their glory will never be found in a trophy or a ring, but in stars placed in a heavenly crown.
Shoulder to Shoulder
Your prayers, your support, your willingness to stand shoulder to shoulder with persecuted believers is essential. Because if we aren’t behind them, who will be?
Paul, ends this same passage of Scripture with these amazing—and encouraging—words. May this day be your day to compete with everything on the line, just as it is for those unseen, anonymous Christians who compete in the shadows.
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."