Playing to win

And now, to interupt our regular programming ... some thoughts on life:

Games are interesting because we get to take risks and win, sometimes. Though the outcome is uncertain, we are usually willing to give our best effort to win. And if you lose ... well, it's just a game.

Games are also interesting because they reflect real life. In real life, we are up against challenges that we need to overcome, and the outcome is definitely uncertain. But do we always give it our best effort? And if we lose ... well, it's not just a game.

Whatever challenges we face in life, let's remember that we can't afford to give up, especially as Christians. Your challenge may be some sin you need to repent of, your dysfunctional relationships, or your cowardice in the face of God's calling. Don't give up.

I am a rather unenthusiastic sportsman. I don't play ball well because I don't feel the urgency that some others do. And honestly, I know that sometimes I won't win because the odds are stacked too high against me. But when it comes to life, I definitely don't want to lose. I don't want to give up, no matter what the challenge.

The great news is that, as Christians, all we have to do to win in life is stay in the ring. Just keep running, and you'll reach the end line a champ. God is looking for faithfulness, for stick-with-it-ness. We have to be like Rocky Balboa. We need to fight the good fight. Stick with it, man.

"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." ~ Paul the Apostle, 2 Timothy 4:7-8

"Run in such a way as to get the prize." ~ Paul the Apostle, 1 Corinthians 9:24