When you look at an athlete like Michael Phelps you know that he is a driven individual. Mr. Phelps has won 18 Olympic gold metals since 2004. I think it is safe to say that he is a man that strives for excellence. I don't believe he was fulfilling another person's dream for his life. I believe he was willing to put in the time and struggle that it took to accomplish these victories because it is what he wanted for his own life.
What makes a person so determined? What would cause someone to go through all the pain? Where does the discipline come from that drives a person like Phelps to victory? Do you think his trainer had to get him out of bed or tell him to go to the gym? I think not! I think he was self motivated as he strived for excellence in his field.
I remember as a young man wanting to be a minister for the Lord Jesus Christ. I considered it (and still do) to be a high calling and honor to serve my King and have the ability to speak truth into the lives of people. My pastor and professors didn't have to tell me to study my Bible. I was not forced to pray or walk by faith. These were disciplines that I placed in my life as I strove for excellence.
It seems that in today's world Christians have the idea that all the information they could want is at their finger tips with a push of a button. If we want to know what the bible says about prayer we just google it. The one thing that google will never do for you is have "the words of God dwell in you richly." Knowledge at your finger tips is not the same as wisdom in your walk. If you are going to master the art of being a Jesus follower, it will take discipline, struggle, endurance, and pain. Paul said that he pressed toward the mark of the high calling of God. "That I might know him, and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings." (Phil. 3:10-16)
I am looking for the true disciples of Christ. Those that will get up early or stay up late if necessary. Those that study the word of God because that is what it takes to be transformed into men and women of God. Those that take the leap of faith knowing the awesomeness of their God and are not afraid to take chances. These are the game changers! These are the kingdom builders! These are the ones that will turn this world upside down with the gospel!
Don't be a google centered Christian. Be a gospel centered Christian. Strive to be a Kingdom Builder.
Learn more about Reliant Ministries at www.reliantrails.com.
