Athletes are truly inspiring to watch in action. They have trained to be the best at what they do. Natural talent is not everything, their ability had to be developed through a rigorous training plan which encompassed every area of their lives. Our passage today compares the Christian life to an athletic event. Some who at first profess faith in Christ end up giving up on Christ to go after sin. Others fail to live in Christ and end up in guilt and shame for their decisions (Mark 14:27-30). Our passage today reminds us that the key to Christian living is devotion, and we discipline ourselves for the things we love. What kind of discipline helps us grow in devotion?

Before He left this world, Jesus instructed His disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20), especially by sharing the gospel so more people could believe the message. Yet so few Christians actively share their faith. In our passage today, we will see the beliefs that are critical for getting started in sharing our faith.