As I examine successful athletes, authors and entrepreneurs, I find a common characteristic which exists. Beyond a drive, focus and passion, those who rise above their competitors seize the moment daily. Vision serves as a blue print to carry out and fulfill goals set by each individual. Although delays and timing may be off, staying the course results in a path toward excellence.
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, 1 Corinthians 9:24.
When my two boys were much younger, each qualified for the Yes Athletics National Cross Country Championships for 3 consecutive years. As an 8 year old, Daniel was the East Regional Champion. However, when you compete against the best in the country, breaking the top 100 is an accomplishment. After talking to other coaches, parents and runners, I realized my kids hadn’t put in the miles or training to have a chance to contend.
No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize, 1 Corinthians 9:27.
If you want to be considered elite, dedication, sacrifice and an unswerving concentration is a must. Despite whatever talent you possess, the hungrier will creep up on anyone who isn’t willing to put in the time to improve. Everyone will reach their limit at some point, but God will honor those who grind it out daily no matter how they are feeling. I’m not sure what the future holds for my own aspirations, but I must fight with everything I have to keep my dreams alive by walking on the path to excellence.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 