Ultimate Fighting, Part 1

I interviewed Terry, a Mixed Martial Arts pro, in preparation for Sunday's message: Ultimate Fighter. Impressed by his respect for Jesus --even though Terry's been unchurched all his life. What impresses Terry most is Jesus' commitment to his cause, and the courage and discipline he displayed in completing his mission. Watched Terry spar afterwards --brutal! Recall how much training preceded competing in wrestling 30 years ago. Even though I'm a relatively fit guy, I'm in no shape to compete, absent a LOT more training. The bible puts conditioning into perspective: "train yourself to be godly. Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." (1 Timothy 4:7-8,) Another translation puts it this way: Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium are useful, but a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit both today and forever." (The Message) Both history and the bible are littered with tragic tales of guys who got defeated morally, and who wrecked their lives and families as a result --most while on the back-end of life, when they were just past their zenith. There's a lesson for each of us, and that is to maintain those spiritual habits ("disciplines") that keep us on track with God and with His purposes for our lives. How's your training regimen? Do you have a training team? Are you fit enough to win any moral contests, or are you headed for defeat?