Training for Eternity: Spiritual Formation Guide
Goal setting at the beginning of the season or calendar year is commonplace for those in athletics – or really most people. To progress toward a goal, we must start with the end in mind. Consider a competitive weightlifter. After reflecting upon the previous year and recognizing potential, the coach and the athlete scribble down goals for the season: bench x lbs, squat x lbs, deadlift x lbs, win a championship. From there, they devise a detailed plan to guide toward those goals. Does any of this sound familiar to you?
For a sports person, goal setting is necessary. You’d be hard pressed to find a true overnight success story. The proverbial ‘grind’ is an essential part of achieving athletic success.
However, consider this: What if we gain everything sport has to offer but lose our soul? (Matt 16:26)
Thoughtful goal setting and diligent work is not bad. In fact, many bible verses point to the importance of honest effort and how it glorifies the Lord. But if we are not careful our hearts will focus on earthly production to the exclusion of what matters more: soul transformation.
Dallas Willard, a Christian philosopher, reminds us “The most important thing in your life is not what you do; it's who you become. That's what you will take into eternity.”
So, this beckons the question: who are you becoming?
It’s worth noting that maturing in Christlike character is hardly ever linear and certainly never immediate. It’s a slow process that happens over time. But rest assured in the words of Jesus:
“Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29-30 MSG
The following discipleship tool will help you consider what it looks like to walk with Jesus this season through unforced rhythms of grace. This is not meant to be a formula but a guide. It’s an invitation to experience God’s grace that will transform you over time.
