“Work as though you are working for the Lord”
READ
Colossians 3:23
REFLECT
After the Games it’s common to consider this time of year the beginning of a new training year.  It’s time to set goals and pursue new achievements in the sport of fitness.  It is wise to begin the goal-setting process by evaluating our purpose behind training.  What are we really aiming for?  What is the “why” behind our training?
There can be many reasons to train, but most fall into two categories.  They are either an aim for better form or better function.  Form is the way we look.  It could also include the form of our performance.  This is simply training so we can train more.
The other reason to train is function.  This is when the aim of our fitness is not accomplished within the gym.  Our work in the gym helps us accomplish another goal.  Our training can help us be more effective in our job, in our role as a parent, or in our ability to serve the world around us.
The Christian’s purpose for everything we do is the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:13).  Everything becomes a “thank-you” for what God has done through His Son on the cross.  How can we bring glory to God through our training?
Training for the glory of God is not simply saying a prayer prior to the workout, but prayer is certainly included.  Training for the glory of God is using physical fitness to help us bring attention to our Creator.  To train for the glory of God is to snatch up every bit of function from training and use it in the work God has called us to.  If we see our training as a vehicle for becoming more of the person God created us to be, then our “why” in training is the glory of God.
WHY DO YOU TRAIN?
AthleteWords OF THE DAY
“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
“That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.  God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.” – Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
“Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” – Matthew 5:16