For example, call it far-fetched but there is a parallel between following Christ and running. Both require sacrifice and discipline. In running, I have to sacrifice my time (especially on long runs), my money, my sleep, and even my body (the lost toenails, the sore knees, and the tendinitis). I have to be disciplined and make myself run even on the days when I all I want to do is stay in bed and sleep. But it's my love for running and crossing the finish line that gets me passed the sacrifices and the discipline. Following Christ also requires sacrifice. I must sacrifice trying to be in control, doing things my own way, and living in worldly ways. It too, requires discipline. Having a personal relationship sounds easy, but sitting down each day, really looking at the Bible and what it has to offer, and then applying to my life, is difficult. I'm the only one who is control of disciplining myself to make sure it happens. It's a difficult skill to learn, even harder to teach.
Like running, following Christ means submitting yourself to something or someone else so that you can be better than what you are.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus... -Hebrews 12:1-2
I feel the same way! Running has done amazing things for my relationship with God. It has taught me so much about discipline, endurance, and commitment, too. What a great sport we're a part of!
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