The Men of Iron Minute

by Chad Zueck | Director of Content Creation

The Accountable Athlete

On a whim, Bill Thomas decided to run a 20-mile race. Before signing up, the longest run he completed was a 10k that benefited a local foundation, but he was determined to finish the 20 miler! After hours of study, Bill decided upon a training regimen and a good pair of shoes. In his excitement, he told everyone about this remarkable feat. People were in awe over his commitment and discipline. He could be seen running through his neighborhood, and friends rooted for his bold endeavor. Though the weather was going to be perfect, he felt unprepared and squeamish. Bill overlooked the value of nutrition and hydration. This would haunt him on race day.

Bill had the usual race day jitters. This race was unique. One would have to run by the start/finish line many times before completing 20 miles. The masses walked up to the starting line, and the gun popped off! Bill started a bit too strong, and his heart rate monitor showed that unfortunate decision. He was running in the top third of the pack, and he knew he didn’t belong there. He completed lap after exhausting lap. Bill began to have serious doubts about finishing. His physical exhaustion befriended a sadist called mental exhaustion. The mental gymnastics of “do I finish or do I just quit” crippled his willpower. In a mental lapse, he decided to get off the course and look for a shortcut to end the suffering. He found a loophole off the path and another back onto the course but much closer to the finish line. Undetected, Bill pops out on the course and runs the remaining distance towards the finish line, and they reward him as the winner of the race! Bill was stunned and silent. All the hoopla fell on Bill. The medal was placed around his neck, and everyone unknowingly cheered Bill’s fraud.

Is it just me, or is it disgusting that Bill won? Seeing someone win after cheating strikes a deep chord. I am thankful that with God, there are no shortcuts! God desires men of God to follow His will. That is why Paul’s message to Timothy is a favorite of men who play by the rules. “… if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules.” 2 Timothy 2:5, NIV84

I love knowing that this is true, and here are three takeaways to help you find and understand God’s will.

+ Seek Accountability from a godly man

+ Pursue Mentorship with a godly man

+ Embrace Leadership from God’s design

The conversation continues on the Men of Iron Podcast –

“The Great Athlete Doesn’t Take Shortcuts”

Feat. Garret Barbush (EP. 109)