It’s that time of year when everyone’s off-season program is in full swing and some of you are gearing up for Spring practice. While you are looking at your program, I want to encourage you to use this as a time of SELF-evaluation also.
We hear and read about famous men who get themselves in trouble because they can’t control themselves. I want to encourage you to “NOT cross the line!” Set clear boundaries for yourself— and KEEP them! Wisdom tells us: 1) Don’t cross the line. The first time you do you tell yourself, “just this once.” But what you don’t know is, you’ve opened a door you may not be able to close!
2) It’s easier to cross it the second time. The man who slips downstairs while his wife’s sleeping to watch something on tv or on the computer that he knows he shouldn’t (why is he sneaking around if it’s OK??!!) soon discovers that, like an addict, you have to increase the dosage. Before you know it you’re driven to seek even higher levels of arousal. The Bible makes it pretty clear: “Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey?” (Rom. 6:16)
3) Eventually the line gets blurred. You keep wavering between what’s right and what’s wrong, thinking, “I can quit any time that I want,” and the Enemy of our soul whispers, “Gotcha!”
4) Finally the line disappears. Like the story of the Prodigal Son, you lose everything. Spiritually, you lose your confidence before God. Personally, you lose your sense of self-worth. Publically (and this is when it goes viral), you lose respect and influence with others.
It’s important to note that “good” things can hurt you too! For instance, a work ethic is a good thing, but lack of balance can make you neglect your family and even ruin your marriage. Rest and relaxation are good things, but too much “vegging out” in front of the TV will stunt your growth… professionally
