Thirsty

When it comes to thirst, athletes need to be careful. Once the body initiates this feeling, we need to take in fluids ASAP to make sure our bodies continue to function properly and cool down while we compete.

We all know we can’t live without water. It regulates your body temperature, protects joints, helps remove waste from your body and more. It’s 100 percent critical for life and activity. Still, many athletes don’t take in enough of this life-giving nutrient. As a result, they exist and move but their bodies can’t function at optimum levels.

Jesus made a wonderful analogy when He referred to Himself as living water. He is our most critical nutrient. Without Him we have no hope, no salvation, no life. We absolutely must have Him if we are to experience life to the full here on earth and someday have life with the Father beyond this one. And while many of us have taken the first steps and “tasted,” we often don’t get enough of Jesus to thrive. As a result, we have salvation but aren’t functioning at optimum levels. 

During a recent training run, I decided to try a new path. It wasn’t the best environment. There was no breeze, the constant sun was uncomfortable, and I got thirsty fast. Suddenly, a thought came to my mind: “My grace is sufficient. My love is sufficient. My approval is sufficient.” I wondered what was going on that made this message necessary, but when I finished the run I knew the answer. As I drank a refreshing, nutrient-rich beverage, it was obvious. I needed more of Jesus.

Today, don’t forget to drink enough water as you compete. But even more important, don’t forget to take in plenty of Living Water. Let Jesus fill you up and help you experience life at the optimal level.