Critical Choices for Greatness

"Whatever weakens your reason impairs the tenderness of your conscience obscures your sense of God, takes off your relish for spiritual things, whatever increases the authority of the body over mind, that thing is sin to you, however innocent it may seem in itself."

-Susana Wesley, wife of John Wesley

This is a very deep and widely encompassing quote. There is first the mention of reason. To reason is to find answers to problems by considering possible solutions. There must be an ability to think, understand and form judgments by process of logic. How does one develop "strength" in their sense of reasoning? Athletes must rely on what they have learned from family, coaches, pastors, teachers, older siblings and other mentors to form a sense of right and wrong. Solutions and choices regarding those solutions are not only connected to the perception of what is right or wrong, but will also help or hinder one's advance through the athletic journey.

Armored Life is advocating that the strength of conscience is rooted in the Word of God. In the quote "the tenderness of conscience" refers to having the keen ability to avoid choices destructive to your life. Fortunately, or perhaps at times unfortunately, we must also adhere to the demands of society structured by man. One example would be the NCAA rules. Although athletes (and even coaches) may be in disagreement with these rules, it is important to maintain a strong sense of reason so that you maintain a scholarship and a favorable reputation.

There are a wide variety of distractions in the world that can obscure your sense of God. Collegiate athletes have an incredibly rigorous schedule. Academic demands, study hall, tutoring, practice, performance training, injury treatments, time to eat and time for social interaction. These are the necessary and important components of the experience. Time to maintain a proper spiritual commitment can begin to be a challenge and we haven't even begun to mention time consumed by involvements that are unnecessary.

The majority of my coaching career required a full Sunday of preparation which included practice, rehab, meetings, etc. throughout the in-season phase. Somehow, collegiate football found a way to take Sunday away from the family during that time of the year. Because of a full Sunday schedule beginning mid-day following a game day, it became very challenging for coaches and players to make it to a church service. Athletes have to find a way to prioritize worship. Keeping your spiritual life at the top of your priorities is the absolute best choice you can make as a lifetime decision.

To increase the authority of body over mind refers to temptation related to the flesh. This is the most glaring issue with young adults for as long as anyone can remember. Many times, experimentation with alcohol and drugs is a starting point for future addiction which clouds any rational decision involving mind over matter. Having a clear mind and a solid spiritual commitment to treat the body as a "temple" is crucial to the young athlete aspiring to operate at the highest possible level. It's not rocket science to recognize the foods that are harmful or lack nutritional value. Alcohol is good for nothing. Also, nothing good happens late at night, and you deprive your system of precious sleep. An inward moral sense of knowing right from wrong with strength of conscience should intervene with decisions regarding sexual indulgence. Family planning can also help you avoid financial distress.

In summary, there are natural consequences for poor choices not rooted in scripture. The result is suffering and guilt. If a time arises when you feel as though you have lost even a slight bit of your conscience, it is time to run to a pastor or mentor to avoid potential disasters in your life. That is the essence of Armored Life. To provide an oasis for those who need a reset.