March 16, 2009 - CPR for Success

Do you want to be a success? By successful I mean reaching one’s potential in an endeavor.

In coaching basketball I am trying to help players get the most out of their genetic abilities. The fact is that some will be able to jump higher, run faster, be taller, be thicker, etc. Therefore the object is to strive to be one’s best – to reach one’s potential.

There are many factors that go into this. I have narrowed it down into three categories that create a lifeline for success. These categories are based upon agricultural principles.

The first is “Cultivation.” Cultivating means preparing, working on, tilling the land, etc. It is designed to promote or improve growth. In basketball/life terms this would be “Conditioning” – physically, mentally, and spiritually. One must be in the best shape possible in order to reach his potential.

The second is “Planting.” After the field is prepared there is a specific seed that is laid down. It is not a random thing but instead a purposeful plan. In basketball/life this involves “Practice” that is skill specific.

The third is “Reaping.” The effort put forth in the first two steps leads to a time of “Reward” when one can partake of the fruit. Note that reaping is not necessarily easy but is nevertheless rewarding because fo the sense of accomplishment. One has reached his desired goals.

This is obviously a very broad synopsis. Yet the principles are of great value.

Cultivating (Conditioning) + Planting (Practice) + Reaping (Reward) = Success!

Most think that success is in the reaping. Sometimes you can stumble upon victory. Success is as Coach John Wooden often pointed out. It is found in the journey and joy of knowing one has reached his potential.

Believer, are you conditioning regularly - prayer time, Bible study/memorization, fellowship?

Are you practicing? Are there skill specific things you are working on that will help you in the game of life (i.e. studying how to share the Gospel, apologetics, specific Bible studies, etc,) I’m not talking about just casual reading but intense purposeful planned practice!

Are you reaping the benefits in real life? Are you finding that these skills come forth in the midst of the battle? Are you readily sharing the Gospel? Are you able to defend the faith?

Are you successful? If not you need C.P.R.!

1You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. 3Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. 5Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules. 6The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. (2 Timothy)