Dave Kaiser will always be remembered as the kicker who couldn’t see. During a crucial game for Michigan State, he made the game-winning field goal without even seeing the goalposts because he had forgotten his contact lenses. Instead of panicking, he trusted his training—years of discipline and repetition had prepared him for that moment. He didn’t need to see the goal; he just needed to do what he had practiced.
Paul gives us the same principle in 1 Timothy 4:7, saying, “Train yourself for godliness.” The Greek word for “train” is gymnázō, the root of gymnasium, emphasizing intentional discipline. Just as Kaiser’s practice enabled him to perform under pressure, our daily commitment to Scripture, prayer, and humility prepares us for life’s challenges—even when we can’t see the outcome.
One of the biggest barriers to spiritual growth is pride. 1 Corinthians 8:1 warns us that “knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” Many people study the Bible for information rather than transformation. Jesus, the ultimate example of humility, said, “I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29). If our knowledge of God’s Word doesn’t make us more like Jesus, then we’re missing the point.
Like Dave Kaiser, we must train in godliness before we need it. When trials come, we may not see the way forward, but our discipline in faith will carry us through. If we approach Scripture with humility and a heart to be changed, we will be equipped to stand strong, no matter what comes our way.
? Stay Rooted in the Bible, Train for Godliness, and Walk in Humility!
Paul gives us the same principle in 1 Timothy 4:7, saying, “Train yourself for godliness.” The Greek word for “train” is gymnázō, the root of gymnasium, emphasizing intentional discipline. Just as Kaiser’s practice enabled him to perform under pressure, our daily commitment to Scripture, prayer, and humility prepares us for life’s challenges—even when we can’t see the outcome.
One of the biggest barriers to spiritual growth is pride. 1 Corinthians 8:1 warns us that “knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” Many people study the Bible for information rather than transformation. Jesus, the ultimate example of humility, said, “I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29). If our knowledge of God’s Word doesn’t make us more like Jesus, then we’re missing the point.
Like Dave Kaiser, we must train in godliness before we need it. When trials come, we may not see the way forward, but our discipline in faith will carry us through. If we approach Scripture with humility and a heart to be changed, we will be equipped to stand strong, no matter what comes our way.
? Stay Rooted in the Bible, Train for Godliness, and Walk in Humility!