Why Do You Race?Намуна

“Bad” Reasons to Race

Have you ever considered what an idol looks like? When I hear that word, I think of a golden statue of a cow or perhaps some other golden statue covered in jewels that some historical, primitive people would have worshipped. Thank you Indiana Jones for helping us with that! As you think of idols, I’m guessing that most of you don’t associate anything in our modern world as fitting that description, at least nothing that is currently being worshipped as a deity by our culture. However, while the shape may be different than what’s locked in your mind, idols are all around us.

One definition of an idol might be an image or object worshipped as a god; something that is the focus and praise of one’s attention; something one makes great sacrifices to and for; something someone trusts in for their happiness, security, sense of peace, and protection; or something one strongly identifies himself/herself with in terms of affirmation and belonging. Based on this definition, do you see any new shapes for modern idols?

In America, idols may look like wealth, power, careers, education, material goods, and accomplishment to name a few. Idols are also present in modern-day sports, and for endurance athletes they may include race finishes, PR’s, Kona/Boston qualifications, new bikes and wheels, Ironman titles, etc. As you look at the above list though, consider the source of who or what is seeking to be glorified through these idols. Often times, at a deeper level, our root idol may actually be ourselves.

As you consider the shock of that statement; think about who people trust in, who they care most for, who motivates their decision making, who they give ultimate authority to, who they invest in, and who they ultimately trust in for their security, protection, needs, desires, success, etc. Often times, it’s themselves! While very few would readily admit it, people have made themselves their own “god.” They, or something they desire, are their idol. Not only is this thinking a blatant affront to God’s sovereignty, leading to catastrophic eternal consequences, it is also a very bad reason to race.

So, what is a “bad” reason to race? Any reason that glorifies something other than God. This could be demonstrated through personal pride, vanity, selfishness, worldly identity, or the idea that you could earn respect, love, honor, or worth from a sport. While I believe that many would join me in labeling these as “bad” or at least not great reasons to race, I also believe that many of us have struggled with racing for these reasons during certain seasons of life. If this is you, I urge you to remember why you’re here. Do not devote your training and racing to idols, but do all things for the glory of God!

Reflections:

1. What do you think of when you hear the word “idol”
2. What are some American endurance sports idols? Have you raced for any of these?
3. What are the consequences of racing for idols?