With more sports scheduled to return in the coming months, one key element to keep an eye on is how out of shape or in shape the athletes are.

NBA players, for instance, were in the middle of their season before going on hiatus. Now, they have to get themselves back into game shape during a time of the year where they’re normally off. They will be expected to get back into peak shape with the playoffs quickly approaching.

So how hard will it be for players to drop the weight they packed on while being at home? How much has their time away from team facilities, trainers, and coaches caused them to get off track or develop bad habits?

The problem with players being out of shape and returning to full speed action is the concern for an increased chance of injuries. If players are carrying extra weight and also not in good mental shape because of the layoff, they run the risk of hurting themselves or someone else.

Plus, they are returning to a whole new NBA inside the “bubble” in Orlando with no fans and many other changes. Players are going to have to embrace a new approach and perspective as they get back on the court.

As we consider the importance of players being in shape and not carrying extra weight while embarking on this new version of the NBA, let’s unpack how this parallels our journey as followers of Jesus.

When He gives us a new life in Him, we can leave the old behind while letting go of anything that used to weigh us down. We no longer have to carry the weight of bitterness, unforgiveness, jealousy, or shame.

The problem is, however, if we are hanging onto sin or clinging to our past it will lead to us being “out of shape,” which can result in hurting ourselves or others.

The following verses encourage us to “drop the weight”:

Hebrews 12:1 (NLT) says, “…let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.”

Ephesians 4:21-24 (NLT) reminds us that “Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from Him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.”

Just like the NBA players, we have to ask ourselves if we are in shape or out of shape…and if we’re willing to drop the unnecessary weight that slows us down and puts us at risk of injury.

We can’t embrace the new mindsets and drop the sins weighing us down unless we’re surrendered to the fresh start Jesus gives us and we’re relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to renew our thoughts. It’s in Christ we find freedom from the weight of our past and the ability to be “in shape” to run well when we’re out on the court.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

 

1. What “extra weight” have you been carrying around lately?

2. Why is it so dangerous to be “out of shape” with the added weight of bitterness, jealously, and unforgiveness?