I’ve never been a boxer—well, not an actual one. But I have put on some boxing gloves and whacked away at a punching bag. It’s good exercise, and there’s something satisfying about using such force on something without risk of breaking it or hurting anyone. I’ve received the benefit of boxing—strength, agility, and reduced stress—without every having to step into the ring.
Unfortunately, this great physical practice doesn’t translate well in our spiritual lives. We often go through the exercises of prayer, Bible study, and fellowship to receive their enormous benefits, but without ever actually stepping “into the ring.” We put a lot of effort into building ourselves up and not nearly as much pouring ourselves out.
The Christian life has lots of personal benefits, but that’s not the ultimate goal. We are designed to be both servants and influencers of others—to take our training into the world for its benefit. “Self-actualization” is not our purpose. “Kingdom-actualization” is. Take whatever gifts and training God has given you and put them to use. Whatever it takes, step into the ring.
