The legendary footballer, Cristiana Ronaldo, caused some stir just before his country’s opening game at Euro 2020. It was at a press conference ahead of the game. The hall of the conference was neatly arranged. Coca-Cola, one of the sponsors of the game, had their products conspicuously placed on the table. As soon as Ronaldo took his seat, he shoved aside two bottles of Coca-Cola in front of him. Instead, he raised a bottle of water and spoke in Portuguese, “Drink water”. Those who know him well would tell you that the snub was not some publicity stunt. When it comes to what he eats and drink, plus physical exercise, he is a maverick. His eating pattern is such as can only promote the healthiest frame. No wonder he is still performing in the elite class of football at an age when many of his colleagues have since retired.
So believers should go beyond what is lawful to what is profitable. Looking ahead to the reward of God in the new earth, we must strive to lay aside not just sin but every weight that may negatively impact us.
Apostle Paul gave us insight into the life of athletes. Those who are well-meaning and hope for laurels among them give up so many things. They give up some food and other physical conveniences. They delay gratification of certain human desires, including raising a family. They do all these to wear medals that are prone to destruction. The reasoning of Paul is that whatever sacrifice we are called to make is eternally more rewarding than what the best athlete hope to have. Millions of people across the world drink Coca-Cola, because it is not contraband. One man, however, found it injurious to his body and the bigger goal of being able to perform professionally for a long time. So believers should go beyond what is lawful to what is profitable. Looking ahead to the reward of God in the new earth, we must strive to lay aside not just sin but every weight that may negatively impact us.