The eighth inning is here and that means the game is close to being over. Close is the key word here because as they say, “It’s not over till it’s over.” When there are two innings yet to play anything can still happen and often does.
Baseball – Earnings:
There is no doubt about it, baseball players at the major league level do make a lot of money. Their earning potential does have a relatively small window of time though, and only the very best players make the really big bucks.
Life – Earnings:
In life there is a wide variety of income levels that we could talk about. Instead of discussing monetary earnings in life however, we are going to check-out the eternal earnings:
James 1:12 (ESV)
12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (ESV)
17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, 19 thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
1 Corinthians 2:9 (ESV)
9 But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—
Baseball – Must be in shape:
For baseball players as in any sporting endeavor, the individual must be in good physical shape. Weight lifting, stretching, running and other forms of exercise must be a part of the daily routine if a player desires to compete at the highest level possible.
Life – Must be in shape:
For a person to compete at the highest level in life, their physical body must be in good shape just as with a baseball player. The spiritual self must also be maintained at a high level to achieve success in life. I know you are waiting to see what the Bible has to say about Spiritual fitness, so here it goes:
John 6:63 (ESV)
63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.
Jude 1:20-21 (ESV)
20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)
16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
We get in spiritual shape by reading the word of God, and talking with Him continually in prayer! Praise the Lord!