The Olympics are coming! As I write, the opening ceremonies are only 11 days away. It’s still difficult to comprehend that such a world-class event is coming to our backyard.

What’s even more amazing is that my wife and I will be in Whistler to take in four events. I can’t wait to absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of Whistler during this time, but also to see world-class athletes at the top of their game.

Few will know the kind of discipline involved in reaching the pinnacle of any sport. Some of us might go to the gym a few days each week; we might play hockey or curl or walk a few days of the week. But not many of us can identify with the hourly discipline and the years of sacrifice it takes for these athletes to attain such levels.

The pay-off is noticeable: fit bodies, and for a select few the ultimate reward — an Olympic medal.

I wonder, if we stop to consider the value of such training, what does it benefit one?

God spoke these words through Paul, a biblical writer: “while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”

Think about the truthfulness of those words.

Bodily training is of some value — a fit body, a strong heart, possibly a longer life, maybe an Olympic medal or two. But all that discipline, all that sacrifice, and all that training is only good for this life. Tragically for some, a focus on bodily training keeps them from thinking about godliness.

Godliness — a life characterized by seeking and living for God — on the other hand, is good for both this life and the life to come.

There is nothing more important in life than considering one’s relationship with God, for a relationship with God makes a difference.

While that is true, it appears there are many more people in gyms and arenas, soccer fields and on ski mountains, volleyball courts and tennis clubs, fitness and diet centers, training and honing their bodies, than there are people looking to learn about God and what it means to seek and live for him.

As you get ready to watch the Olympics and to admire their dedication, remember that there is a pursuit that is far more important the any sport or fitness regime: the pursuit of godliness.