Move Those Chains

Every time my family goes to a Baltimore Ravens football game we get caught up in signaling and chanting “Move those chains!” every time the Ravens get a first down. At first glance you might think, ‘big deal…they moved the ball ten yards.” But first downs lead to touchdowns.

The player or team that practices, prepares, and performs with the most consistency generally outplays their opponent. And when we “move the chains”, we create and sustain momentum. Consistency leads to excellence and is fueled by self-discipline.

What we do today determines who we become tomorrow. Moving the chains simply means that you will consistently do what it takes to reach your goal. It means doing the little things. It means doing the hard things – even when you want to quit, even when you don’t feel like it, and even when you can’t see the results.

As competitors, we know how to train consistently and put in the practice time necessary to get better. Shortcuts and compromises don't work. But do we apply that same diligence in our spiritual life. Do we train ourselves in godliness? Or are we hit-and-miss? If we continue to pursue God and spend time seeking Him daily we will become more and more like Jesus.

God rewards us when we seek Him. A consistent life leads to both internal transformation and external influence. So let’s strive to take action and do the little things that lead to excellence. Let’s move those chains.