“I was telling myself 20 times a hole (to) keep my focus, keep my focus, keep my focus,” Michael Campbell said, “and it worked.” Michael Campbell began the final round of the 2005 U.S. Open at Pinehurst four shots behind the leader. However, he was one of only four golfers who shot under par on the final day, while those atop the leader board crumbled, giving him a two-shot victory over Tiger Woods.

Campbell’s focus on the golf course paid off—to the tune of $1.17 million. “I worked really hard for this, ups and downs from my whole career,” Campbell said. “But it’s worth the work. It’s just amazing.”

The word “focus” can be defined as “a state or condition permitting clear perception or understanding. Whether it is sports or life that we are talking about, our ability to stay focused on the right things can dramatically affect the direction we go. If our desire is to compete for Christ, then our focus must be fixed squarely on Him in all aspects of competition. On the other hand, if our focus is not on Him, our competition is meaningless.

Today, may you be completely focused on Christ and on accomplishing His plan for you—both in and out of competition.