Preseason: a time of intense workouts, two-a-days, ice baths, and maximum exertion!

Fall sports are just now emerging from this intense time. Great teams are being forged through the crucible of preseason and are getting ready to run the gauntlet of the regular season. But as tough as those preseason workouts may be, there is one day that athletes dread even more: the day the cuts are made.

As an athlete, I remember the rapid heartbeat in my chest, the doubts and anxiety, the holding in of my breath as I walked into the locker room to see if my name was on a list. I dreaded the voice of the coach saying, “Son, step into my office.” But, on the flipside, it was always such a great experience if I did make the cut and saw the diligence pay off!

As coaches, this is one of the toughest times of the year for us, as well. Sometimes we have to turn away an athlete we really enjoy personally who lacks a critical skill we need for the team. Many people today argue against cuts. I, for one, believe they are necessary and teach valuable lessons to both those who make the cut and those who do not. Throughout the process, athletes learn lessons about diligence, perseverance, making the most of opportunities, and so many others.

When it comes to “making the cut,” we can learn a more important lesson by applying the concept spiritually. Someday, each of us will stand before the Lord and give an account for our lives. Jesus warns again and again that there will be a cut. In Matthew 7:19 (NIV), He said, “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” In John 15, He challenged the disciples by telling them that anyone who didn’t abide in Him would be cast out as a withered branch.

So, how does one abide in Christ? How does one bear the “good fruit” of the Father and make the spiritual cut? Jesus describes such a person in a variety of verses. In Matthew 25:31-46, for instance, we learn that we bear fruit when we care for the “least of these.” In John 15:10, He makes it clear what is necessary for abiding in Him, and that is keeping His commands. Ultimately, however, it all boils down to accepting Christ as Savior and letting Him become the Lord of our lives. That is the ultimate answer to making the spiritual cut.

Today, if you want to make God’s cut, believe in Christ, obey His commands and love others! When the list is posted, you’ll surely see your name on His eternal spiritual roster.