The Beautiful Game

Nº 233

weekly devotions to refresh your soul by Dr. Dan Bolin - January 17, 2023

If a man does not exercise his arm he develops no biceps muscle; and if a man does not exercise his soul, he acquires no muscle in his soul, no strength of character, no vigor of moral fiber, nor beauty of Spiritual growth. - Henry Drummond

On December 29, 2022, soccer superstar Pelé passed away. Many remember him as the greatest soccer player to ever thrill a crowd. His speed, skill, grace, and creativity made him a living legend. In 1999, the International Olympic Committee named him the Athlete of the Century!

Growing up in poverty near Sao Palo, Brazil, Pelé could not afford a soccer ball, so at times, he would practice with a grapefruit or sack filled with socks and rags. Using his God-given talents, working tirelessly, and practicing his craft, he quickly ascended the upper echelons of the soccer world. At 17, he became the youngest player to participate in a World Cup final and the youngest to score a goal.

One of Pelé's many quotable sayings is, “Everything is practice.” His elegant, fluid, powerful style emerged as he worked hard and developed his amazing gift.

Paul told young Timothy, “Do not neglect the gift you have . . . Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress. Keep close watch on yourself and on the teaching.” (I Timothy 4:14-16a)



The character of our lives and the content of our beliefs and teaching both require ongoing practice, practice, practice.

Dan Bolin

Author & President

Refueling in Flight Ministries, Inc.