BUTCH: Grandpa!! (excited) Our school is sponsoring a big race, and I'm going to run in it!

GRANDPA: You'd better slow down, or you'll be worn out before the race starts.

BUTCH: It's in four weeks and first prize is $20. That would buy lots of candy.

GRANDPA: If you are serious about running, you'd better cut down on junk foods.

BUTCH: Do you think so?

GRANDPA: I ran a few races in my college days, and I remember the coach emphasizing the importance of a good diet.

BUTCH: You know, Grandpa, my gym teacher said the same thing and I guess I see his point now. But how can I even live without candy bars and sodas and taco chips for 4 whole weeks?

GRANDPA: I think you gym teacher is right too.

BUTCH: But couldn't I have them once in a while?

GRANDPA: I think you are looking at it the wrong way.

BUTCH: Really?

GRANDPA: There's no law against a runner eating junk food before the race. It's just that if you are really serious about winning, you'll cut out anything that doesn't help you reach your goal.

BUTCH: I really do want to win that race. I guess candy and snacks aren't as important to me as the prize. There's really no sense running if I don't do everything I can to try to win.

GRANDPA: That is an important truth and it can be applied to spiritual things too.

BUTCH: Spiritual things?

GRANDPA: Yes. I can remember hearing you complain because you can't do some of the things your unsaved friends do.

BUTCH: That's right, I have.

GRANDPA: But, Butch, if we really want to reach the goal -- that of becoming like Jesus and serving Him -- we won't mind doing without a few harmful or unnecessary activities in order to please the Lord.

BUTCH: I see what you mean, I need to start being serious about serving the Lord as I am about winning that race!

GRANDPA: How about you, boys and girls? Are there things that keep you from doing your best in your Christian 'race'?

BUTCH: Are there places you want to go? TV programs you want to watch? Some things may not in themselves be sinful, but if they keep you from serving the Lord, they're wrong for you.

GRANDPA: Make up your mind to get serious about serving God. Put away those things that get in the way. See you later boys and girls.

BUTCH: Thanks, Grandpa. Bye boys and girls.