On February 7, 2021, quarterback Tom Brady made history when at 43, he secured his seventh Lombardi Trophy, two more than any player in NFL history and as the oldest to do so. Back in 2014, many questioned just how long then-37-year-old Tom Brady could continuing playing pro football. Feeling insulted, the quarterback replied, “When I suck, I’ll retire,” he said. “But I don’t plan on sucking for a long time.” In the years that followed, the wins continued, and people started asking the secret of his success.

There are countless articles crediting everything from diets, exercise, supplements, lifestyle, etc. The consistent overwhelming factor in all of those things appears to be Tom’s intense discipline and focus. TB12 CEO John Burns says, “Tom’s sustained success over the past 20-plus years is a testament to his incredible drive and his meticulous approach to everything he does.” Burns said. “It’s that mindset that allows him to keep going.”

Now, even after his seventh win, Brady shows no sign of slowing down any time soon in a sport where longevity is rare. Shortly after the victory and the celebrations were over, Tom and the team were immediately back working at winning another Super Bowl.

His story reminds me of how we can also experience victories in life when we practice self-discipline—making the “Formidable Five” a consistent staple in life will yield great rewards in the long run. These spiritual disciplines are Reflection, Prayer, Meditation, Solitude, and Fasting. Incorporating at least Reflection, Prayer, Meditation into your daily life will produce dramatic results. Don’t delay; your legacy starts today.

Daily Directive:

Answer and Journal the Following

Read:

Read and meditate on 1 Timothy 4:7–8.

Pray:

Pray for the strength and commitment to practice the spiritual disciplines consistently.

Meditate / Make It Real:

Continue to meditate on the verse and decide how you will start practicing at least three spiritual disciplines today. What is your plan? Be specific.

Share / Show:

Share and show what you’ve learned with someone else.