David Epstein in his popular book, The Sports Gene, reports the discovery of a gene located on chromosome two, that seems to intentionally limit muscle growth, so that the bone-to-muscle ratio in the human body can stay in the normal range during the advance of years. He tells also of some sportspeople who are attempting to eradicate the protein associated with this gene, in order to release the brake on muscle growth, to reach for unfair advantage over their competitors.

But God installed no such limiter-gene or restraining-protein on our spirit; but rather the opposite, namely the capacity to grow, and to grow big. This is actually Paul’s prayer for the church: “I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

There are people in this world who are born with either low levels, or even the absence, of the limiter-protein. They are referred to as superbabies, who can sometimes become super athletes. But all who are born of the Spirit of God have the opportunity to become super saints – muscular and ripped – not with mere flesh, nor for show nor competition – but with spiritual strength, for gripping the gospel tightly and for shining their faith brightly.