At the moment of truth, you will not rise to the level of expectation, but will fall to the level of training. (Archilochus, 7th century B.C. Greek lyric poet)

Sometimes in our ambition to succeed, we fall prey to unrealistic expectations. We hope to accomplish some great feat. We think we can do it by brute strength or innate abilities. To ensure success, however, there is nothing more effective than adequate training—preparation that will enable us to do what we set out to do.

Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly (1 Timothy 4:7).