G.O.A.T

Over 30 years ago, Muhammad Ali referred to himself as “the Greatest”. His wife later added “Of All Time” – which became known by the acronym: “the G.O.A.T.” Since then, the abbreviation has been used to describe exceptional athletes, musicians, rappers, and other popular figures. There are even G.O.A.T. foods! However, the superlative is flawed.

For one, it is specific to a respective field; Serena Williams – tennis, Michael Jordan – basketball, Michael Phelps- swimming, Mariano Rivera -relief pitcher etc. There are no crossover G.O.A.T.s.

Additionally, the title itself is subjective. For example, is Tom Brady, or Joe Montana, or Peyton Manning the NFL’s G.O.A.T. quarterback? It may depend on which part of the country you hail from, which organization you work for, or which team you follow. While it may appear unbiased, G.O.A.T. ranking is not truly objective.

The title G.O.A.T is also not permanent. One may be considered the G.O.A.T. until they get out-goat-ted. In fact, the term itself is somewhat misleading – “of all time?” You may be the G.O.A.T in that moment, or in that season, until someone surpasses your greatness.

Of course the title expresses achievement and ability, not necessarily moral character. One can be a G.O.A.T on the field, but a “dog” off the court. (Explanation not needed) Should one’s personal life be left off the weight scale of greatness? Some would argue yes, while others consider G.O.A.T.-ness a package deal.

Lest I appear to be a G.O.A.T. disparager – I join the masses who are in awe of these super-stars; they were not handed the title, they earned it. I applaud their perseverance, personal sacrifice, combined with their extraordinary ability. Hats off to G.O.A.T.’s everywhere!

So why the G.O.A.T. blog? As humans, we have a G.O.A.T. propensity – they are our heroes; people we esteem. They are able to achieve what we always wanted to do, but couldn’t. That’s why we classify them as super-humans.  Truth be told, this can lead to G.O.A.T. envy. Why couldn’t I be that person? Remember, as G.O.A.T as one appears to be, no one really measures up to the title.

What if there was a TRUE G.O.A.T? THE Greatest in ALL things, not subject to being outdone, timeless, faultless, truly worthy of all honor and praise. There is! This is how Moses described God:

“I will proclaim the name of the Lord.

Oh, praise the greatness of our God!

4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect,

and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong,

upright and just is he.”

– Deuteronomy 32:3-4

As I stated earlier, we tend to pedestal achievement, knowledge, success, fame and fortune. Save your adulation for God.

“Lord, there is no one like you!

For you are great, and your name is full of power.”

– Jeremiah 10:16

G.O.A.T.s may be worthy of acclaim, but God alone, in words of Oswald Chambers deserves “our utmost for his highest”

-Nicholas