Ready:
“I rise before dawn and cry out for help; I put my hope in your word.” – Psalm 119:147
Set:
What would you say you “have to have” as an athlete or coach in order to compete the way you desire? You might reply that you need a great coach or wise mentor you can come to anytime for help. Or maybe you have to have access to particular resources or equipment so you or your players can train and improve. Every athlete and coach depends on certain people or things to make the progress they want to make.
If your desire is to glorify Jesus in how you live and compete, there is a more foundational “have to have.” Christ-honoring athletes and coaches depend on the Bible. In Psalm 119, the psalmist expresses an ongoing awareness of his need for God’s Word. In v. 147 when he cries out for help, he recognizes where his hope is found: in God’s Word.
As the psalmist depends on God’s Word, he receives so much in return, such as:
comfort: “This is my comfort in my affliction: Your promise has given me life.” (v. 50)
wisdom: “Your command makes me wiser than my enemies, for it is always with me.” (v. 98)
guidance: “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path.” (v. 105)
protection: “You are my shelter and my shield; I put my hope in your word.” (v. 114)
peace and confidence: “Abundant peace belongs to those who love your instruction; nothing makes them stumble.” (v. 165)
As an athlete or coach, you regularly encounter situations in which you need each of these things. The Bible provides these because it addresses our foundational needs: to know who God is and what God is like; to know how we can have life in relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ; and to understand God’s design for how we live for Him in every situation as we trust Christ. God reveals himself and His heart through His Word.
Like the psalmist in Psalm 119, recognize that God’s Word is your “have to have” for everything you need to be who God calls you to be. Depend on the Bible to direct your mindset so you can stay Christ-focused. Depend on the Bible to shape your character and values. Depend on the Bible to show you how to approach relating to teammates or those you coach. Depend on the Bible to determine the ultimate purpose you pursue day by day.
Go:
What things do you need to turn away from depending on so that your trust is fully in God’s Word?
What practical steps can you take to help you daily listen to God as He speaks through His Word?
Workout:
Overtime:
“Lord, I am grateful that I can depend upon You and Your Word. I pray for greater awareness of my need for You in all things. My hope is in You and what You speak through Your Word. Amen.”