Many traps appear when you’re underperforming. Think about where your heart and mind wander during a losing streak. It’s all about performance, right? More film, increased reps in the weight room, better game plans. Those are good for tactical and physical development, but what about deeper issues? If your team doesn’t trust one another, tweaking the practice plan won’t fix breakdowns in core beliefs.
Where does your heart and mind wander when you’re in a losing streak in life? For some, it’s comparison. Why do other people seem to have it so smooth (especially those that don’t follow Jesus)? Others battle resignation—they slowly move away from God and pursue worldly attempts to fill the voids in their hearts. And then some double down especially with more “religious” duties. Yet, none of these get deep enough to touch the breakdowns in your core beliefs.
Many embrace the lie that following Jesus results in a care-free, smooth life. However, Jesus guaranteed this wouldn’t happen when He affirmed, “You will have suffering in this world,” (John 16:33). When life hits you hard, have you stopped to consider that it may not be about “performing” better? If God is passionately committed to your transformation, then difficult seasons of life can actually catalyze deeper change in you—if you embrace it. Your spiritual growth is directly linked to the degree in which you stay connected to Jesus.
Jesus calls His followers to be rooted in Him. Bearing fruit (external) is only possible when you’re connected to Him as the Branch (internal). Root always precedes fruit. When your life unites deeper and deeper to Jesus, your life will be reoriented, reformed, and renewed.You will put off your old self—your previous habits, patterns, and beliefs—and embrace your new self in Christ to be the person God made you to be. The inner work of the Holy Spirit can cultivate more Christ-like fruit in your life, marriage, and coaching—no matter what season of life you find yourself.
Before you share all the ways you want your spouse to change, consider how God is inviting you to this transformational journey. When it comes to your faith, Greater Performance is never about trying harder and doing more; instead, it’s about deeper surrender wherever you find yourself right now. God can work through your difficulties, but you need to allow Him to work in you along the way.
Will you allow God to reveal what’s under the surface? Can you trust Him to expose breakdowns in your core beliefs? Do you trust Him enough to let go of your old self and embrace the new?
When it comes to your faith, now is the time to let go of your attempts to perform and receive the performance of the One who empowers you, strengthens you, and stays with you each step of the way.
Answer these individually and share your thoughts with each other:
How do you and your spouse cope?
Are you trying to figure out life and marriage on your own?
Have you considered what God may be doing in you through these challenges?
How is God working in you and your spouse to take you to a deeper dependence and surrender to Him?