Ready:
“Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.” – John 14:27
Set:
As an athlete or coach, the demands of your sport can feel relentless and stressful. Life can be this way as well. Yet Jesus in John 14:27 promises to give His peace to His followers. How is this possible—especially during intense seasons?
According to Galatians 5:22-23, as the Lord through His Spirit is growing us in spiritual maturity, we will be increasingly marked by certain qualities: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Just as Jesus promised, one of these qualities is peace. The meaning of “peace” is captured in the Hebrew word shalom. It goes beyond the absence of conflict or stress. Shalom carries the idea of experiencing well-being, flourishing, and harmony in all areas of our life.
What is the path to shalom? Choosing to trust Jesus, who is called the “Prince of Peace (Shalom)” in Isaiah 9:6. Peace comes as we willingly surrender to Jesus’ reign as the sovereign King over every dimension of our life. Even when circumstances are stressful and the responsibilities of being an athlete or coach feel relentless, the Lord is in control. He is always working for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28). We flourish as we recognize that life and wholeness are a gift from Christ (John 10:10). The fleeting experiences of the world, including things like sports success or comfortable circumstances, cannot give lasting peace. Only trusting Jesus can.
The Lord wants you to experience the peace of mind and heart He gives. The Spirit is doing this work in you as you respond by releasing control to Christ and trusting Him. May you compete and live with the shalom promised by Jesus.
Go:
In what areas are you currently struggling with a lack of peace?
As you trust Jesus and His Spirit’s work to give you peace, what difference would this make in how you approach your sport and other areas of your life?
Workout:
Overtime:
“Lord Jesus, I praise You because You are the Prince of Peace. I trust You and Your reign over all. I look to You for the peace You promise through Your Spirit’s work in me. I know You bring true flourishing as I rest in You. Amen.”