Inspirational Devotional for Athletes and Life

"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." -Philippians 3:13b-14

What are athletes without goals? Goals are obstacles that help us reach higher levels of ability. In Philippians 3:14, Paul says we should keep running for the goal God has for us. In doing this, we all must lean on the Lord to know where we are going.

There are two important elements for athletes who are trying to achieve their goals: focus and perseverance. Focus is "a state or condition permitting clear perception or understanding." That focus has to be steered in the right direction in order for them to reach their goals and, above all, God's will for their life. The second element, perseverance, is what I like to call "the ability to not quit, and to keep on going with a greater drive than you think you have." Perseverance is often a sown seed. As Paul states later in his letter, "If you don't give up you will reap a harvest in God's timing." When put into action, perseverance gives life to character; character to hope and hope in Christ.

In sports, athletes mess up, hit hurdles, overshoot goals, miss the ball, foul out and fall down. I've seen many athletes get their minds stuck on one error and not let it go. But we can't keep dwelling on our mistakes or they will keep replaying in our minds until they are all we see.

Today, when you feel like the devil is getting a foothold in your life and trying to pull you down in your attitude so that you can't glorify the Lord, just remember to fix your eyes on Jesus. He is your Audience of One, and He doesn't care if you mess up as long as you give your all for Him. Don't forget what the Lord said in His Word, that He is making all things new! Look forward to your goal, forget past mistakes and look for a new opportunity to come to you. When it does, you'll be game ready for Christ, giving all the glory to your Maker!