Strength in Weakness
So because of Christ, I am pleased in weaknesses, in insults, in catastrophes, in persecutions, and in pressures. For when I am weak, then I am strong.–2 Corinthians 12:10
As athletes, pride can be a huge issue. Confidence is one thing, but pride is another. If you think you’re all that and you don’t need anybody or anything and you’re the greatest gift the world has seen—this is just my opinion, but I think it’s a cover for an emptiness inside that people either shut away and don’t acknowledge or they are in denial. People have coping mechanisms that they start to develop from their childhoods in order to get through different situations in life. People who believe they are everything unto themselves oftentimes have a huge hole deep down inside that they’re trying to fill themselves. Sadness and insecurity probably go along with that too. There’s a freedom in being able to reach out to others in your own weakness, though. That’s exactly what God calls us to do. He wants us to bring our weakness. He wants us to come to Him and He will give us strength. He is the gift of life. So you don’t have to rely on yourself. It doesn’t take as much energy to get through life and you have a brighter perspective.
1. As an athlete, what are some of your strengths? What are some of your weaknesses?
2. In what ways do you try to compensate for those weaknesses?
3. What do you think it means in 2 Corinthians 12:10 when Paul wrote, “For when I am weak, then I am strong?” How has that translated into your athletic career? How about as a Christian?
1 Corinthians 1:26-30; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10;
Lord, root out any pride or insecurities from my heart. Help me accept the fact that only You can turn my weakness into strength. Amen.