FCA: The Undefeated Devotional For CompetitorsSample

Faith Wins
Rex Stump

READY:
“‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ Jesus answered. ‘This came about so that God’s works might be displayed in him.’” – John 9:3

SET:
In sports, only so many teams achieve winning records and championships each year. While these teams thrive, others seem to be marked by bad days and tough defeats. So where is God?

One day as Jesus and His disciples came across a man born blind. Thinking his condition was caused by sin, the disciples asked Jesus if the man or his parents had done the wrong. But Jesus told them that no one’s sins caused the blindness. Instead, He reminded them that God was at work—that the man was born blind so God’s power could be revealed through him. That all came to light when Jesus healed the man and showed God’s miraculous intervention. What appeared to be something bad became something incredible!

Why do athletes fail? I don’t know the answer. But I do know that even in defeat, God can use a seemingly bad situation to display His power. He’s revealed when we choose to have a good attitude and keep trying. He’s revealed when we maintain our sportsmanship and don’t cut down our opponents after a game. He’s glorified when we encourage our teammates and help them find Him in the midst of disappointment. That wouldn’t happen if we won every game.

Life and sports don’t always make sense. Sometimes we win; sometimes we lose. But when we let God dictate our actions and attitudes—even in bad situations—we can trust that He’ll turn something bad into something incredible.

GO:
1. What’s your attitude when you have a bad day in sports?
2. When have you seen God turn something bad into something good?
3. How can Jesus use your bad moments for His glory?

WORKOUT:
Isaiah 14:26-27
Jeremiah 29:10-12
1 Corinthians 1:18-30

OVERTIME:
Heavenly Father, I need help trusting You, especially on bad days. Help me maintain my faith and let You reveal Your power in my weaknesses. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.