Wisdom for Sports Parents From the Old TestamentIhe Atụ

Losing Is a Part of the Game

In the world of sports, just as in the journey of life, encountering setbacks and defeats is inevitable. Psalm 37:23-24 offers great insight for young athletes and their parents, highlighting that although we may stumble or face defeat, these moments do not define our journey or its outcome. This scripture does not reassure us of victory in the conventional sense; it promises God’s unwavering support and presence, even in our lowest points.

The ability to rise after a fall, to glean lessons from loss, helps us practice the virtues of perseverance and resilience. This devotional delves into the importance of our responses to defeat, emphasizing that falling isn’t failing—it’s an opportunity for growth underpinned by divine support.

Psalm 37 encourages us to look beyond the immediate disappointment of defeat, suggesting that even in our failures, we are held securely in God’s powerful hand. This shift in perspective moves the focus from the outcome to the growth and recovery process, viewing setbacks not as endpoints but as integral parts of a larger, God-ordained journey.

As we all know, mistakes are part of the game—missed shots, dropped passes, or tactical errors. However, these moments don’t have to culminate in a sense of defeat. Instead, they can transform into opportunities for learning and leaning more into God’s strength and guidance. The assurance that “though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down” (Psalm 37:24) serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that our setbacks are never final as long as we trust in God’s support.

Challenge your reactions to defeat. This devotional is an invitation to recognize that while the outcome of a game may be beyond our control, our response to it is not. When we rise after a fall or learn from each setback, we demonstrate the resilience and perseverance that define true champions.

By encouraging our children to view every challenge on and off the field as an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient, we help them understand that their worth is not measured by their performance but by their character and their capacity to overcome adversity. Today, start a conversation about a recent setback, exploring how it can serve as a foundation for greater understanding, strength, and reliance on God.