StrongSample

  

Higher Mindset

Sarah Rennicke

Ready:

“Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.” Colossians 3:2

Set:

Our minds are beautiful things. They analyze, conclude, process and feel. They push us through incredible hardships, and set a determination if we’re in a challenging workout or submerged in tough competition. It’s amazing how much we can power through by perseverance of will. We often pride ourselves on mental toughness, which comes in handy in the heat of the game and can get us out of impossible jams, like 3rd and 15 with 40 seconds left and down by a field goal, or bases loaded with nobody out. 

But our minds can sometimes be a roadblock in faith. Once we fix our minds on setbacks, failures, and struggles, too often we sink into what could have been, instead of what could yet be.

If we fall into the lies of coaches, parents, and teammates telling us we’re no good or will never amount to anything, those words will swirl around our heads, no matter what positives are said. An attitude of defeat isn’t easy to overcome, but that’s where we remember the victory has already been won through Christ. Who He says we are can do more for our spirit’s renewal than our brain ever could. If we capture our thoughts and give them to God, He molds a higher mindset that hinges on the hope to come. We can take small steps to shift our thinking pattern and be renewed so that we are free to see our minds as His gift to us for His glory.

Go:

1. How has your mind been a roadblock in your sport and faith?

2. In what ways can you change your thinking habits?

3. Name three truths out loud about who you are as God’s child.

  

Overtime:

It’s so easy to be bogged down by negative thoughts and get discouraged. Thank You for giving me victory in Your truth. Help me to focus on a higher calling than simply the here and now. Amen.