Much Needed StrengthSample

Golden Opportunity

Ready: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”—Philippians 4:13 NKVJ

Set: In the Bible, God tells us we have to work, even if what we want is not going to happen right away. You have to put your pride aside and let God’s plan come through. 

I finished fifth in the women's shot put at the 2012 London Olympics, but I still considered it a victory because my faith grew. 

Throughout my career, I've had to learn to accept myself, whether I was healthy or not, like when I had a herniated disc in my back just months before the 2016 Summer Olympics. Instead of losing faith, I asked God questions: “Lord, what are You trying to show me? What are You doing, because I don’t understand?”

I trusted God. 

Before my final throw, I was in second place. I remember the throw felt good. Once my mark was displayed on the scoreboard, I couldn’t believe it. It was the furthest I’d ever thrown: 20.63 meters. My dream of winning the gold medal had come true, and I praised God.

Everything I had been through and worked for was worth it. I know God allowed me to have this medal, and with it I want to glorify Him and point others to Him.—USA Track and Field's Michelle Carter

Go:

1. What do you have to work hard for right now to get to where you want to be in the future?
2. How can you ask God to strengthen your faith as you work and wait?
3. In what ways can you trust God a little deeper? 

Workout: 

• Nehemiah 8:10
• Psalm 28:7
• Isaiah 40:31

Overtime: Sometimes, it is hard to keep working when I don’t see results as soon as I’d like. That’s the same with faith when I keep being faithful in the day-to-day living while waiting on You. Help me to trust that You are at work and that Your joy can give me strength to keep going. Amen.