Traits That Make Athletes GreatSample

Tiger Woods And Overcoming

In April 2019, Tiger Woods made headlines by becoming the second-oldest winner in the history of the Masters.

But what made his victory even more remarkable was the roller-coaster journey he had taken to win the tournament.

After dominating the PGA Tour early in his career, Woods tore his ACL during a historic winning performance at the US Open in 2008.

Things would continue to get worse from there, as he went through a series of injuries, surgeries, and personal issues that caused him to fall out of prominence for nearly a decade.

While this was happening, Woods had the option to either give up or overcome the pain and criticism.

Ultimately, he kept going, and that perseverance paid off with Woods winning his 15th major tournament.

Tiger Woods is an inspirational example of an overcomer, and we can certainly be motivated by his story.

But as rewarding as it is for us to overcome injuries and failures, these are only temporary accomplishments.

There are much greater obstacles we must face and consider: sin, death, and our eternal destination.

The truth is, we can’t overcome the punishment of sin through hard work and perseverance.

The only way to overcome hell and eternal separation from God is through the grace of Jesus Christ. It’s only through Him, His death, and His resurrection that we become true overcomers.

Jesus gives us this hope in John 16:33, “...In the world, you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous; I have overcome the world.”

1 John 5:4-5 says, “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except for the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?”

As sports fans, we can admire Tiger Woods for his resilience, but let’s be filled with joy that there is only One who overcame the whole world and defeated death. Through Him, we too, are eternal overcomers!

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I need Your strength and power to overcome the obstacles I face in my life, but I know they’re only temporary. Thank you for the grace You’ve shown me through Jesus. I know it’s because of Him I’ve overcome the eternal separation I once had with You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.