Seven Fears Athletes Face; Seven Truths God Gives Sample

Fear of Being Judged

Ready: They kept demanding an answer, so He stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”  – John 8:7 (NLT)

Set: We wonder how we measure up, if all our effort is making a difference, and if those whom we hold in high regard are pleased. Whether we are aware or not, our parents, coaches, teammates, and friends impact our assessment of talent and play. We can get caught up in what our coach is thinking as we’re in the middle of the game, distracting us from being 100% in the moment, and tightening us up rather than allowing us freedom to have fun while playing.

But who is judging? Who or what are you comparing yourself to, and where is your focus? This quick act of wondering what others are thinking shifts the focus off the present and warps us into things that aren’t even really happening in the moment.

Here’s the truth: God’s approval is the only approval you need.

And the great news is that God already approves! You are the apple of His eye and are hidden in the shadow of His wing. He looks upon you with favor and gives you peace. You are His beloved, you are chosen, and you are set apart. Believe it. Rest in His words.

There’s no need to have our eyes stray off His face and get ourselves tangled in false notions of what others say. God loves and cares about us unconditionally, and what He thinks of us is what matters. We can relax in Him, which emboldens us to play relaxed and stress free, and have our concentration be on the game without wonder or worry. 

Go:

1. Who or what are you comparing yourself to?

2. What keeps you from seeking the approval of God alone?

3. What do you need to remind yourself about God’s care today?

Workout: 

Psalm 17:8

Luke 6:37

John 3:17

Overtime: “I am often caught up in worrying about what others think of me, how I am doing in their eyes, and what I need to do for their approval. You have set me apart, and You already say I am enough. I want to keep my eyes focused on You, and hide Your truth in my heart, and play only for You. Amen.”