StrongSample

Can I do everything?

Clay Elliott

Ready: 

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

Set: 

In high school I had a number of athletic goals. At the top of my list was to get a hit off Sandy Wihtol in baseball. I never came close. The “man” just flat out overmatched me every time. By the end of my high school career I just wanted to put the ball in play against him. Sad to say, I didn’t reach that goal either. 

Have you ever heard, “You can do anything you put your mind to”? I hear inspirational speakers and authors, coaches, and even parents hype us up with this quip all the time. Even two-time NBA MVP Steph Curry has written the “I can do all things” statement on his shoes as he competes. Look what he has accomplished! So it must be possible to do everything…right?

Well, let me try to set the record straight here as best I can. First off—our initial goal should be to lean into a full-surrender relationship with Christ for the strength to do everything. Secondly—the “everything” that Christ wants us to do is not based on what we want to accomplish, but what He wants to accomplish to and through us. 

Practically speaking, God’s ultimate goal for me is not to “win” or “get a hit,” but rather to have me compete at the top of my game as we partner up! And when I do this, I do accomplish everything through Christ who gives me strength.

Go:

1. What are you doing as an athlete to compete the best you can?

2. What are you doing as an athlete to partner up with Christ as you go?

3. Why not memorize this verse and quote it as you compete?

Overtime:

Father, let’s partner up as I go and compete. Provide me strength as I lean on You. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen.