FCA: The Undefeated Devotional For CompetitorsSample

Under Authority
By Sarah Rennicke

READY:
“Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God.” – Romans 13:1

SET:
When a coach and player don’t see eye to eye, it can be an overwhelmingly frustrating experience for everyone on the team. Heads collide, visions blur and there’s a lack of motivation to perform. It’s a fatal combination for any team.

As athletes, we all want our coaches to be sources of inspiration and solid teaching. At times, though, we wind up on teams where that’s not the case. Every practice is daunting, and the mental energy it takes to focus drains our physical energy and performance.

When we’re under an authority figure who may be overbearing, negative and not leading in God’s direction, our instinct tell us to disregard their place over us, become discouraged and wish away our season. But it’s the season of life we’ve been given, and we can’t waste time grumbling and wanting to take the easy way out.

In Scripture God clearly tells us to persevere, to fix our eyes on Jesus and trust that He will make something good from the situation. The people He has put above us are by His institution, and though it may be difficult to unclench the fists around our hearts, we must open ourselves to hearing from God in new ways through our obedience.

And we will hear and grow. Because God often uses what we fight most to disclose more of Himself to us through the process.

GO:
1. In what areas of your life do you have a hard time letting someone else control?
2. How can you enter a state of submission to those you don’t agree with?
3. How will you benefit from obeying God and His commands?

WORKOUT:
Luke 12:4-5
Hebrews 12:9
James 4:6-8

Overtime:
Lord, please help me submit to those who are over me. Give me the grace to serve them, and let me be a light to show them You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

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