ONE: FCA Reading Plan For CompetitorsSample

Content 

By Rebekah Trittipoe

READY: 

“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…” – Philippians 4:12b (NIV)

SET: 

It was a perfect evening for a laid-back training run. A light breeze, low humidity, and the sweet smell of freshly cut hay provided an optimal venue. My pace was casual, somewhere between a Ninja Turtle and Speed Racer. Meandering down the country road, a little girl and her daddy emerged from a farmhouse. “Hello! How ya doing tonight?” the half-pint child’s honeyed voice wafted across the yard. 

With a smile and wave, I replied, “Very fine, thank you.” Within a few minutes, a car slowed and pulled alongside. It was the same father and daughter. “Wow. You sure run fast. How old are you, anyway?” he asked. I hardly felt fast, but suppressing a giggle I answered, “59.” Startled, he shook his head, mumbled something and drove off. He seemed to appreciate my ability to run, regardless of the pace. Me? I was just content to be running at all!

The incident reminded me of a time when I finished a competitive 50-mile race in third place. To most, that was an admirable position. However, I was disappointed and sourly communicated as much when congratulated by those who finished behind me. I suppose I wanted people to know I hadn’t performed up to expectations. I was better than that. My “Thanks, but. . .” was hardly gracious and likely insulting.

As athletes, we’re driven to excellence and are responsible to optimize our talents for God’s glory. But we also need to be content and gracious no matter the circumstance. We should be thankful that He gifted us to run, to throw things far or to kick a ball with precision. Let’s be grateful that even a sub-par performance is better than no performance at all.

GO: 

1. How can being content and striving to be better co-exist?

2. Why should/can we thank God even in disappointment? 

WORKOUT: 

Proverbs 19:23

Philippians 4:11-13

1 Timothy 6:6

OVERTIME: 

“Father, thank You for the privilege of being Your ambassador through sport regardless of my performance.”