FCA: The Relentless Devotional For CompetitorsSample

Finding A Way Past Defeat

Amy Elrod

READY:

Do not remember the past events, pay no attention to things of old. Look, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness, rivers in the desert. – Isaiah 43:18-19

SET:

As competitors, we will all inevitably face defeat. We’ll play an incredible game but still come up a little short. And the feeling can be crushing. In the aftermath of defeat, we look back and think about all the missed opportunities, mistakes or “almosts” that could have changed the result of the game. We can dwell in the past and allow it to affect our future. Many times our coach will say, “Don’t think about last game. It’s done. You can’t change the result. Focus on the future opponent and prepare for the next game.”

We must do the same thing in our spiritual lives. It’s easy for us to dwell on our past defeats, mess-ups or circumstances. But Jesus Christ desires us to look forward and not reside in the past. Sometimes it’s difficult to see where God is moving in your life in the midst of defeat, but He promises that He is doing something new and making a way through any trial or defeat.

Don’t let a crushing defeat – whether on the field or in your life – fool you. God is at work. Focus and examine to see where God is working in the details. Then expect that He will make a way in, a way out or a way through any defeat, wilderness or desert you may encounter!

GO:

1. How do you handle defeat?
2. In what ways can you change your perspective when faced with a touch circumstance?
3. How can God use your past defeats for His new plans for you as a competitor for Christ?

WORKOUT:

Philippians 4:13-14
2 Corinthians 5:17
Colossians 1:9-14

OVERTIME:

Lord help me not dwell on the past but focus on where you’re working in my life and creating something new.