Devotion: Community
Take a moment to read Philippians 3:12-4:1
The merger of faith and sports has a centuries-long history and even today, professional athletes, like many of us, turn to prayer to seek strength, guidance, and courage. In this way, prayer becomes a powerful expression of our faith–and for athletes–and a reminder for us that faith is not confined to a church pew but is a living, active presence in all aspects of our lives. Just as athletes set their sights on victory, we can set spiritual goals toward being at our best for the sake of others. We could say that setting spiritual goals is an act of faith in itself, a recognition that our journey with God is a purposeful and intentional one. A “me for we” mindset.
As we pursue our collective goal there can be painful yet transforming changes that we undergo–spiritually, mentally, and even physically. Consider the process one must experience to see a change or see results: Even when you simply raise your heart rate, you can tell you body is striving for more. It reminds us that God desires us not only our best but also to use us as instruments of His love and healing in the world. God can turn our pain into a source of strength or empathy for others.
When we consider God’s vision of our “best”; it often extends beyond our personal ambitions. God’s version of the best you is someone who reaches beyond yourself, who serves others, and who reflects the love and grace of Christ. In our pursuit of the collective goal, let us not forget that our greatest achievements are those that benefit others, that bring hope and light where those both may be lacking.
God’s transformative power takes our pain and turns it into purpose, reminding us that He desires us to be at our best for His glory. Let’s remember that being our best is also a vulnerable act, which also propels us to reach beyond ourselves, especially when we need the support of our community. And as we strive for our best, may we always seek to reach beyond ourselves, emulating the selfless love of Jesus.
God, we thank you for the way our faith intertwines with every facet of our lives, including our goals, our pain, and our desire to reach beyond ourselves. Help us see the connection between prayer and all our endeavors. Guide us as we set spiritual goals, aligning our desires with your will. Transform our pain into a source of strength and empathy, and empower us to be our best for the greater good–Your good. Amen
Written by Joanna Clay
Joanna and her husband, Matt, live in Lincoln with their two young daughters, Emery and Madisen. The Clays have been members of the Sheridan community since 2014. Joanna is Senior Content Manager for a San Diego-based healthcare coaching company called Practicing Excellence. She enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, longboarding, binge-watching historical dramas, and connecting with others over life’s big questions.