Heart of a Champion: An Athlete’s Identity in GodSample

### Pursuing Approval Happiness can be elusive, especially if we depend on others to make it happen. For some athletes, happiness takes the form of approval. If you feel anxious about losing the acceptance of others, you may develop a subconscious desire to please. You might feel this more strongly after sporting events and competitions. It’s common to worry over letting down coaches, family members, and the general public. When you don’t perform well, the shame can be immense. But that shame usually comes from within more than from other individuals. In truth, our self-esteem should stem simply from having God’s approval. However, we often believe people are big and God is small. When we lose sight of our identity and worth in Christ, the opinion of others can quickly become an idol. While happiness is fleeting, true joy comes from a confidence that God is in our corner. Joy comes from knowing it’s impossible for Him to love us any more than He already does. John 15:15 reminds us that we are God’s chosen friends. And no matter how often failure materializes (whether in sports or any other area of life), we don’t have to chase after God’s approval, for His love will never diminish.