Press on Because of What You’ve Been Given

In the early years of my professional career, I had a lot to learn. I thought I’d be able to transition easily from playing college soccer to playing professionally. But when I arrived in the pro environment, I realized how big the gap was!

I had to improve my kicking game, get stronger in the gym, and learn how to make smarter decisions, all at a much faster pace than I was used to.

In the offseason, I played for a team in Denmark to improve my game. There, I met an assistant coach who was committed to individual player development. I signed up for individual sessions with her to work on my footwork. Most mornings, she and I would be out on the field together before the team trained, honing my skills.

She was very detail-oriented and intentional. She meticulously planned sessions to work on specific skills and goals. I’d never had a coach so invested in me and my personal development. She worked with me to create a plan with big goals and helped me achieve them.

I saw a lot of progress in our six months together. Even when I left Denmark, she continued to help by analyzing video clips I sent her. We messaged back and forth over the years. Without her investment in me, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She helped me feel like I could accomplish anything.

She showed me that I wasn’t alone as I worked toward my goals. My coach became an example of God’s gift of grace. She came alongside me to encourage and remind me that I had all I needed.

The role of my coach in my training is similar to the role of the Holy Spirit. Like my coach empowered me, when we give our lives to Christ, the Holy Spirit lives in us to empower us. The difference with Jesus is that we don’t earn it through extra practice time on the field. The grace of God is freely given to us because of what Jesus did for us on the cross.

His finished work takes away the stress and pressure of trying to accomplish our goals on our own. Jesus sacrificed Himself on the cross, forgiving us and restoring our relationship with our Heavenly Father. More than any earthly coach can empower or instruct, our Heavenly Father is always with us to guide and help us.

Challenge:

• Spend some time thanking God for the gift of His grace in your life. Be specific with areas where He’s helped and empowered you.
• How can you remind yourself that God is your greatest helper when things get tough?

Prayer:

“Father, I’m thankful that it is only through Christ that I have eternal life. If it were up to me, I’d certainly fail! May the gift of your Son become so real to me that it motivates me to love, compete, and do everything for You. May I boast in the cross alone.”