Rooting your Identity in Christ

Before Competition

"Who am I, if I'm not an athlete?” This is a question that haunts most athletes.

For many, athletics has defined our life-story since childhood. The role of sports can become too important, especially if we had any success. I was always “that fast girl” growing up. I could jump, grab a basketball rim, and get amazing statistics in my game. Because of my throwing abilities in softball, I could play shortstop, catcher, or deep left field. I did gymnastics and even received my black-belt in Taekwondo. As you can see, sports were a big part of my life. But, “big part” can become “most important part.”

At university, we were told that we were “student-athletes”. They wanted us to know that we were students first and athletes second. But it had an unintended effect on my self-identity. I didn’t recognize the flaw in this practice until I became a professional athlete. I would often call myself a “Christian-athlete” or a “fast-athlete.” God began to convict me of this misplaced identity.

I now tell people I’m an “Athletic Christian.” It may seem small but describing myself that way changed my mindset. We must have our primary identity based on being a Christ follower. Then no matter what you do, your identity is solid and unwavering. When you stop being an athlete, it doesn’t stop who you are. You can embrace your role of parent, business person, or friend apart from athletics. Your constant foundation is God, and your identity is Christ, not performance.

The Bible reminds us that our worth is not in what we do but in who we are in Christ. We are not our talents. God gives our athletic gift to us to steward. But sports should not define who we are. God gives us gifts for three reasons:

• To bring Him Glory. When a child brings you a piece of art, you love it because they did it just for you. God feels the same way when we perform for His glory, not ours.
• To share Him with others by our example in places we can only go because of the gift He has given.
• To help us enjoy our life. Sports should not take over or become our identity but should be a legitimate gift that brings joy.

Connection:

What would it look like for you to prepare for competition, knowing that your value isn’t in whether you win or lose? How might your mindset change if you remembered that you are loved regardless of the outcome? When your passions aren’t your identity, the result can be joy without conditions.

Application Questions:

• How do today's Scripture readings challenge the way you look at performance? Think specifically about what these verses say about gifting and enjoyment.
• What practical step can you take to remind yourself of your identity in Christ before competing?

Prayer:

"Lord, help me to root my identity in You. Remind me that I am Your masterpiece, and my worth is secure in You—not in my performance, nor in my gifts. Amen."