The Weight of What the World Thinks

Why Christian Athletes Compete Free from Burdens Others Face

Hey Rival –

Winning matters—every athlete knows that. We step into every competition with the intention to beat our opponent. It’s at the core of what we do. But for many athletes, the importance of what others think can overshadow the drive to win. When the opinions of the crowd become your motivation, the match is lost before it begins. Why? Because you are playing for the wrong reason.

An athlete faces judgment during every competition. Opinions can come from coaches, parents, friends, fans, and social media. Competing for the approval of all these people is exhausting. The weight of what everyone else thinks is too heavy to carry alone.

In the book of Matthew, Jesus offers us an amazing invitation. He says, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me for I am gentle and lowly in heart. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NIV).

With a simple phrase, “come to me,” Jesus offers an escape from the burdens of this world. He tells us that His way is better.

We were never meant to carry the weight of opinions and pressure. It is the people around us—and often ourselves—who place those burdens on our backs. But Jesus has been by our side all along with arms open, waiting for us to lay those burdens at His feet. We can find strength and rest in Him.

Application Questions:

• What is an opinion you believe others have of you that you need to give to Jesus?
• Who in your circle can you lean on to help you carry the load? Who in your circle needs your help carrying their load?

Prayer:

"God, sometimes the weight of the world feels heavy on our shoulders. We thank You that you have offered us freedom from that weight. Help us to take a posture of surrender and lay down our burdens at Your feet so that we may find rest in You. Amen."