10 Commandments for Athletes From Philippiansਨਮੂਨਾ

Christian Athlete, Stop Worrying

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6 ESV).

I'll never forget a conversation I had with one of my athletes at practice. I could tell he was struggling and wanted to lean in into it with him. Would he let me in? Within thirty seconds, he blurted out through tears "I'm just afraid I'll never get to compete it college." There it was. All of the pressure he put on himself in practice and in competition stemmed from a deep desire to play at the next level. And the sad irony was that his worrying was preventing him from reaching his peak potential—making it increasingly unlikely that his dream would be realized.

The truth is that sports can be a breeding ground for anxiety where expectations, comparison, pressure to perform get the best of us. But God never intended us to live as anxious athletes. Paul’s antidote is simple, but powerful: pray about everything. Prayer isn’t a last resort—it’s our first response.

Every time anxiety rises—before a big game, a tough meeting, or a key moment—bring it to God. Thank Him for the opportunity, surrender the outcome, and rest in His peace. We keep bringing up the idea of gratitude during this ten-day devotional. Yes, it's because the Bible is imploring us to be grateful, but it's also because our brains can't hold anxiety and gratitude at the same time. It's one or the other. Gratitude really is a biblical performance enhancer!

But it's about so much more than using spiritual life hacks to help us excel in sport. Philippians 4:7 ultimately promises that His peace “surpasses understanding.” That means it’s supernatural—it can calm you even when circumstances don’t change. Freedom from worry doesn’t mean the nerves disappear. It means they no longer control you.

Reflection Questions:

1. What triggers your anxiety most in competition?
2. How can you make prayer your first response instead of your last resort?

Prayer to Consider:
Jesus, I give You my worries and fears. Replace my anxiety with Your peace and help me trust You fully. That's your promise in Philippians 4:6-7 and I claim that today. For your glory, my joy, and the good of others. Amen.