24/7 Training TimeSample

Purpose Over Pressure

By: Hannah Kao

READY

Jesus responded to them, “ Do you now believe? Indeed, an hour is coming, and has come, when each of you will be scattered to his own home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.”—John 16:31-33

SET

Wake up. Get ready. Go to class or work. Make it through the day. Hurry to practice. Compete. Go home. Eat dinner. Prepare for the next day. Go to sleep. Repeat.

Does this sound familiar? Have you ever experienced feeling stressed or overwhelmed with daily life?

I am someone who thrives on routine and structure, but some days I feel like I’m barely staying on top of all that I have going on. Between working full time, serving at church, and spending time with loved ones, it’s hard to find time to take a deep breath.

As competitors, we are driven and want to excel in multiple areas of our lives. When we don’t meet the expectations of others or of ourselves, it’s frustrating and sometimes overwhelming. We feel the pressures of life closing in and don’t know how to fix things.

There is good news! Through the verses in John, Jesus reminds us that despite the hardships and pressures we will face, we cannot be fearful of those things, nor can we let them take control. God has conquered the world and already has His plan in place. So we must be fearless and persevere, knowing there is hope ahead through our salvation in Him.

GO

1. What is causing stress or anxiety in your daily life?

2. What is stopping you from fully trusting in God’s plan for you?

3. What next steps can you take after reflecting on today’s biblical truth?

WORKOUT

• Proverbs 12:25
• James 1:12
• Joshua 1:9

OVERTIME

Dear God, thank You for being steadfast on days where I feel like I’m falling apart. Please give me strength and wisdom as I go through each day balancing pressures from all sides. Help me to trust You and remember that You are my ultimate hope. In Jesus’ name, amen.