Your Identity in Christ Doesn’t Change based on Results

After Competition

The competition is over. All the preparation, the sacrifices, the pressure — it all led to that moment. And now, it’s gone. Whether you succeeded or fell short, this is one of the most confusing and pivotal moments in an athlete's journey. Now what?

The race I talked about in day two of this plan went well for me. I qualified for my first Olympic Games. In that moment, I felt overwhelming happiness and relief. But soon after, the “Now what?” question still crept in.

Growing up, I had dreamed of becoming an Olympian. But when I finally arrived in Paris, I realized something unsettling. I began to feel that being an Olympian wasn’t enough. I began to tell myself, I need an Olympic medal. Suddenly, making the team wasn’t the dream fulfilled — it was another test. My value as an athlete and person felt like it was on trial once again, and I was desperate to prove I was worthy.

On day two of the Olympic competition, I won a bronze medal in my event. Later, I earned another as part of a relay. But the anticipated satisfaction didn't come. The Olympics faded from everyone’s memory, and normal life resumed. It was then I experienced some of the most intense anxiety of my life. What if I never make another Olympics? What if I never get better? Do people think I did well enough? I was good enough for silver — why did I only get bronze? My mind was full of what-ifs, and I was finally experiencing what so many had warned me about. When you chase things of this world for fulfillment, they will always leave you empty and searching for more.

God created us for something greater — for a relationship with Him and with others. When we try to place medals, money, or achievements in the role only He can fill, the pieces don’t fit together. Solomon, the richest and most powerful man of his time, had everything the world could offer. But in Ecclesiastes, he said that nothing could satisfy his heart apart from God’s love.

I found myself asking, "Where do I go from here?" If even the highest achievements can’t satisfy you, what can? The answer is simple: Jesus! Our identity must be rooted in Him rather than our abilities or results. We then can experience joy in our sports, regardless of circumstances or outcome. We can celebrate success without making it an idol. We can face disappointment without being crushed by it.

The truth is, whether I won two medals or didn’t even make the Olympics, my worth in God’s eyes never changed. The same is true for you. If you’re feeling lost after a big moment, know this: you are already loved, already seen, and already secure in Jesus.

Application Questions:

• Is there something you think would make you happy if you could have it?
• Name it and think about the false promises that it brings you. Begin to study the Bible for true promises from God.

Prayer:

"God, thank You for the gift of competition. Thank You for creating sports as a way for us to experience Your love for us. Lord, I’m struggling to remember that I can’t gain or lose anything from the result of my competition. Remind me that You’ve created sports for self-discovery and not self-worth. Humble my heart to listen to You and not to the world. I praise You for the opportunity to compete and for the joy that comes from moving my body and using my gifts. Shape me into the person who loves and trusts You in every circumstance. In Your name, Amen."