“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Romans 8:28
But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
James 1:2-4
Our son suffered a season ending injury last year. Surprisingly, he was able to keep smiling through the pain and months of healing. It wasn’t until the preparation for the new season that he finally got frustrated in the waiting process.
He is completely healed, but after the surgery there were little reminders that his body has been broken. He didn’t want to feel the reminders. He wanted to go back to playing free with no worries.
As I sat, reading my Bible and asking God to help encourage our son, He reminded me of these scriptures. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Paul is talking about the “thorn in his side” that keeps him humble. Paul pleads with the Lord to take it away!
Isn’t that what we do for our children? We beg God to remove all obstacles and pain.
Then the Lord says to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul goes on to say he will now boast all the more gladly about his weakness so that Christ’s power may rest on him.
I got to share that with my son. I told him I was sorry he had reminders of the pain that he suffered, but God has a plan to use it for good!
Instead of the feeling he was experiencing causing worry it could be the reminder our son needed to rely of Christ. That is something to boast about! To call it pure joy that he has a reminder of where his strength comes from.
As Christ followers one of the hardest things to accomplish is acknowledging our need for Him in all things. Let’s strive to see our athlete’s setbacks not as time wasted, but instead let’s rejoice in the good work the Lord is doing. Time away for physical training leaves room for the heart training.