12,13 “Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed.”
Hebrews 12:12,13 (NASB)
In athletics, both strength and flexibility are key components to not only peak performance but injury prevention.
Strength in sports can be described as power, energy, courage, stability, health and tenacity.
Flexibility in sports can be described as ability to move freely, adaptability and range of motion.
As an athlete, you want not only your body to get stronger and more flexible, but you also want your mind and spirit to become stronger and more flexible too.
But how do you build strength and flexibility into your character?
Participating in sports provides many opportunities to encounter trials, fatigue and discouragement. How you navigate these hardships will determine how quickly you grow in your spiritual strength and flexibility.
Build strength by:
- Understanding the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:11
- Trusting in God, not your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5,6
- Imitating Jesus -- walk as He walked. 1 John 2:6
Build flexibility by:
- Not complaining. Philippians 2:14,15
- Thinking about yourself less -- be other-focused. Philippians 2:3
- Embracing every situation as an opportunity to glorify the Lord. Colossians 3:17
Athlete, take every opportunity to grow both strength and flexibility into yourselves.
