24,25 “For ‘All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, but the word of the Lord remains forever.’ And this word is the good news that was preached to you.”
1 Peter 1:24,25 (ESV)
Athletes have a relatively short career compared to other professions because their profession heavily relies on the body.
As the body ages, the time it takes to recover increases, oxygen is not used as effectively, and repair and growth of skeletal muscles declines. That’s why athletes make the most of their bodies while they can.
Even when taking care of their bodies to the best of their abilities, injuries still happen. Some cannot be easily reversed. In times of injury, hope can be found in God and His Word.
While the strength and power of our bodies may be fleeting, God’s Word is not. He is the God in our health and in our injury. His Word remains the same and will stand forever.
Because His Word says goodness and mercy will follow us every day of our lives, it will. Because His Word says in all things we are more than conquerors, we are. Because His Word says He will never leave us nor forsake us, He won’t.
You still have an immutable purpose even if flawless athleticism is no longer the vehicle God will use to get you there. Trust that the God who blessed you with your athletic gift will sustain it for as long as you need it.
And when your body no longer serves the purpose you would like it to, your life can still serve the purpose God intended it to.
