GLORY Articles

What Does It Mean to Give God the Glory in My Sport?

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 14:00:28 GMT

Article By Sarah Freymuth, FCA Communications Manager

Knowing Whose we are changes the way we play.

It’s all over the place: the push to move yourself up the ladder of influence, success and fame. From self-indulgent Instagram posts to pushing a teammate out of the way to end up on top, we can be tempted to try and amass as much glory for ourselves in our sport as possible.

But, even if you reach the heights of success, isn’t something off? Does it feel like something is missing? Could it be that we were never meant to hold the weight of glory? Perhaps, that glory belongs to Someone else.

“’… everyone who bears my name
and is created for my glory.
I have formed them; indeed, I have made them.’” –Isaiah 43:7

Look at who you are. How you have been made in God’s image, fashioned with His hands, your heart beating to His. Every piece of our self has been stitched by a caring God, whose glory far outlasts any worldly praise we could want for ourselves.

“For it was you who created my inward parts;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I will praise you
because I have been remarkably and wondrously made.
Your works are wondrous,
and I know this very well.
My bones were not hidden from you
when I was made in secret,
when I was formed in the depths of the earth.
¹⁶ Your eyes saw me when I was formless;
all my days were written in your book and planned
before a single one of them began.” –Psalm 139:13-16

The way you play basketball effortlessly—that’s a gift given by God. Your ability to lead a team well? Another talent tailored by God. He’s intimately acquainted with every part of us, and if we lean into this wonderful knowledge that we are created in God’s image, because He deemed it good, our focus begins to shift off self and onto the glorious One who is God.

If we recognize that we are made in God’s image and that He has given us our abilities, how do we use that knowledge to guide us in our sport?

STOP AND LISTEN TO HIS VOICE

Take time during the day to listen for God. Talk to Him, pause, get still and listen to what He is saying. Read the Bible, meditate on a verse and see how you can incorporate it into your day. Maybe that’s giving a word of encouragement to a struggling teammate or staying late at practice to help clean up. Live out what you’ve learned from God.

“In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;
in the morning I plead my case to you and watch expectantly.” –Psalm 5:3

SEEK AFTER HIS HEART

Read about Jesus’ life in the gospels. How did He interact with the people around Him? What kinds of people did He meet with, pray for and teach? Learn Jesus’ rhythms and see how He would have you take care of your teammates.

“My sheep hear my voice, I know them, and they follow me.” –John 10:27

SHIFT FROM SELF TO OTHERS

Serving others brings us joy. God created us to rely on one another. Think about how you can make someone’s day better, instead of just bettering your own. When we live out of the love of God, we want to share that same love with others.

“Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’” –Matthew 25:45

God created you with care and wants you to use the talents He has placed in you to pursue His glory. When you do well in a game, give Him praise. When you don’t do well, give Him praise. Remember Whose you are and lean into that identity. Lead a life on and off the field that leads people to the God who is worthy of all praise.

***

Live It Out:

Quarter Verse – Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Question – How have you been playing for personal glory? How does knowing God made you with care shift the way you compete?

Challenge – Commit to praise God and give Him glory no matter how the outcome of your next game.

*If you read this article and aren’t in relationship with Christ yet but would like to know more, we invite you to go through FCA’s The FOUR that explains how an everlasting and fulfilling life with God is possible.

We want you to join us as we go through the Glory journey this year! Discover Chasing Glory, Received Glory, Reflecting Glory and Lasting Glory in your heart and purpose by diving into God’s Word and joining us through monthly content and challenges. Visit

and start today!

Who Am I?

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:00:01 GMT

Article By Mindy Hopman, FCA Regional Director of Ministry Advancement (Florida)

The Creator of the universe thought specifically of you when He created you.

The world tells us we need to be successful, and success only comes from tangible items. So we run, race and compete to be the best, the smartest, the fastest and, sometimes, even the funniest. But it leaves us exhausted trying to keep up.

But there’s good news: the Word of God tells us that when Jesus died on the cross, sin was nailed to it, and we don’t have to live empty in a world full of comparison and competition from brokenness anymore.

The miraculous story of creation can be found in the first two chapters of Genesis, but God wanted more than to admire the beauty of His workmanship. Something was missing. On the sixth day, God created man and woman so He could enjoy fellowship with someone like Him. And He didn’t hold back in His design.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.” –Ephesians 2:10

The Creator of the universe thought specifically of you when He created you. You are His masterpiece. Yes, you have a love for your sport. You may even be skilled in it. Your passion for the game isn’t a random incident that came upon you when you started playing; it came from intentional creation. Before all things began, God already was, and He had you in mind.

You are who God meant you to be. His perfect love was behind every part of your unique design.

“Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness.’” –Genesis 1:26a

HIS THOUGHTS ABOUT ME ARE INFINITE

In a time when physical appearance is such a dominant part of culture, it's incredible to know that God created every person born (including you) in His image because of His great love for humankind.

“By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.” –Hebrews 11:3

While I cannot understand the depth of His infinite thoughts about me, I know He has a plan and that plan does not tire Him. He does not grow weak or weary. God initiates all things divine. He merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born (Isaiah 40:28; Psalm 33:6). He wove you in your mother’s womb. He gave you the perfect body size, nose, eyes and hair color. Doesn’t it feel good to know we are fearfully and wonderfully made in His image (Psalm 139:13-14)?

“So God created man in his own image.” –Genesis 1:27a

I AM A NEW CREATION

When you turn to Jesus and make Him the Lord and Savior of your life, God creates you anew.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, and see, the new has come!” –2 Corinthians 5:17

You will never cease to be the most amazed person on earth at what God has done for you on the inside.”― Oswald Chambers

In the places where you feel less than, may you trust Him and let the power of His Holy Spirit move into your heart and make you complete. The power of His Spirit fills the void of comparison the world creates.

Holy contentment and perfect peace come from knowing God created us to be the ideal people to carry out His plan for His purpose right where He strategically places us.

SO, WHO AM I?

I am God’s Masterpiece.
I am created anew in Christ Jesus.
I am prepared and equipped to do the work He planned for me long ago.
I am gifted by the power of the Holy Spirit and when I use my gift for His good and His glory, it brings Him great pleasure.

The great Olympic runner Eric Liddell said, “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.” You are who God meant you to be. His perfect love was behind every part of your unique design. When you walk confidently in your calling in Christ, may you feel His pleasure.

The Creator of all things created is worthy "... to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased" (Revelation 4:11, NLT) .

***

Live It Out:

Question – How do you currently see yourself? How does God see you?

Challenge – Remember who you are in God through Christ: a son or daughter wonderfully made. Share who you are in Him with the world today.

and start today!

What Matters Most?

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 20:14:59 GMT

Article By Mark Long, FCA Endurance (Virginia)

The solution to find balance and peace is found in God’s Word.

Professional athletes and coaches face monumental decisions as they enter their arena of sport. Their choices and decisions can set the trajectory of their careers and their lives. Some set their sights on maximum financial gain, some on ensuring they are on the best winning team, while others may seek more noble pursuits. It all centers on what the coach or athlete considers the highest priority and what they value the most.

The same is true for our lives. What we value as most important determines how we spend our time and resources. It frames our world, guides our decisions and governs our choices. It forces us to prioritize the many, so we can accomplish the few that make the greatest impact in achieving our goals.

As a simple example, consider your morning thought process. At the start of your day, where does your mind go? Most likely, on all the things that need to be done that day, being mindful of which ones are most important. Prioritization allows us to assess what matters most and giving those things the right amount of our attention and time.

Athletes juggle academics, training and competing, along with many other outside activities, responsibilities and life choices. Coaches have families to serve, a career that can often be consuming, pressure to win and both internal and external expectations to meet. Balancing these variables can leave us overwhelmed, overworked and overloaded.

The solution to find balance and peace is found in God’s Word. Using the Bible as our guide provides the foundation for setting priorities. It teaches us to put God first in every area of our lives, value relationships over material possessions, and strive for spiritual growth above worldly success.

The account of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42 is an excellent example of focusing on what matters most and placing priority of the important over the urgent. Martha was activity driven, busy with important things, but Mary was relationally driven, sitting at Jesus’ feet and listening to Him. Jesus says, “Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part” (v.41-42) . Jesus proclaims the priority, the “one thing”.

Jesus also addresses what matters most when asked what the greatest commandment was. His response, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30-31). Our highest priority and continual mindset is to love God and love others.

Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

So how do we set our priorities and our agenda on what’s most important to God in our life and daily routine? Here are a few examples from God’s Word:

SEEK

Seek God first in every decision and pursuit.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” –Matthew 6:33

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” –Colossians 3:2

SPEND

Spend time in God’s presence daily. Pray, give thanks, read the Bible and worship. Ask God to help you discern what your priorities should be.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” –1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

SURROUND

Surround yourself with other Christ followers – church, small group bible study, fellowship, and discipleship.

“Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” –Hebrews 10:25

SERVE

Serve God by using your gift and talents.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” –1 Peter 4:10

SHARE

Share the Good News with others.

“And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’“ –Mark 16:15

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” –Matthew 28:19

So, what matters most to you today? What will you prioritize?

***

Live It Out

Theme Verse – Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Question – How are you currently spending your time, energy and resources?

Challenge – Review the 5 action verbs above and assess your strengths and weaknesses, then develop a prioritization action plan for advancement.

and start today!

What Are You Chasing?

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 19:54:56 GMT

Article By FCA

We were never meant to hold our own glory; it’s meant for Someone else.

We’re trying to do everything on our own to ensure that we get the recognition we think we deserve.

We’re doing everything to point back to ourselves. More playing time, more stats, more crowds cheering us on. But it falls flat. The praise doesn’t bring the peace we thought it would.

But what if there’s more than chasing after awards that fade, records that get broken, and a name that gets buried in the annals as time passes? What if there’s a deeper purpose for our talents?

The truth is that we were never made to hold our own glory. There is a God who made us in His image, for His glory.

When you win a game, achieve an athletic goal, shine in a performance or break a record, your natural response as a competitor is to want the credit and whatever reward is attached to that success. Another way you might describe it is “glory,” which can come in the form of recognition, renown, prestige, fame, or honor. There’s nothing inherently wrong in desiring good outcomes from your hard work. But if that’s your number one goal as a competitor, it will never be as fulfilling as you hope it might be. You’ll always be tempted to chase your own glory if you don’t understand your true identity and purpose.

Receiving glory in the form of honor, praise, admiration, or rewards will naturally occur throughout your athletic career. But when you find yourself chasing glory, it becomes a problem. It puts you out of balance with God’s plan, which for Him to receive all the glory for what He has done for you and through you.

Like Adam and Eve in the garden and the people of Babylon, you can find yourself chasing glory in the form of popularity, awards, records, scholarships or even Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deals and professional contracts. That sinful nature tries to compel you toward pride, selfishness, struggles with identity and self-worth, idolatry and attempting to claim God’s glory for yourself. But God didn’t create you to handle the weight of His glory. Instead, He created you to give Him the glory and have peace knowing that Jesus is perfectly sufficient in every aspect of your life.

The first step toward true peace and fulfillment is acknowledging that you are chasing after something that God never intended for you. As you step away from the sin of pride and move closer to Him, it’s important to remember that chasing glory for yourself is a vain pursuit. It won’t fulfill you or bring you closer to God. For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse.

“For though they knew God, they did not glorify him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became worthless, and their senseless hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools.” –Romans 1:21-22

As you better understand the nature of God’s glory, you will start to move from chasing your glory to reflecting His glory. And His glory is what matters.

***

Live It Out

Question – Are you chasing after something that isn't part of God's plan for you?

Challenge – Find a Bible verse on God's glory and ask yourself what you can do to give Him glory in your day today.

Finding Your Worth in Christ

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 16:03:29 GMT

Article By Shanta Crichlow

Staff Writer

It’s not about your performance, but who you are in God’s eyes.

Years after competing in track and field at the collegiate level, I found myself in a state of wondering. Life made a lot more sense while running track and going to school. The actions of training, working hard, discipline, proper rest and care yielded the direct results of improved performance. The process of patience and waiting had obvious mile-markers in the form of competition seasons, semesters and stats. You always knew where you were and how far you had left to go. Even my relationship with Jesus Christ, at that time, was a means to an athletic end with actions and anticipated results. Quiet times, reading the Bible and devotions were part of my athletic process of doing what it took to get the results I desired.

All of that changed when it was time to lay down my spikes and engage a new life journey: Adulting. The path to success was no longer straight after sports and school. As a matter of fact, the very concept of success became less and less clear.

I started developing a more appropriate perspective of true success through Scripture like Matthew 7:24-25:

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain fell, the rivers rose, and the winds blew and pounded that house. Yet it didn’t collapse, because its foundation was on the rock.”

I learned that the prizes of life are not my athletic accomplishments, my post-athletics career or the other temporary things I greatly valued. The greatest prize is and will always be God Himself.

David got that. The shepherd-turned-king of Israel wrote in the Psalms:

“LORD, you are my portion

and my cup of blessing;

you hold my future.

The boundary lines have fallen for me

in pleasant places;

indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.” (Psalm 16:5-6)

That changed everything for me.

For the first time, I clearly saw how shortsighted and out of order my pursuits were. Now, I see that any of my pursuits into which I choose to invite God is a journey into relationship with Him.

God makes a bold declaration to the people of Israel in Exodus 9:16:

“However, I have let you live for this purpose: to show you my power and to make my name known on the whole earth.”

Perhaps you have in mind how God could fulfill this through your coaching or playing and your idea is likely tied to performance. I used to think that if I got the wins and accolades then I could give God a shoutout. If I am successful in my career, have material gains and am living the dream, I can accredit it to God and to Him be the glory. But what happens when you have a tough season, when you’re not the best athlete in the league or on your team, or when your time in athletics (as with everything) comes to an end? Who are you beyond the arena of play?

There are more ways to honor Christ with your life. God’s purpose is life-giving and life changing. The life God has given us in Christ can be full, abundant and satisfying, if we let it. We can use this life to elevate God simply by how we compete, live and treat each other every day (not just with outcomes in mind).

When we work at whatever we from the heart as for the Lord and not people (Colossians 3:23), and when we look to the interest of others not only our own (Philippians 2:4), what glory might you bring when you play for the Prize that is greater than the trophies and titles?

You don’t get to glorify God in just one thing or one area but in everything you do, great or small. That’s exciting. The great gift from God is salvation in Jesus and His promises of eternity, greater joy and peace. The greatest gift we have is God Himself, and your worth comes from who you are in Him.

You are so much more than statistics. You are a gift from God, to glorify Him everywhere you go. Rest in this performance-free relationship. He’s got you right where you’re meant to be.

LIVE IT OUT:

“’He must increase, but I must decrease.’” -John 3:30

Question: For who or what have you been competing? How does knowing you are God’s beloved son or daughter change your approach to competing?

Challenge: Determine how you will give God glory in the wins and losses of your day and be prepared to live for Him.

If you're not yet in a relationship with Jesus and want to learn more about what it means to follow Him, check out FCA's resource The FOUR. Ready to go deeper in your walk with Christ? Check out the resources available to help you grow more as a follower of Jesus.