“I want to be as one with Him. I could not be right with God by what the Law said I must do. I was made right with God by faith in Christ.” Philippians 3:9
Mark McGwire, Lance Armstrong, Jose Canseco… Before their cheating exposés, these were some of the most well respected athletes in the country. Now, their names are added to a long list of apologetic stars with a tainted record for cheating.
Their decisions to use performance-enhancing drugs can be reasoned with their desire to feel stronger and faster; win at all costs. But, there are many other ways to succeed: lift weights, eat healthy, train harder and become more disciplined. These athletes were fully aware of the one forbidden way—steroids. Much like when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, they knew it was wrong to do, but disobeyed anyway. Similarly, as the serpent tempted them, these athletes were also tempted by serpents—the pressure to win, self-doubt, the need to feel recognized.
Despite Adam and Eve’s decision to sin, what did the Lord do? He continued to pursue them and show them love. His children, who were left naked and ashamed, did not come to God in remorse, but rather He came to them. That’s right. God sought out His children and even provided them clothing. This clear example of God’s love teaches us that even though we sin, even though we rebel against Him, He loves us and forgives us. His love and compassion are stronger and deeper than any sin we commit.
By Sarah Layne
This devotional was taken from Sports Spectrum’s latest Training Table, a 13-week devotional published in each print issue. Log in HERE to view the Winter 2016 print issue of Sports Spectrum or access the Winter 2016 Training Table.
