I traveled to Michigan this past week. Being there in familiar territory, it reminded me of the Michigan State Relays Track Invitational. The year was1986. It was indoor season and the competition was fierce.
There was a superstar by the name of Andre Rison who excelled in football and basketball. He was also an All American track star. His statistics were unbelievable.
Here is where my story gets interesting. Running indoor track is always more difficult because of the tightness of the turns and the arena atmosphere. My specialty was the 400 meters and that day I was facing Andre Rison.
We were lined up together in the same “heat.” He was in lane three and I was in lane four. His reputation was well known and I had to run against this giant superstar. My palms were sweating, my knees were knocking, and my stomach was in knots. Andre was a sports giant to me and to everyone else in the arena. Many “eyes” were watching this race!
I thought about not running that day and just telling my coach I wasn’t feeling well, but my coach believed in me and encouraged me to face my fear and run. I didn’t win that that day, but I did run a respectable race.
In the book of 1 Samuel chapter 17, we learn about the faith David had in the Lord and His mighty power to enable him to face Goliath the giant.
As Christians, we will be faced with obstacles and difficulties in life. You may experience stressful situations, your stomach may be in knots, but know that you will never have to face them alone. God will always be near to encourage you as you face the giants in your life.
Resource(s): Personal Bible study, Bible (NIV) and “The Story” resources
