Athletics can teach us about perseverance and focus. Today, we will explore what the Bible says about sports and how they relate to faith and life’s challenges.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Athlete
What Does The Bible Say About Athletics
1 Corinthians 9:24
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”
This verse encourages believers to approach their athletic pursuits with a mindset of determination and perseverance, striving to achieve the ultimate goal or prize.
Philippians 3:14
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
As athletes press on toward their earthly goals, this verse reminds them of the greater prize awaiting them in Christ Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of aligning their pursuits with God’s calling.
2 Timothy 2:5
“Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules.”
Just as athletes must follow the rules of their sport to receive the crown, this verse teaches the value of obeying God’s commands in our spiritual journey.
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
This verse reminds believers to let go of anything that hinders their spiritual progress and to run their race with perseverance, knowing that they have heavenly witnesses cheering them on.
1 Timothy 6:12
“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”
Just as athletes engage in physical battles, believers are called to fight for their faith and hold on to the promise of eternal life, standing firm in their confession of Christ.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This verse assures athletes that as they place their hope in the Lord, He will give them the strength to endure, enabling them to run without growing weary and walk without fainting.
Colossians 3:23
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Whether in sports or any other pursuit, believers are encouraged to approach their work with a wholehearted commitment, recognizing that they ultimately serve the Lord.
Proverbs 21:31
“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.”
This verse reminds athletes that while preparation and training are important, victory ultimately comes from the Lord, and we should trust in Him for the outcome.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Believers are called to honor God in all aspects of their lives, including their participation in athletics, recognizing that their actions should bring glory to Him.
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
This verse encourages athletes to view their physical bodies as a living sacrifice, dedicating their talents and efforts to God as an act of worship.
Ecclesiastes 9:11
“I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all.”
This verse reminds athletes that success in their endeavors is not solely determined by their own abilities, but is ultimately subject to the timing and providence of God.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'”
This verse serves as a reminder that true worth and value come from the condition of our hearts, rather than outward appearances or physical abilities. God values character over achievements.
2 Samuel 22:33
“It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.”
This verse acknowledges that it is God who provides us with strength and protection, both in our athletic pursuits and in all areas of life.
Psalm 144:1
“Praise be to the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle.”
Believers can find confidence in knowing that it is the Lord who equips and trains them for every battle and challenge they face, including physical competitions.
Psalm 18:32
“It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.”
This verse gives athletes the assurance that it is God who empowers them with strength and enables them to perform at their best.
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this:.”
By entrusting their athletic pursuits to the Lord and placing their trust in Him, athletes can have confidence that He will guide and fulfill His plans for them.
Proverbs 24:10
“If you falter in a time of trouble, how small is your strength!”
This verse reminds athletes of the importance of perseverance and resilience during challenging times, highlighting the need to draw strength from the Lord.
Psalm 20:7
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
While others may rely on their own physical abilities or external resources, believers are called to put their trust in the Lord, recognizing that He is the ultimate source of strength and victory.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Athletes, like all believers, may face moments of fear, uncertainty, or setbacks. However, this verse assures them of God’s constant presence and guidance, bringing comfort and reassurance.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
In their athletic pursuits, believers can trust in God’s plans for their lives, knowing that He desires their well-being, provides hope, and has a future filled with purpose and blessings.
Psalm 25:5
“Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”
Athletes can seek guidance and direction from the Lord, recognizing that He is their Savior and the source of their hope throughout the entirety of their athletic journeys.
Psalm 9:9
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.”
In moments of difficulty or adversity, athletes can find refuge and strength in the Lord, who provides a safe haven and a source of stability when things are challenging.
Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”
This verse reminds athletes that God is not only their source of strength and protection but also a reason for joy and praise, regardless of the outcomes of their athletic endeavors.