What makes a good tennis player a great one? Even among two players equally matched in physical ability and skills, it’s not always brawn that wins. Even in this year’s Wimbledon finals, commentators used terms like ‘psychological mastery’ and ‘mental character’. On the topic of ‘Mental Toughness’, Wikipedia has this to say: ‘…a psychological edge that helps one perform at a high level consistently’ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sport_psychology).
As Christians, we too have a mental edge. Unlike sports or secular psychology, we do not look inwardly for that extra boost when we go through tough times. We have many promises in God’s Word that we can hold on too. We should not forget that the Bible contains many reports of God’s followers going through difficult times, and as the people of God, we too can look to the assurances God has made, and apply them to our own lives. Here are three which could give you that ‘psychological edge’ this week:
In Deuteronomy 31:8, Joshua is given the task of leading a nation into unexplored territory. He has no idea how many enemies are ahead or what strategies they will use. But God has a message for him: The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged (NIV).
In Jeremiah 29:11, we see the once proud nation of Israel beaten, crushed and exiled because of their rebellion against God. It looks pretty bleak for the people of God. Will the ever return back to their land? Will their favour with God ever be restored? Does God still love them? “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 (NIV).
At the time of writing 1 Peter 5:7, the church is being persecuted. Many believers are paying for their faith in the crucified and resurrected Jesus. Much of this book talks about suffering and yet we are reminded: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you (NIV).
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