". . .the joy of the Lord is our strength."
-Nehemiah 8:10

As athletes, we workout to better ourselves for competition. We hit the weights to gain strength, speed and size. But have you ever had one of those days in which your strength wasn't where you wanted it to be or you just don't feel strong? Have you ever had one of those days in life where you were feeling the same way spiritually?
 
In those times, we have to remember that it is not about us, it's about Him. Jesus Christ is the One who gives us strength. It says in Psalm 33:16:

"A king is not saved by a large army; a warrior will not be delivered by great strength."

Knowing the Lord is the greatest strength we have. With His strength we can overcome anything. Problems at home or school; problems of heartache, physical pain and injury; situations in our families, with friends and people we know, etc. Important decisions and questions in our lives, on our teams and in our careers can easily be made by coming to God for His strength, wisdom and love. These are things that--no matter how hard you workout, how fast you run or how much you bench press--cannot be solved by your strength.
 
Look to the Lord in all things, and do them in joy, no matter what the situation.

He will bring you the strength, both spiritually and physically.
 
Whom do you look to first when you need strength?

Do you face all situations with the joy of the Lord?

Do you remember the times the Lord's strength helped you overcome situations? 
 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Steve Satake has been a high school football coach for 12 years. He is a Huddle Coach at Vallivue High School in Caldwell, Idaho.

In Jesus' name, Amen.