The Upside Down Athlete

What does it mean to be a Christian athlete?

What does it mean to be a Christian athlete? It means adhering to principles of a different world; Jesus’ “Upside Down” Kingdom where greatness comes from serving, strength is found in weakness, suffering leads to glory, and enemies are loved.

It goes beyond pointing to the sky after a win or saying “God is good” only in victory. It involves quoting Philippians 4:13 in its full context.

The Christian athlete believes “every good and perfect gift is from [God] above,” therefore, there’s no room for boasting in human performance, only humility.

The Christian athlete believes “every good and perfect gift is from [God] above,” therefore, there’s no room for boasting in human performance, only humility. Their worth and value are defined by and secure in God well before they step foot on the field, giving them immense freedom during competition and joy regardless the outcome.

They understand humans are wired for worship. They don’t idolize riches, fame and success. Their delight is in the Lord.

They believe sports were created for enjoyment but more importantly for God’s glory.

Christ calls them to love their enemies. So, instead of wishing harm on their opponents, they love, pray for and even delight in the success of their competitors.

They desire lives marked by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control — on and off the field. Christ calls them to love their enemies. So, instead of wishing harm on their opponents, they love, pray for and even delight in the success of their competitors.

They chase not only an earthly crown, but an eternal one that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading.

They know their bodies aren’t their own, therefore they honor God with their bodies.

Paul Dedewo is a World Championships medalist and professional sprinter training in Phoenix at ALTIS. You can follow him on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

This is part of a series called Anatomy of the Athlete. Read earlier works — Starting Five, Be An Anomaly and The Unpleasant Athlete.