“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!” - 1 Corinthians 15:57
Our girls’ volleyball team just won state, and it was so exciting! Seeing their hard work, dedication, sheer talent and determination all come to fruition was amazing. These girls were united as a team and stood strong in the face of some very tough competition. They also had a great coach leading them and the full support of the student cheering section, which traveled across the state on several weekends in order to cheer the girls on.
In part of the student section, there was a very devoted group of boys who cheered, yelled and sincerely watched the team with pride. Along with the other students, they supported the volleyball team and, no matter what, showed the girls that they were on their side ready to pick them up if they were down or celebrate with them if they won. They were loyal, committed fans, and the team played hard knowing that they had such a strong support system.
It’s amazing how sports can so often perfectly imitate our relationship with Jesus Christ. In this case, it is a perfect picture of Him: our ultimate cheering section. He watches us with great joy and pride, and, mistakes or no mistakes, He loves us until the end. He travels with us wherever we go. He is loyal, committed and, certainly, His love is greater than all others.
Sometimes, though, even if we may know this in our minds, it still seems so easy to recognize and accept the support and love of those around us, but so difficult to grasp the love of Jesus. Maybe this is because we know our imperfections; because we know we can give more; because we feel unworthy. Even if this is true, His love still surpasses all, and, while He knows our imperfections too, He still forgives us—completely, totally.
Today, as you prepare your heart for Christmas and get ready to celebrate the birth of our Savior, remember that He came to us in the most humble of beginnings: in an animal-filled stable as a tiny baby, and was welcomed by a world that couldn’t begin to understand this miracle. Choose to believe what God’s Word says about Christ and His love and support of you, regardless of where you’ve been or what you’ve done. Believe in miracles and be open to all that He has in store for you, knowing that Jesus came so that we might be saved and redeemed and able to share this good news with others. Remember that Jesus is with you in every situation—every moment of every day—cheering you on to eternal victory!
1. Describe the best cheering section you’ve ever had as an athlete or coach. What made it great?
2. What are some similarities between that cheering section and Christ as our ultimate encourager?
3. How does Christ surpass earthly cheering sections?
4. How would your life be different if you truly believed that Christ loved you and encouraged you regardless of your sins and shortcomings?
5. What are you doing to prepare for the celebration of His birth? To remember that is more than decorations and presents under the tree, write a list of the blessings in your life, wrap them and place them under the tree to open Christmas morning as a way of remembering all the true gifts in your life.
Psalm 106:1
1 Corinthians 9:25
1 John 3:1
1 John 5:4-5