Bummer!

Well, I am certainly identifying with several of you right now.  Some of you are facing injury and have been “set aside” for a time of healing and recovery.  I’m kind of feeling your pain.  I have a knee issue that I thought would be taken care of with surgery.  However, as it turns out, I do not have any meniscus on that side of my knee.  The Xray was a bit ugly as I saw a definitive picture of “bone on bone”.   My training was accelerating and on track. I was dropping some weight and increasing my speed.  And, now… 

The sinking “bummeristic” feeling is just no fun.  I want to encourage you as you face this challenging time of injury. So, knowing how passionate you are about your sport and having poured your heart into it as you have, I am feeling very empathetic toward wanting to offer a little encouragement that you will hopefully find helpful.   When setbacks happen, it’s natural to feel frustrated, and very discouraged. But, you know what?  We can find great comfort and strength in God’s Word.

1. God is with you in the struggle
In moments of weakness, injury, or any form of trial, it’s important to remember that God is not distant. He is present with you. In Isaiah 41:10, the Lord says,
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Even when your body feels weak, God’s strength is made perfect in your weakness.

(2 Corinthians 12:9). Lean on Him during this time, knowing that He’s walking this journey with you.

2. Your identity is in Christ, not performance
As an athlete, it’s easy to tie your identity to your performance. But remember, your worth is not measured by what you can do physically—it’s rooted in who you are in Christ. Galatians 2:20 reminds us,
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Your life has incredible value, not because of what you accomplish, but because you belong to Christ. Let that truth bring you peace as you heal.

3. There is a purpose in the pain
It can be hard to see the bigger picture when you’re hurting, but God has a plan even in the midst of your suffering. Romans 8:28 encourages us,
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
While this injury may seem like a setback, trust that God can use this season to refine you, teach you, and prepare you for something greater. Maybe He’s giving you time to reflect, grow in other areas, or develop a deeper reliance on Him.

4. Patience and perseverance will lead to growth
Recovery takes time, and the process can be slow and difficult. But through it all, God is shaping your character. James 1:2-4 says,
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Every step of this journey can help strengthen your faith and trust in God. As you persevere, you’ll grow not only as an athlete but as a follower of Christ.

5. God has the final victory
Take heart knowing that this injury does not define your future. No matter what happens, God has the final victory, and your ultimate hope is in Him. Philippians 4:13 boldly proclaims,
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
This verse isn’t just about physical strength but about the power of Christ to carry you through any challenge—whether it’s on the track, the runway, or the ring or in a season of healing.

As you recover, take time to rest, reflect, and draw closer to God. He is not finished with your story, and this season of difficulty can become a testimony of His faithfulness. You are more than an athlete; you are a beloved child of God, and He will continue to work through you, even in the hardest moments.

In prayer and faith,
I am believing that God will strengthen you, heal you, and use this season for good. Trust Him in this process and know that He holds your future.

In Christ’s Love,

Larry