Heart of a Champion: An Athlete’s Identity in GodSample
Understanding Worth
One of the most famous baseball players of all time, Babe Ruth, once held the record of 714 home runs.
But Mr. Ruth had a hard childhood and no one expected him to amount to anything. Although he had a father and mother, because he was labeled “incorrigible,” his parents sent him to an all-boys reform school orphanage.
However, it was there that he began to discover the price of God’s forgiveness and his own love for baseball.
Despite the odds, and everyone’s opinion, he eventually became one of the first baseball players inducted into the Hall of Fame.
His personal and professional life was still riddled with mistakes. But by the time of Ruth’s death, all America clearly knew that his religion and belief in God were a major part of his life.
Babe Ruth’s life could have gone a very different direction had he believed what others thought about him. We too, often find our value in what others say.
“You are amazing!” is one of the sweetest comments we can hear. But what happens when people speak negatively?
When we place our value and identity in human approval, we can go from feeling valued and loved, to shaken; feeling worthless in seconds.
Today’s short film reminds us of the passion Jesus has when pursuing us and the value he assigns his children.
He considers us His priceless treasure. Who can put a value on us when the Most High already has? God, the greatest champion of all, makes it possible for us to be “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37).
We were bought at a high price. God sent Jesus to die so we could have a personal relationship with the Father. He loves us, shortcomings and all.
We must never allow our mistakes or other’s opinions define who or whose we are. We must understand our identity and value in Christ. Only then can we have the heart of a champion and fully appreciate all He has done for us.
Today, may you humbly lay your skills and godly sportsmanship at the feet of your heavenly Coach, so others can see Christ in you and be drawn to Him.
Thank you for finishing the “Heart of a Champion” reading plan. We trust it has helped you determine your true identity as God’s child. Jesus Film Project® would like to offer you a free 20-episode video series called “Leader Impact” to help you grow in your faith.
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We would like to thank Jesus Film Project® ministry for providing this plan. For more information, please visit https://www.jesusfilm.org/ Plan includes clips from the following films:
Doll Face © 2005 Andy Huang.
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Happiness is $1.25 © 2020 Broken Phonebooth Productions
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Not Evelyn Cho © 2009 Global Short Film Network
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Just an Outside Shot © 2014 Global Short Film Network
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
CtrlZ © 2007 CtrlZ Productions
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
Falling Plates © 2012-2020 Cru.
All rights reserved. Used with permission.
Vinyl © 2009 Simplebulldog Studio
All rights reserved. Used with permission.
About this Plan
Being a good athlete requires discipline and hard work. But the desire to be the best comes with hurdles. We often find ourselves placing our identity and self-worth in how well we perform. Yet only when we truly understand our identity as a child of God can we succeed. Using our short films and encouraging daily readings, Jesus Film Project® will help athletes develop the heart of a champion.
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