Eastern Iowa FCA

Friday Devotion

✨ Right Recognition

God recognizes our heart and motivations, and His affirmation is the notice we need.

Many athletes seek the approval and recognition of their coaches, teammates and even their fans. We want to be noticed and may feel like we must prove ourselves worthy.

As Christ followers, on the other hand, we should strive only to please the One who truly matters.

He recognizes us not for what we do but for who we are, a child of the Almighty God. He not only recognizes us, but He created us to love us. He loves us so much that He sent His only Son to save us and give us eternal life through Him. He has chosen us to be in His family and on His team.

Jesus is Our Example

"The one who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, because I always do what pleases him." — John 8:29

The world encourages us to seek validation from others, but Scripture emphasizes the importance of finding our worth in God alone, rather than in human opinions.

Paul spoke of seeking the approval and recognition of man versus God.

"For am I now trying to persuade people, or God? Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ."* — Galatians 1:10

We aren’t driven by applause, achievement or accolades—our motivation is to seek and serve God in our everyday work and our sport, honoring Him.

💙 Live It Out

"Remain in me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me." — John 15:4

Questions for Reflection
• Are there times when you seek the recognition and approval of others in your sport or in life?
• How does that compare to knowing that you are loved, called, chosen and approved by your heavenly Father?

Written by Mark Long, FCA Endurance Director.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever.

1 Chronicles 16:34