Representing (Olympics Devotional Series - Day 5)

It is truly an honor for athletes to earn their way to the Olympics after years of hard work and dedication. They are there to represent themselves, their family, their coaches, and their country. From the opening ceremony with flags waving, to the medal ceremonies with national anthems playing, the competitors embrace the responsibility and pride of representing their home country. It’s remarkable how confident, bold, and transparent athletes are when displaying their affection. These Olympic athletes want everyone to know their country’s greatness and the importance of winning for their homeland. As followers of Jesus, we often say we love God, but don’t always reveal the same openness and passion when representing Him to the world around us. We should joyfully proclaim to everyone our love for the Savior who graciously redeemed us. If athletes can be proud to swim a lap in the pool or long jump for their country, shouldn’t we be honored to live our lives committed to glorifying Jesus Christ? The Bible says in Luke 12:8-10 (NLT), “I tell you the truth, everyone who acknowledges Me publicly here on earth, the Son of Man will also acknowledge in the presence of God’s angels. But anyone who denies Me here on earth will be denied before God’s angels.” Matthew 10:32-33 (ESV) reads: “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before My Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies Me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.” Olympians have the chance to represent their country every four years. As followers of Jesus, we have the privilege of representing and acknowledging our Provider, Protector, and Creator every day, so the world knows who we live for. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity to acknowledge Jesus before others. Please give me the awareness and boldness to proudly declare my allegiance in the right situations and conversations. Forgive me for being shy or cowardly at times. Help me to be strong in representing You proudly. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.