Tiger Woods will never win again. Tiger will never be able to dominate the field again. Tiger will never have as many fans as he used to. Tiger will never be healthy. Tiger will never get his swing back. Tiger will never be able to play again.
Those were the thoughts and opinions of many fans and analysts over the last five years as Tiger struggled with back surgeries, off the course issues, and poor performances during tournaments. He’s had a crazy personal journey and a remarkable golf career since bursting onto the scene in the mid-90s.
Yesterday, Tiger added an impressive chapter to his story by winning his 5th Green Jacket and 15th Major Championship.
Tiger could have easily given up on himself years ago, as most people did, but he's proven the “nevers” don’t stop him - they only motivate him to keep persevering. The “nevers” only enhance the story and reveal exactly what he's overcome to achieve victory again.
Every one of us has “nevers” that come from within or from the critics in our lives. Do any of these thoughts sound familiar?
I’ll never get a good job.
I’ll never be married.
I’ll never break my habit.
I’ll never find good friends.
I’ll never change.
I’ll never be good enough.
Or, I’ll never get through this difficulty.
When we allow ourselves to believe these types of “nevers,” we’re not operating with faith and hope. We’re focused on our current circumstances, our limited understanding, and the present reality, instead of focusing on God’s truth, power, and faithfulness. We must believe He can turn our “nevers” into victory, which always reveal His glory and goodness.
So how do we combat the negative thinking in our lives and the times we feel discouraged by our “nevers?” Scripture enables us to replace them with encouraging and uplifting “nevers” that strengthen us to persevere:
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end…” (Lamentations 3:22 - ESV).
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for He has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'"(Hebrews 13:5 - ESV).
“Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word, he will never see death" (John 8:51 - ESV).
God never lies (Titus 1:2).
Each one of these truths reminds us of God’s character and what we have available as His followers. Today, let’s allow these biblical “nevers” to enhance our journey as we rely on Him to help us overcome the other “nevers” that try to defeat us.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for always being loving, faithful, and good. Thank you for always providing mercy and grace. I pray You would strengthen me to persevere as I cling to Your truth. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
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