Early in the 2008 college football season, Florida was stunned at home by Ole Miss, losing 31 to 30. Tim Tebow, the Florida quarterback who had already had great success, was now faced with rising from the ashes. In a moment of weakness and humiliation, he told the world that his team would not lose again in that situation. 

 

People sat up and took notice, mostly because Tim Tebow was an outspoken Christian. More than a few people rolled their eyes. Not many thought the promise would hold since Florida would have to roll through undefeated the rest of the way in the country’s toughest conference. They did roll though. 

 

At the end of the year, facing Oklahoma’s history-making offense, the Florida Gators locked the Sooners down and won a national championship. As the confetti fell, Tim Tebow looked up and thanked the one who had really kept the promise.

 

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

 

Knowing the source of true strength is a comforting thought, and it gives us quiet confidence. 

 

Let’s pray. 

 

Lord, in adversity we find out who we really are. Our identity is in Christ, whose strength takes the burden off of us. In Jesus’ name, amen.