God's Coaching #353

God's Coaching #353

“I can’t do it” was not a familiar phrase to Anthony Robles during his college wrestling career. With an upper body that looked chiseled out of granite, superb technical skills, and a never-say-never spirit, Anthony put together an impressive four years at Arizona State University. That’s saying a lot, considering the amazing history of the Sun Devils’ program. But here’s the most amazing thing about Anthony’s supremacy on the mat: he had only one leg.

Anthony was born without a right leg. But he never used his physical limitation as an excuse. By high school, he was one of the top wrestlers in the country, winning two Arizona state titles and the 2006 High School Senior Nationals. On this day in 2010, Anthony, the third-ranked 125-pounder in the nation at the time, earned his 100th collegiate victory. He dominated his foes at the Reno Tournament of Champions in Nevada by a cumulative 73–3 score and reeled off five straight wins. Career win 100 was just another accolade in Anthony’s vast trophy case, which already included two straight All-American awards and Pac-10 championships.

What’s the Score?

While Anthony almost always appeared powerful and in control on the mat, there certainly were times when he felt weak. At some point, he must have struggled with his physical limitations as he learned to live with one leg. But even if our bodies are fully formed, we all feel weak at times. It’s a natural human condition. Here’s the good news: God specializes in helping the weak. Isaiah 40:29 says, “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.”

Are you feeling physically or mentally weak right now? God can give you strength. Are you feeling spiritually weak? God can give you the faith needed to follow him. Isn’t it incredible that the all-powerful God of the universe cares about weak mortals like us? God loves showing his power through our weaknesses. It brings him glory and strengthens our faith. So when you feel weak or powerless, take heart. God wants to help!

On the Ball

Push yourself to your physical limit by seeing how many push-ups and sit-ups you can do. When your muscles start to wear down, be reminded that God empowers the weak.

Coach’s Comment

He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Isaiah 40:29