The year is 2010, and my mom begins telling me that playing golf would be a valuable investment for the future. High school athletics mandated that you chose two sports to play, so begrudgingly, I opted for golf. I remember learning some of the basics, and playing a tournament at Randolph Air Force Base. I remember a similar situation when Texas State University required a couple of physical fitness courses, at that point sharpening and picking up golf again seemed interesting (my mom didn’t let me forget that it was her initial idea). Fast forward into young-adult life, and through a few circles, I decided to pick it back up. I’m still learning, but getting better. I’m gaining confidence, but humbly aware of where I need to put in work. Most of all, I’m strengthened and filled by any time spent on the course with a good friend. I’m working on my swing. There’s plenty of spiritual application here:
Don’t be so anxious in the tee box. | Performance anxiety is a common thing to mankind; in my case, I desire to not look like an idiot or to not be a drag on anyone else’s fun/competition. Those desires can be good self-awareness, but it can also quickly become idols and inhibitors. God commands us to not be anxious, and I often forget how that command is indicative of the fact that I don’t have to be if I choose to believe His promise is true, and choose to believe in the way His lovingkindness works in my life. When it’s time to drive the ball, you might hit it straight and far or you might supply the next teenagers on tiktok with another golf-ball to pull out of the water and resell – regardless of the outcome, there’s no need to be anxious – in the tee box, or in life.
Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 5:6-7
You’re good at this. | You have gifts, friend. What does that mean? Everyone that is a child of God has been gifted with spiritual gifts for the purpose of advancing and edifying His kingdom. The realization and application of these gifts come with time, consistency, and a Holy Spirit led self-awareness. God has made you to be strong in a way that brings Him glory. Find it, develop it, use it for Him. Whether it’s driving straight and far, or pitching like Tiger Woods on the 16th hole at the 2005 Master’s – you’re good at something as a gift from God – be confident in that eternal truth.
Put your weight on your heels. | A small correction can make a big difference. Weight distribution, grip strength… small details make a grand difference. Friend, it would behoove you to practice the spiritual disciplines. Biblical intake, prayer, confession, fasting, secrecy, the list goes on… Do the work and utilize the tools that God gives us to better relate to Him and others. It will make all the difference.
My mom hasn’t let me forget that it was her idea years ago for me to pickup golf. Now that I thoroughly enjoy it, it’s become one of many things that God kindly uses to give me multiple layers of spiritual application and awareness. I pray that if you’re reading this that you look at the world with spiritual eyes (1 Corinthians 2:6-16), and see what a kind and loving God wants to teach you through your every day experience.
Work on your swing, friends.
Special thanks to Ryan Joseph Mikula for the quotes above – I’m less anxious in the tee box, I’m more confident at my ability, and my weight is on my heels (I’m paying attention to the small details) in golf and in life – all thanks to your encouragement and friendship (Proverbs 17:17).
Words matter. 