READY:

“I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.” – 2 Corinthians 7:4 (NIV)

“Love the game. Love the game for the pure joy of accomplishment. Love the game for everything it can teach you about yourself…..” - Unknown

SET:

The amazing story of surfer Bethany Hamilton has recently come to life in the movie, Soul Surfer. At the age of thirteen, Bethany lost her left arm when attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark. After losing more than 60% of her blood and undergoing several surgeries, it appeared the career of the rising star was over. Bethany began her recovery with an unbelievably positive attitude and within one month was back in the water. One year later she won her first National Championship. Bethany turned pro in 2007 and her best finish to date was a second place finish in the 2009 World Junior Championships.

As incredible as this story is, the title of the movie is also intriguing. What exactly is a soul surfer? A little research reveals that the term originated in the 1970’s and was used to refer to a talented surfer who surfs for the pure pleasure of it. Although they may enter competitions, a soul surfer’s motives go beyond the act of competing. Despite distractions and setbacks, the soul surfer just wants to be in the water. In life, it is so easy to get caught up in the competition and our personal problems that we neglect the pure pleasure of being in the water? The Apostle Paul certainly understood this. Paul was locked up, beat up, and often messed up, but he never shut up! His joy came from sharing the life changing message of the gospel. The imprisonment, beatings and personal setbacks were just minor distractions. Amen?

GO:

1. Have you forgotten the joy of “being in the water”?

2. What distractions have caused you to lose your focus?

3. What will it take to regain your focus?

WORKOUT:

Matthew 28:8
Romans 12:12
Hebrews 12:2