WHEN YOUR CONFIDENCE FALLS SHORT
1 John 3:21–4:6
In a few weeks, the 2026 Winter Olympics will once again draw attention as top athletes from around the world gather in Italy. Most Olympians spend years training in order to have a brief window of time to compete and demonstrate their abilities. These athletes are among the best in the world, and one key trait all these athletes share is confidence. Through setbacks, training and practice, confidence becomes an unseen yet vital part of the competitor’s character.
Maturing Christians recognize their own shortcomings, failures and mistakes. Giving in to temptation can shake even the strongest among us, causing us to lose confidence or weaken our resolve to follow Christ.
During these times, it is wise to remember that we are never meant to live the Christian life without Christ’s help from the very beginning. The truth is, we cannot do it without Him. “Christ with us” is the greatest assurance and promise we have.
We stand confidently as we remain in Christ and obey Him. (3:21–24)
Have you ever heard the motto, “It’s not what you know but who you know”? This is most accurately reflected in our relationship with and dependence on Christ. The Bible does not instruct us to do our best, try harder or build stronger self-confidence. Instead, we are told to rely on Jesus, die to ourselves, humble ourselves and stay connected to Christ. Frustration and disappointment will follow if we neglect the strength only Jesus can provide and attempt to follow Him in our flesh. Our confidence is in the finished work and perpetual power of the Savior.
Not everyone who claims to speak for God walks in the truth of Christ. (4:1–3)
Many people talk about Jesus but do not truly know Him in a life-changing way. Today more than ever, false teachers, heretics and scammers flood television, social media and churches.
It’s understandable when Christians disagree on minor aspects of Scripture, but it is unacceptable to let blatant heresy and a distorted gospel take hold in our places of worship. We can only recognize this as we study God’s Word and are guided to understanding by the Holy Spirit.
We stand confidently because the One we stand in is victorious. (4–6)
At the Olympics, the top three athletes stand on a raised podium while their national anthem plays and they receive their medals. As Americans, we take pride in seeing one of our own succeed. You and I may never experience the feeling of being an Olympian, but for a moment, we share a small sense of ownership in the victory because it’s a fellow American. As they stand confidently, we also feel a deep sense of pride.
With a deeper understanding, we should be willing and eager to stand for Christ. We are aware that every blessing we have received is from Him and not from ourselves. We can stand because He laid down His life for us.
Because of His great victory over sin and death, we too have reason to celebrate. When your confidence is in Christ, you will never be disappointed.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
