We, as athletes do not wish for weakness, nor want anyone to see weakness in us. But weaknesses are instruments that can be used to make us stronger, if we have the courage to face them. In dealing with weaknesses, we must learn to surrender—to admit we have a shortcoming, then be willing to work on it. Sometimes it can be corrected; sometimes it must be accepted. Either way, surrendering will lead to the success of our team and produce maturity in us.

By becoming weak, we give up our rights and become teachable. In 2 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul wrote about surrendering his attitude and lifestyle. He had been asking the Lord to remove a painful weakness in his life; but instead, the Lord helped him understand why the challenge was important. It would help him surrender his rights and depend on God. It is a strange truth, but embracing our weaknesses makes us stronger.

It’s not always easy to surrender. It can be one of our biggest challenges. Paul’s attitude can teach us a lot. He said, “because of Christ, I am pleased in weaknesses, in insults, in catastrophes, in persecutions, and in pressures. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10). Paul stopped complaining about his weakness and began embracing it.