Sudden throwing issues in baseball are still a mystery, but most experts believe it’s based on fear. Players call it “the Yips” and try not to talk or think about it.

The Yips cause players a mental hurdle that won’t permit them to complete one of the game’s mundane on-field tasks. Infielders suddenly can’t find the first baseman’s glove on routine throws. Catchers can’t perform the simple task of throwing the ball to the pitcher. “It’s the real deal,” said Jason Tyner, who played in the big leagues from 2000-2008. “These guys are throwing the ball 50 feet off their mark. Or they spike one halfway. I don’t even know how to describe it.”

The Yips have tormented players such as Steve Sax and Chuck Knoblauch. Knoblauch moved to left field from second base after he could no longer throw the ball to first base. There doesn’t seem to be a clear explanation for the Yips. Still, some players and coaches believe it is due to fear of failure and lack of faith in the player’s ability to complete the throw.

2 Thessalonians 2 – Mistaken Beliefs

What we believe about the future impacts how we play sports and how we view the world. Second Thessalonians 2 includes Paul’s argument against the false teaching that was causing some to become fearful of the future. Many were confused about the end-times events. This led to fear or mistaken belief that some children of God would somehow miss out on Christ’s rescue plan.

Paul didn’t want the Thessalonians to live in fear but faith. Focusing on our salvation in Christ is better than fearing the darkness. He didn’t want them to be overly concerned about the future Antichrist as they waited for Christ’s return. Knowing what the Bible teaches about the future helps us focus on the right things.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete eagerly expect the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him (2 Thessalonians 2:1). They don’t allow false information (2:2) to shake their faith.