Taking a knee became a topic of contention after Colin Kaepernick took a knee before NFL games to protest police brutality toward the black community. While that led some players to join him, nothing too crazy followed other than the division between fans who supported his protest and those who didn’t. It only looks to become more controversial with players being asked to sign “woke contracts” that require them to kneel for the national anthem in 2020.

Ephesians 3 – Claim Christ’s Strength

Taking a knee during the Apostle Paul’s day meant something very different. In Ephesians 3, he points believers toward spreading the good news and praying for the Ephesians. This prayer highlights God’s power and Christ’s love. His prayer closes with a declaration of praise to God for his greatness and glory.

During Paul’s day, kneeling wasn’t the normal prayer position. It was customary for Jews to stand. Kneeling would indicate an extraordinary event or unusual passion. For example, on the eve of Jesus’ death, He fell to the ground in agonized emotion as He prayed to His Father (Mark 14:35, 36).

Whatever our circumstances, we need to follow Paul’s example to pray before God and claim Christ’s strength (3:16). Paul reminds the readers that we are all in constant danger of becoming discouraged. (3:13). The solution is not found in hearing another motivational talk or reading a book on self-worth. Depending on the Spirit’s strength and power is the only answer Paul teaches in chapter 3. We are weak when we rely on ourselves. However, when we wait on Him and depend on Him, our strength is renewed and our spirits refreshed, as taught in Isaiah 40:29.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete believe confidence comes from God’s Spirit that is within them. They keep Christ at the center of their lives, letting Him shape their attitudes, values, choices, and actions to be more like Him. Their goal in sports and life is to be conformed to His image (Romans 8:29).

Bible Memory Verse – For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 (LSB)