And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” Immediately, the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:23-24, ESV)
A conversation that often arises among golfers is about why some truly great players can’t make it on the Tour or win at “the next level.”
The answer is simple: belief.
You might think that all beliefs are equal, but a moment or two of thinking about that will disabuse you of the idea.
I was playing a match against two friends, me against their best ball. I was one up through 17, on the green in regulation about 25 feet away, and one of my opponents had already made birdie. His partner pointed out to me that I had to make mine for the win.
I said, “I’m fine with that, because I know something.” He guessed, “You’ve had that putt before?”
“No,” I said, “I know I’m a great putter.” And I made the putt.
My belief in my putting at that moment was what made the ball go in. There was not a scintilla of doubt in my mind.
It is not the only shot I have hit with that much confidence, but I have hit many more shots without it.
Where did that come from? It was not bravado, it was a “knowing.” It was almost as strong as the belief I have that Jesus was who he said he was, that he died, was buried, and was raised to life again.
I would love to have that depth of belief on every golf shot – it is great fun. But I am also very familiar with the feeling of the father in the scripture quoted above: “Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.”
So, how can I strengthen my belief?
When it comes to golf, I’ll let David Cook and Bob Rotella be your guides. But when it comes to belief in God – both who he is and the promises he has made – I have a word for you: believe, and your belief will grow. Like the father, what you are asking God for may be beyond your belief. Use the belief you have to ask anyway.
Exercise belief in God by including him in every choice you make, every smile you smile, and every tear you cry. He loves you and is always with you. Believe it.
Prayer: Father, we love you, and we believe. In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen