For most of my life, soccer was my primary focus and No. 1 priority. Unfortunately, even though I was experiencing success in the sport I loved, my quest to experience peace and happiness was futile. I reached the pinnacle of American soccer when I was drafted to play in Major League Soccer in 1996. My dream had been realized.
My search for peace, however, grew ever more elusive. The peaks and valleys of pro athletics were consuming me, and my life was full of turmoil.
After suffering through a painful and humiliating performance on the soccer field in 1998, I began to question the emphasis I was placing on my career. I began to understand that, over time, my focus had been taken off God and placed on soccer, damaging the relationship that had provided me with peace and happiness earlier in life.
Eventually, I came to understand that peace is only attainable through Christ. I started to place my life in God’s hands, not in the tumultuous events of my soccer career. I still face daily struggles, but through God’s grace and a deep relationship with Jesus Christ, I experience much more peace and joy then ever before. Even after retiring from the game I love in November 2003, I still feel the joy.
And now, as did Paul in Galatians 1:13–24, I have a story to tell. Paul’s testimony saved many people in the early stages of the church. I have seen my story help all kinds of people in their personal faith journeys.
Take some time to formulate your own story of faith. Then tell it to others to help them find salvation in Jesus Christ.