The Power of Student Athletes in Combating Complacency

Complacency is a state of mind where people become too comfortable with their current circumstances, making themselves apathetic about striving for personal growth or change. This attitude has become more prevalent in American society, likely due to the greater availability of resources and opportunities relative to other countries, which allows us to take our accomplishments and successes for granted without feeling the need to strive further.

 

Complacency poses a specific threat to faith-filled student-athletes, potentially steering them away from their spiritual convictions and towards external rewards. This danger is compounded by the fact that complacency tends to breed pride, which undermines humility.

 

In Exodus, Pharaoh demonstrated complacency when he responded to Moses' request to remove the plague of frogs by saying, "tomorrow." By assuming that things would improve independently without taking immediate action, Pharaoh disregarded the situation's urgency and overconfidence in his ability to control the outcome. Christians can apply this lesson by recognizing the importance of taking action in our home lives, workplaces, and local communities rather than expecting results quickly. We should be proactive and take the initiative whenever possible instead of relying on just words or wishes. We should also seek opportunities for growth and development, such as furthering our education or volunteering in the community, as these steps will help us progress toward success over time. Finally, we must avoid becoming too comfortable with where we are; complacency leads to stagnation, whereas ambition brings progress and advancement.

 

Proverbs 6:9-11 states, "How long will you lie there, lazybones? When will you wake up? A little extra sleep, a little more slumber, A little folding of the hands— Then poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber." This verse relates to student-athletes by emphasizing the importance of working hard and avoiding complacency. Being too comfortable in any aspect could make them overconfident in their efforts, resulting in less than satisfactory outcomes due to a lack of diligence or effort.

 

Student-athletes of faith should stay devoted to their coursework and workouts, remain active, and devote their skills and abilities to serving their communities. This approach helps individuals develop holistically and provides opportunities for them to positively influence and make a difference in the lives of those around them. Through the example of these student-athletes, we can ensure that Christianity continues to be a source of strength for many generations to come.