Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Many leaders today are feeling exhausted, often pushing themselves to the limit in an attempt to keep up with life's demands. Over the past 18 months, I’ve learned this lesson firsthand, juggling more than 100 speaking events, a rebrand, a merger, and the challenges of leading a company. In an on-demand world, we often confuse busyness with progress, wearing ourselves down in the process. Like my truck, which is limited to 95 mph, our lives have limits. No matter how hard we press the gas, we can only go so fast for so long. When we redline our lives, relationships and our souls suffer. We were made for a slower, more intimate connection with God. The Bible reminds us to “lead a quiet life” (1 Thessalonians 4:11) and to find rest in Jesus, who promises, “Come to me, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). If you're feeling worn out, it might be time to slow down. Consider these practices to find rest: Sleep: Aim for 8 hours of good sleep each night. Read the Bible slowly: Turn quick reading into meaningful quiet time. Pray continuously: Cultivate an ongoing conversation with Jesus. Life’s pace will sometimes push your limits, but above all, guard your heart. No one else can lead your soul but you—and only Jesus can give it rest. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to lead well and acknowledge our need for Your refreshment. Renew us daily through prayer, Your Word, and the rest we need. In Jesus’ name, amen. —Randy Gravitt, CEO, LeadEveryDay.com ?? https://lnkd.in/ggAZp2qd #ministryimpact #leadership #fca

More than two years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Andrew Chernenkov’s life has found a “new normal.” In Rivne, where FCA Ukraine is based, daily life has mostly resumed despite power outages, air sirens and tragic news updates. Sports ministry efforts continue, though the country remains a war zone. Chernenkov, known to friends as “Che,” said the conflict has deepened his faith, teaching him to cherish each day. He and his wife, Olya, came to Christianity through FCA in 2008, and Che joined FCA Ukraine’s staff a year later. He now serves as the West Region Multi-Area Director. As tensions rose before the invasion, FCA Ukraine began preparing for humanitarian efforts. When the conflict started, the team was ready to serve those affected, using the FCA Sports Center to help displaced families and launching the Hope Wins program to aid soldiers in recovery. Despite challenges like power outages and air raid alarms, FCA resumed its ministry shortly after the war began. The organization hosted sports camps, provided essential resources and supported local and displaced families. Chernenkov noted the openness to the Gospel that he’s seen during these difficult times. He remains hopeful for peace and is dedicated to rebuilding FCA’s ministry across Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of living each day with faith. ?? https://bit.ly/4eKv68V #fca #fcateam #fcaukraine #ministryimpact

You have a field of influence. Wherever you compete, a community is watching. But here’s the real question: Do you see them? ?? Imagine coming together with fellow athletes to take on the ultimate challenge — to read the Bible daily and grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ and His church. Fields of Faith is your chance to ignite a movement and change the culture in your community. For over 20 years, God has used Fields of Faith to engage athletes with the Good News, equip them with God’s Word, and empower them with the Great Commission. ???? Today, this movement has expanded to reach anyone, anywhere, anytime. Will you be part of it? https://lnkd.in/gKax-pHX #FieldsOfFaith #FCA #ChangeTheCulture #FaithInAction

Jesus offers everything we need for a life of true abundance. Just like making a team fills us with pride and excitement, living for what matters to us gives purpose. But if we put our hope in things that crumble, it leads to disappointment. Building our lives on God's love, however, creates a foundation that never fails. Jesus came to give us life overflowing with joy, hope, and grace. Where the enemy seeks to destroy, Jesus, our good Shepherd, offers unity and light. Living close to God fills us with joy, even in trials, and hope that never fades. His grace overflows, guiding us back to His love when we stumble. Choose to live from this overflow, embracing the abundant life Jesus promises. What are the things that drain you, and what things fill you up? What do you need to live a life overflowing in Christ? ??: https://lnkd.in/ggwmVKn5 #fca247 #ready #fromtheoverflow

Ready? You've gone through a spiritual reset, and now it's time to step into boldness. You're ready to share the Gospel, make disciples and live from the overflow of Christ in you. Every day, you're becoming more prepared to show your faith, and the Holy Spirit is stirring a deeper desire in you - to serve others. This act of service not only expresses God's love but also opens the door for sharing the Gospel, reaching those close to you and beyond your comfort zone. Serving is an essential part of your new purpose in Christ. As you step into your gifts, get ready to leave behind overwhelm and embrace the overflowing joy and peace that He promises. Discover more ??: https://lnkd.in/gwaUT8z3 #fca247 #ready #fromtheoverflow

Fields of Faith is in full swing with a new look. What is Fields of Faith? It is an FCA-certified ministry program where athletes gather at sports environments in their communities to challenge their peers to read the Bible daily and grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and His church. Today, the movement of Fields of Faith has grown to reach anyone, anywhere, at any time. Where's your field? Be a part of the movement. Find your field here: https://bit.ly/47Ys0ff #FieldsofFaith #FCA

Meet Alexandra Albano, a sophomore softball player at Converse University who has experienced radical renewal through Christ. Arriving on campus in 2022, Alexandra carried the weight of grief, having lost her brother Bryant just a few years prior. But that December, she surrendered her life to Christ, influenced by the example of her teammate Grace McKinney. Since then, Alexandra has embraced her faith, leading her team’s FCA Huddle, connecting with a local church and even baptizing a teammate last fall. Her journey has been seeking community, growing in faith and stepping into her calling as a disciple-maker. Through her involvement in FCA, Alexandra has learned to integrate her faith with softball, glorifying God in every aspect of her game—wins, losses, and everything in between. She says, “When winning the game was no longer my greatest dream, and He simply became the dream, that is when it all fell into place.” Alexandra’s story is a powerful reminder that God can meet us in our brokenness, renew our hearts, and lead us to impact others. No matter where you are, trust that God has a plan for your life, and like Alexandra, let’s step into it with faith and humility. #FaithAndSports #FCATeam #ChristFirst #Disciple #Renewal ??: https://bit.ly/3XNDU70

Shift your focus from winning to God's purpose. We need to adopt a new perspective on athletics—playing and competing for something bigger than championships. David’s story of defeating Goliath teaches us this. He didn’t fight for personal gain but to honor God. Similarly, our purpose in competition should be to glorify God, understanding that life continues beyond the wins and losses. So, how can we compete for something greater? When you run into a challenge, try to see it as a way of refinement and look for God to show up in it. ?? https://lnkd.in/gTtyDgrt #fca247 #refuel #competeformore

Just as athletes require intentional rest to recover and excel, we, too, need the spiritual refreshment that comes from engaging in authentic community. Surrounding ourselves with others who share our faith strengthens our resolve and reminds us that we are never journeying alone. Through life groups, mentorship, or shared moments of prayer, community provides the space to refuel, reflect, and grow, equipping us to face life’s challenges with renewed strength and purpose. "Let us not give up meeting together... but encourage one another." - Hebrews 10:25 Invest in your community, refuel your spirit, and run the race with endurance and grace. #RefuelWithCommunity #fca247 #refuel #PurposeDriven

You don't have to do it all. Paul emphasizes three key themes in his message: Children of the Light: Believers are called to live as redeemed children of the light, carrying God's truth and grace. Armor of Faith, Love, and Salvation: Christians are encouraged to wear spiritual armor—faith, love, and salvation—providing protection and strength in life's challenges. The Role of Community: Paul stresses the importance of community for mutual encouragement, accountability, and growth, showing how believers can help each other stand firm in their faith. Together, these elements foster encouragement, strength, and victory, supported by a community of believers rooted in Christ. If you don't have these people around you yet, pray that God would bring the right people you could invite to meet with on a regular basis. We are better together. ?? https://lnkd.in/gCqUzXqR #fca247 #refuel