EJ Obiena failed to win a medal in the Olympics and ended up in fourth place. In this post, let me share with you how painful failure can be, and how it can be used to propel us to greater heights in our spiritual life!
Scripture: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Message
Beloved, today we reflect on the heart-wrenching yet inspiring story of EJ Obiena, a Filipino pole vaulter who came heartbreakingly close to winning a medal at the Paris Olympics 2024. Filipinos were in deep elation after Carlos Yulo’s double gold medal wins. A lot of Filipinos were also cheering for EJ who is expected to bag another medal for the country. However, he failed.
In his emotional post, EJ shared his pain of finishing fourth, just shy of ending an 88-year medal drought for the Philippines in athletics. His words resonate deeply, revealing the raw emotions of falling short despite immense effort and dedication.
In his Facebook post, he wrote:
I first want to say thank you to everyone who has followed, supported, and believed in me. 4th place is painful to say the least; and in sports with three podium places, perhaps 4th is the harshest place to be. I am heartbroken that a single failure cost me and cost a nation I so deeply love—the podium. I apologise for this outcome; such is life as the world of competitive sports can be exhilarating at times, and painful at others. I have experienced both and unfortunately today I am on the other side of it!
On a positive note I am proud of what I was actually able to stitch together for this Olympics, with all the struggles that came with this year; but still it hurts to be this close to an Olympic Medal.
As anyone can imagine the reality is still sinking in and I am processing the outcome.
I learned a long time ago to take one day at a time, and that’s exactly what I am going to do. Thank you again for your support and standing by me. I love you all, and we all share a common love and pride for the Philippines. Carlos Yulo has already made this an Olympics to remember and I salute him. I am sorry I didn’t join him on the podium but I will be back. “The good get up” as they say. I have been knocked down. But I will get back up.
Powerful Lessons From Failure
EJ’s journey teaches us a profound truth about failure: Failure is not final; it is only final when you give up. In our spiritual walk, we often stumble and fall. We sin and fall short of God’s glory. Yet, this is not the end of our story. God’s mercy and grace are ever-present, ready to lift us up when we genuinely seek forgiveness and strive to do better.
In his post, EJ wrote, “I have been knocked down. But I will get back up.” This determination mirrors our Christian journey. We may be knocked down by life’s challenges, by our mistakes, and by our sins. But we must remember that failure is not the opposite of success; it is a stepping stone towards it. Each fall teaches us, shapes us, and prepares us for greater things. As Proverbs 24:16 reminds us, “for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again.”
Aim for Perfection
No one is perfect. There are no perfect Christians, just as there are no perfect athletes. Yet, God calls us to aim for perfection. Jesus said in Matthew 5:48, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” God knows we cannot achieve perfection on our own. He knows our limitations and weaknesses. But He also knows that through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ, we are made whole. Whatever we lack, God will supply through His grace.
EJ’s resilience and gratitude despite his disappointment remind us of the importance of perseverance. He thanked those who supported him, acknowledging the shared love and pride for his country. Similarly, in our spiritual walk, we must thank God and those around us who support us through our highs and lows.
Beloved, let us draw strength from EJ’s story and the truth of God’s Word. When we fail, let us not wallow in despair but rise with renewed hope and determination. Remember, God’s grace is sufficient for us, and His power is made perfect in our weakness. Let us aim for perfection, knowing that God is with us every step of the way, turning our failures into stepping stones for His greater glory.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unending grace and mercy. When we fall short, remind us that failure is not final, for You are always ready to lift us up. Help us to see our failures as stepping stones toward the success You have planned for us. Give us the strength to rise again, to persevere, and to aim for the perfection You desire. May we always remember that Your power is made perfect in our weakness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on a time when you felt like you failed. How did you respond? Did you give up, or did you get back up? Remember, God’s grace is sufficient for you. He is always there, ready to turn your failures into stepping stones for a greater purpose. Trust in Him and keep moving forward.
Action Step
This week, identify an area in your life where you feel you have failed. Pray for God’s guidance and strength to rise again. Take a small step towards improvement, knowing that each step, no matter how small, is part of God’s plan for your growth and success. Share your journey with a trusted friend or mentor, and encourage each other to persevere in faith.
Support Our Work
Support us by joining the Becoming Christians Membership program! As a member, you’ll receive daily inspiring devotionals, insightful articles, and impactful videos. Sign up today and grow in your faith with us!
