The Way To Life

The Way to Life

On the Ellen DeGeneres Show, Ronda Rousey, the famous women’s MMA fighter and champion, admitted to Ellen that after her loss to Holly Holm in November 2015, she had considered taking her life. When I heard the interview, I wondered how she could have gotten to that place. Then Rousey spoke of how she had questioned herself, asking, “Who am I if I am not that anymore?” Fortunately, she was able to come out of that dark place and to be honest and vulnerable about her struggle.

I wonder if somehow Ronda Rousey believed a lie that would lead her to the conclusion that she was nothing without success. Maybe we all believe the lie that to never be beaten, to always win, is the way to the life we have always wanted.

Many of us are tempted to believe that climbing the ladder of success so that we can have a fortune and be recognized by our peers is the quest every man should take, because in that destination there is life. If something challenges that success, our foundation erodes.

Scripture tells us a few things to keep in mind as we walk life’s road. First, Proverbs 29:25 says, “Fearing people is a dangerous trap.” In other words, living for the approval of others is a most certain way to become captured by lies.

Second, whatever we do, we are to do it for the Lord. As you seek to excel, do it as unto the Lord. First Corinthians 10:31 states, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

Third, the real way to life is found by being willing to receive correction when we are wrong, because it will set us on the right path, if we will listen. Proverbs 6:23 says, “Their command is a lamp and their instruction a light; their corrective discipline is the way to life.”

Fear God, live for him, and listen for his leading. Let this be your foundation so you can keep fighting.

Their command is a lamp and their instruction a light; their corrective discipline is the way to life.

Proverbs 6:23