Miracle to Meltdown?

Growing Daily

Miracle to Meltdown?

Another Olympic chapter is drawing to a close.  But no Winter Games feels complete without revisiting the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” — a true David vs. Goliath showdown.  The young Americans skated in as underdogs and left as legends, taking down the seemingly invincible Soviet “Red Machine.”

People often forget that this iconic victory—one of the most celebrated moments in sports—was not the gold medal game.  Team USA pulled off the impossible, but still had one more opponent to face. One more test of focus and discipline.

Imagine the tragedy if they assumed the hardest work was behind them and lost their edge to a lesser opponent.  “From Miracle to Meltdown” would be a crushing headline the team would never live down.

Just as athletes are cautioned against overconfidence, Scripture offers the same advice to Christians.  1 Corinthians 10:12 puts it this way: “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.”

Spiritual victories can be dangerous moments.  After a breakthrough or answer to prayer, it’s tempting to coast. We assume the battle is over. Prayers grow less fervent. Focus on God fades. We become vulnerable. 

The Christian life isn’t defined by one great moment of faith, but by steady prayer, obedience, and dependence on God. Victories will come and go, but faithfulness is revealed after the celebration fades.


- Ron Reid