ATHENS (BP)–Onlookers in the Olympic stadium and a worldwide TV audience expect the United States to win a gold medal in the 4×100-meter relay in Athens.
But if not, relay team member Coby Miller knows that God’s hand will be on the outcome of the race -– as well as guiding his life.
“Just because you’re a Christian doesn’t mean you’re going to win every time you go out there,” Miller said in an interview with Baptist Press. “You’re trying to walk the walk with God and everything, and you realize that things aren’t always going to be a bed of roses for you.”
It took some time for Miller to arrive at that conclusion. Although he made a profession of faith in 1995, it wasn’t until about two years ago that he became more devoted to Christ. A campus minister at Auburn University, Dave Reed, helped Miller in his spiritual walk.
Now Miller is learning how to stay the course in his faith.
“God has a purpose for everything, and He will be in control no matter what,” Miller said. “I have to learn to love God despite all my ups and downs and still realize that only what I do for God will last.”
Miller also is getting bolder in witnessing to his fellow athletes. He tries to communicate to them not only that God is in control, but that He will take care of them if they make Him their priority in life.
During the Olympic trials in Sacramento last month, Miller also became the first person ever to run the 100 meters in less than 10 seconds and not qualify for the event. His time of 9.99 seconds was good enough for fourth place, making him the first alternate in the 100 meters but giving him a spot on the relay team.
Miller is no stranger to the Olympics, finishing seventh in the 200-meter dash in the 2000 games in Sydney, Australia.
He’s looking for better things when the 4×100 relay wraps up Aug. 28, but regardless of the outcome, he wants to be faithful to Scripture’s command and work as if he’s working for the Lord.
“My new perspective is if I win, I’m going to be focused on giving God the glory,” Miller said. “When I step on the track, it should be all about God and not about me. Whether I win or lose, I know that it will all be done for God.”
–30–
