Midway through summer, never midway in faith
It is hard to believe we have already reached the midpoint of summer. It seems like just yesterday schools were letting out, pools were opening, and calendars were filling with vacations, tournaments, and family gatherings. Before we know it, school supplies will begin filling the shelves, football practices will replace baseball games, and another season will quietly come to an end.
For many families, this time of year has been filled with memories. We’ve traveled to new places, packed up campers, spent long days at the lake, and gathered around campfires under the stars. Others have spent countless evenings at the ballfields cheering on sons and daughters in baseball and softball. Our local swim teams have competed in meet after meet, learning discipline, perseverance, and teamwork with every lap they swim.
Summer has a way of keeping us wonderfully busy.
There is something beautiful about watching a young baseball player strike out only to step confidently back into the batter’s box the next inning. Softball players learn that one bad inning does not define the game. Swimmers discover that the race is won not by one perfect stroke, but by consistent effort from start to finish. Coaches remind athletes to keep their eyes on the goal, trust their training, and never quit before the finish line. Those lessons don’t just belong on the field or at the pool. They are reminders for our walk with Christ as well.
In the middle of a busy summer, it can be easy for our spiritual lives to drift into the background. Vacation schedules replace Sunday routines. Late nights make early worship more difficult. Quiet mornings with Scripture become rushed as we hurry to the next destination. None of these things are wrong in themselves, but if we’re not careful, they can slowly pull our attention away from the One who gives us every good gift.
The midpoint of summer is a wonderful opportunity to pause and ask ourselves a simple question: How is my walk with the Lord? Just as an athlete doesn’t stop practicing halfway through the season, we cannot put our faith on hold until life slows down. In fact, the busiest seasons are often when we need God the most.
Isaiah 40:31 reminds us: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Notice that God doesn’t promise a life without running or growing tired. He promises renewed strength for those who place their hope in Him.
Many of us know what it feels like to become physically exhausted after a week of tournaments, swim meets, family trips, or long workdays. Yet spiritual exhaustion can sneak up on us even faster. The good news is that our Heavenly Father never grows weary. He is always faithful, always present, and always ready to renew our hearts when we seek Him.
As parents, grandparents, coaches, and mentors, we also have a unique opportunity during these summer months. Every ballgame, every road trip, and every vacation provide moments to point our children toward Christ. A conversation after a tough loss can teach perseverance. A beautiful sunset over the lake can remind us of our Creator. A family prayer before leaving on vacation reminds everyone that God travels with us wherever we go.
Summer will soon come to an end. The trophies will eventually collect dust. The tan lines will fade. Vacation photos will become cherished memories. The scores of the games will be forgotten.
But our relationship with Jesus Christ is eternal.
So as we enjoy the remainder of this wonderful season, let us remember not only to make memories with our families but also to make time for the One who has blessed us with those families. Continue gathering for worship. Continue reading God’s Word. Continue praying together. Continue encouraging one another in faith.
The race of the Christian life is not a sprint but a marathon, and our Heavenly Father walks every step beside us. As we move into the second half of summer, may we do so with grateful hearts, renewed faith, and our eyes fixed firmly on Jesus. May God bless the rest of your summer, keep your families safe in their travels, and remind each of us daily that while seasons change, His love and faithfulness never do.
Ozark Christian College ~ BA Biblical Studies Lincoln Christian College ~ Masters in Theology Liberty University ~ PhD Practical Theology (Fall 2026)