Almost

The word “almost” means very nearly, but not quite. It describes being on the edge of completion, success, or attainment—close enough to touch it, but falling short of the final step.

In life and sports, “almost” can feel like defeat, but it can also be the spark that pushes someone to the victory they’re chasing.

Philippians 3:13–14 (ESV): “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

James 1:2–4 (ESV): “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

In sports, we’ve all felt the sting of almost—the game lost by a point, the game where we came up short, the practice where our performance wasn’t enough. We know the ache of being close, but not quite there.

But here’s the truth: “Almost” moments are not wasted. They are training grounds. They sharpen us, humble us, and prepare us. They teach us resilience, focus, and perseverance. They remind us that victory isn’t only found in the scoreboard but in the growth that “almost” produces.

Athletes, coaches, and leaders—don’t despise the “almost.” Without it, we would never know the sweetness of victory. God uses our “almost” moments to strengthen us for what’s ahead.

Let’s not focus on the last few games as failures but as fuel! Today and tomorrow we break past the almost and conquer our way to victory! Let’s get this one!