Reactive

adjective

re· ac· tive rē-ˈak-tiv 

a: readily responsive to a stimulus

b: occurring as a result of stress or emotional upset

The word “reactive” means to respond to a situation after it happens rather than taking initiative beforehand. A reactive person waits for things to occur and then responds, often out of emotion, pressure, or surprise, instead of being prepared and intentional.

As an athlete, it’s easy to fall into a reactive mindset—only pushing harder when the scoreboard says you’re behind, or only adjusting your training when a weakness is exposed. But God calls us to something greater.

1 Peter 5:8 says: “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

This verse reminds us that the Christian life, much like competition, requires readiness—not reaction. If you only prepare once the game has started, you’ll always be one step behind. Spiritually and athletically, you must train, discipline, and guard your mind before the pressure comes.