FAITH without TRUST is ANXIETY!!!

By Sterling McLennan

When I first stepped into the world of sports and entertainment, I brought with me more than just ambition; I carried a dream shaped by years of being an athlete myself, faith, purpose, and a deep desire to make a lasting impact in a world I knew all too well. I envisioned being a light in an industry that thrives on spectacle but often hides struggle. I believed I was called to this space. But no one tells you what happens when your calling feels more like a question than a confirmation.

Staying faithful in this industry is a challenge, but not impossible.

In sports, we idolize performance. In entertainment, we praise perfection. Somewhere in between the arenas, stadiums, backstage passes, and bright lights, I started to feel small. Not just as a woman, or a young professional, or a minority but as someone who was trying to hold onto faith when everything around me felt uncertain, political, and at times, spiritually empty. There were days I questioned why I was here at all.

“Who did I steal from in order to be here right now?”

Why did God place me in rooms where I felt so inadequate? Why did He give me a voice that sometimes trembled before it could speak? Why did every success come with a side of silence from the people I thought would cheer me on the loudest?

Here’s what I’ve learned: faith isn’t just for the good days. It’s for the days when you show up to work with a broken heart but still give your best. It’s for the moments when you’re tempted to compromise your values just to get a “yes.” It’s for the nights you cry after networking events where you smiled all evening but left feeling invisible (I could fill a LAKE with how many tears I’ve shed in the car!).

Faith is for the fire. And I’ve been in it.

In the fire, I’ve also seen God refine me. He’s reminded me that my worth doesn’t come from job titles, press releases, or how many people know my name. My worth comes from Him. My purpose is not to impress, but to impact. Not to blend in, but to be bold even if that means standing alone.

Now, I see my faith as my foundation, not a flaw. It fuels the way I lead, plan, speak, serve, and shine. I know I’m called to create purpose-driven experiences, not just pretty moments.

To anyone else navigating the sports and entertainment world while holding onto your faith, know this: you’re not weak for feeling weary. You’re strong for choosing to believe anyway. Keep showing up. Keep praying through. Keep creating from a place of conviction, not comparison. Your light is needed here more than you know.

As for me? I’m still walking by faith, even when I can’t see the whole field.