Athlete Disciples

From Performance Anxiety to Purpose: Pro Baseball Player Joseph Sullivan on Finding His Identity in Christ

Episode Summary

How do you perform at your highest level without making your sport your identity? In this episode of the Athlete Disciples Podcast, Christian Honer sits down with professional baseball player Joseph Sullivan to discuss one of the biggest struggles athletes face: performance anxiety, identity, and surrendering everything to Christ. Joseph shares his powerful testimony of growing up in church, battling fear and anxiety during his freshman year of college, and ultimately giving his life to Jesus before a baseball game—a decision that completely changed the trajectory of his life and career. Together they unpack Matthew 6:33-34 and discuss what it really means to seek God's Kingdom first, trust His plan, and compete from a place of freedom instead of fear. In this episode you'll learn: How to overcome performance anxiety as an athlete. Why your identity can never be found in your sport. What it means to truly surrender your future to God. How seeking God's Kingdom first changes everything. Practical ways to stay rooted in Scripture every day. Why trials often become God's greatest tool for transformation. How to lead teammates and use your platform for Christ. Scripture: Matthew 6:33-34 "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." Whether you're an athlete, coach, entrepreneur, or someone walking through anxiety or uncertainty, this conversation is a reminder that true peace isn't found in performance—it's found in Christ. If this episode encouraged you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another athlete who needs to hear this message. Guest: Joseph Sullivan ⚾ Professional Baseball Player – Houston Astros Organization 🙏 Christ Follower | Athlete | Disciple Maker 📲 Follow Joseph on Instagram to keep up with his baseball journey and his walk with Christ.