“Some of the greatest fighters of all time didn’t last because they could punch the hardest, but because they knew how to take a punch.”
Johnson emphasized that a fighter’s ability to endure wasn’t just about strength—it was about balance. He explained the importance of foot positioning:
“Front foot pointed forward, rear foot pointed out at an angle.”
This stance provided fighters with stability and control. Those who could absorb a hit without losing their footing had the best chance of victory. Once a fighter was thrown off balance, their opponent gained the upper hand.
Finding Balance in Life
I am a passionate person, and that same passion that fuels my worship can also fuel my rage; if thrown off balance. You know what I’m talking about, because it’s happened to you;
Someone cuts you off in traffic and you move from singing worship songs to practicing sign language.
Someone uses words that leave you with a deep, open wound; so, you sling venom right back.
Someone let you down so you don’t return their phone calls.
Reactions like these are part of our natural fight-or-flight response—a survival instinct Walter Bradford Cannon first identified. But sometimes, real strength isn’t in fighting back—it’s in taking the hit. However, sometimes our strength isn’t in fighting back but in taking the hit.
A Different Kind of Strength
Jesus offers a countercultural perspective:
“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to the other also.”
Matthew 5:39
While this certainly doesn’t mean let people walk all over you; I think there is some wisdom behind it. One of the Bible’s major themes is reconciliation. Jesus understands that sometimes when we get hit; we are thrown off balance, and the worst thing you can do is throw a punch when you don’t have a firm foundation. That’s why Paul makes specific mention of your feet in Ephesians 6:15; “and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”
You see, with the right foundation, you will have the proper balance. With proper balance, you will be able to take the hit; and have the composure to respond out of love. Notice the proper foundation is the “Gospel of peace” not war.
So, when life throws its punches:
Take the hit.
Turn your cheek.
Stand firm in the Gospel of Peace
By doing so, you will be ready to respond with faith, hope, and love.
