《後勁：王建民》觀後心得 – KRC 資源為基督協會

Four Key Points for Facing Setbacks in Life’s Arena

Wang Chien-Ming, once a national hero who made headlines across Taiwan by winning 19 games in two consecutive seasons with the New York Yankees in Major League Baseball, faces many of the same challenges as you and me in the documentary The Uprising that chronicles his comeback after injury. He encounters frustrations, setbacks, and even harsh blows in his life, work, marriage, and family.

However, my main focus while watching the documentary was on how Wang Chien-Ming managed to miraculously return to Major League Baseball in 2016 despite facing numerous setbacks and difficulties. How exactly did he achieve this? And as Christians, what valuable lessons can we learn from Wang’s remarkable comeback? Below, I share four key points with readers:

1. Perseverance: One crucial factor behind Wang Jianmin’s return to the Major Leagues, the author believes, is his unwavering persistence in baseball. In the documentary, Wang even states that just being able to stand on the mound in the Major Leagues for one day would be enough. It was precisely Wang’s deep dedication to baseball that enabled him to overcome the ups and downs of playing in independent leagues and various minor league teams, his fluctuating health and arm condition, as well as the longing and responsibilities toward his wife and children—ultimately achieving a comeback victory on the baseball field!

For Christians, the author believes that maintaining steady perseverance and not giving up easily is very important! Sometimes, the circumstances may seem unfavorable, and no door or path appears open, but the author trusts that God will surely make a way for us. A well-loved Taiwanese Christian, NBA player Jeremy Lin, is a great example of enduring through multiple injuries and low points with perseverance. Lin has shared his favorite Bible verse: "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame..." (Romans 5:3-5a) This verse encourages us to be steadfast in difficult situations, not to lose faith, and not to give up easily.

2. Faith: In Back Force (《後勁》), although Wang Chien-Ming does not explicitly mention his faith, a religious ornament can be seen hanging from the rearview mirror inside his car. It’s believed that this symbol of his faith brings him some comfort and peace during his long journeys and travels.

For those of us who trust in Jesus, it is even more important to cling tightly to the Lord and hold fast to God during difficult times. Besides reading the Bible and praying to seek God’s help, maintaining a daily, consistent, and dedicated time of devotion can strengthen our hearts and root us deeply in God, so we won’t be easily shaken or thrown into confusion by external challenges.

3. Support from Family and Close Friends: In the film, Chien-Ming Wang's agent, Alan Chang, stated in an interview that without the unwavering support of family and friends along the way, it would have been impossible for Wang to return to Major League Baseball. In fact, Alan Chang was the very person who stood by Wang through it all and never gave up on him. When Wang had no team to pitch for, Chang helped him find a spot in an independent league; when Wang's pitching performance fluctuated, Chang suggested he train at the Texas Baseball Ranch. In *Late Life: The Chien-Ming Wang Story*, we see the influence of Wang's parents’ teachings, his agent’s steadfast support, advice from American friends, and the warm hospitality of Taiwanese classmates—all of which Wang surely holds dear in his heart.

As people who value connection and fellowship, we should not bear hardships alone during times of adversity. Whenever possible, we ought to share our struggles and difficulties appropriately with family, church members, and close friends. Doing so not only helps release emotional tension, but also opens the way for God to speak to us through others and guide us through tough seasons. If we have the energy, it’s also helpful to go out with loved ones—enjoy a good meal, watch a movie, or participate in some activities together. These can all relieve stress and bring healing to our hearts. As Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Indeed, keeping a joyful heart is something we must actively practice, especially in times of adversity and discouragement.

4. Seeking Solutions to Problems: One of the key factors that enabled Chien-Ming Wang to once again stand on the Major League pitching mound was his decision to train at The Texas Baseball Ranch. Although it wasn’t a mainstream baseball institution, and Wang initially had doubts about the ideas of its leaders, Ron Wolforth and Randy Sullivan, he eventually chose to go—with a "nothing to lose" mindset. That courageous decision led to him regaining his pitching velocity and ultimately signing with the Kansas City Royals. Wang’s experience teaches us a valuable lesson: identifying potential solutions and being willing to try them is crucial in overcoming adversity. Even if the path seems unconventional or uncertain, taking proactive steps with faith and courage can open doors to breakthrough and recovery.

For believers, the Lord Jesus Christ is the one and only true God—He holds the best solution to every problem. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life…” (John 14:6). The author firmly believes that through consistent and devoted times of devotion, Scripture reading, and prayer, God will provide the right solution at the right time, and lead us out of trials and adversity.

The above reflections are a humble offering from the author, shared with the hope that they may be of help and encouragement to you, the reader. With heartfelt sincerity, we also extend our best wishes to Chien-Ming Wang. Now that he has hung up his jersey and stepped off the pitcher’s mound, may he continue to run the race of life well—and contribute to Taiwanese baseball in new and meaningful ways.