Discussion:

• Tell us about a time when you showed courage in competition.
• How have you seen other players demonstrate courage through sport?
• Why do some people think courage is an important factor in making someone a winner?
• Let’s read about a winner who showed great courage.  Read I Samuel 17:20-24, 31-37, 39-51.
• What are to you the most striking features of David’s courage in this story?
• How much is your experience with courage like his?
• How can coaches and players inspire such courage in others?

Summary:

Watch the video, then walk through the questions below.

Key Verse: Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. — Joshua 1:9

• What are some quieter ways you can be more courageous in your life?
• Do you think it is easier to go along with the crowd and not stand out? Why?
• Have you ever faced a situation where you stood alone on your convictions? How did that situation impact you and others around you?
• Read Joshua 1:9. Do you feel stronger knowing that God is always with you? Are there any bold actions you would be willing to take knowing God has your back?

Go to your local meat market and purchase a cow tongue (yes people eat them, usually boiled!) Keep the tongue frozen until the day you play, then thaw it out so it's fairly stiff when you start out. Play a game of football using Pass-Go a.k.a. Ultimate Frisbee rules and use the cow tongue instead of a frisbee or football. The longer you play, the less frozen the tongue, the more floppy the action. Kids will come out in droves just to see people throwing a cow's tongue to each other!

Follow the game with a devotion on the importance of "taming the tongue" from James 3:3-12.

Audio from the 2010 Cove retreat at the Billy Graham Center in Ashville, North Carolina.

Session 1

• Track 1
• Track 2
• Track 3
• Track 4

Session 2