With the 2010 World Cup underway, many fans have noticed that some of the world’s greatest stars have been left off of their respective countries’ rosters. Many factors went into the decisions to leave these incredible players off their teams, but the underlying concept behind their omissions is the same: their presence on the team simply would not have increased their country’s chances of winning the World Cup. While each player is likely talented enough, those making the roster decisions understand that talent doesn’t always translate into success. Each position has a role to play, and, if the men in those positions don’t play it correctly, not only would their teams be unsuccessful, but there would be a certain level of chaos on the field.

As Christians, we are all on God’s team. We play to help win the souls of unbelievers and bring them to Christ. Just like on any earthly team, each member of God’s team has different attributes that help advance God’s Kingdom. The apostle Paul spoke about this in 1 Corinthians 12 when he compared the different gifts of the Spirit to the human body. Each one of our brothers and sisters in Christ has special gifts that are indispensable, and we have to realize that God has given each of us special gifts too. We must utilize these gifts to the best of our ability. But this is not for our own individual glory; rather, it is for the glory of God.

So, unlike many of today’s star soccer players (and athletes of every sport), we do not need to be concerned with flaunting our individual accolades and accomplishments. Instead, we need to play for God’s team and put the Lord’s priorities first.