“For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have more than enough. But from the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”
-Matthew 25:29
No matter what sport we play or coach, each one of us has been given specific gifts. Whether we compete at the middle school, high school, college or professional level, each one of us has been given gifts. When we put those gifts to use according to God’s purpose for them, great things happen.
God is the giver of every good thing. No matter where we are at in our athletic life, God gave us what we are using. He is the reason we can run, jump and throw. He is the reason we can swing a racquet, club or bat. There are even some world-class athletes who don’t run, but still use God’s gifts of athleticism. For instance, did you know that this year’s Boston Marathon was covered in less than two hours by an amazing athlete in a wheelchair?
No matter how we play a sport, the fact that we are able to play at all is truly a gift from God. When we realize that God created the universe, it is easier to comprehend that He gave us athletic ability. The question then comes down to whether or not we are using those gifts to bring glory to Him or to ourselves.
The world tells us that we play to win. I’ve heard (and even said myself) the statement, “If they didn’t care who won, they wouldn’t keep score.” I don’t know a single athlete or coach who likes to lose. But, if our only goal is to win the game, we aren’t using the gifts God has given us in the way He wants us to.
Today, whether you win or lose, realize that God has blessed you with the ability to compete. Then, go out and do your best to honor Him with what you’ve been given.
1. Why do you compete?
2. What is one thing that brings an athlete success?
3. What are you doing daily to become the best athlete you can be?
Deuteronomy 8:18
Ecclesiastes 5:19
Matthew 25:14-30
John 11:4
Colossians 3:23
“Father, today, let us give thanks to You, the giver of all things. At the end of the day, let us be able to say that we competed not for earthly wins but for Your glory.”
About the Author:
Michael Hill is a former FCA staff member and head coach. He lives and teaches in Haysville, Kan. In his career, Michael has been blessed to coach college and high school football and spend years as a high school cross country coach.
