3: Master the Basics

READY

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4:12 NLT

SET

Every sport requires players to learn fundamental skills for excellence. At times, the basics can be unexciting and difficult to learn. But in any sport, mastering these basics can make you succeed!

Much like fundamental skills in sports, a core set of basics will guide you in living a life focused on Christ.

There are three areas of basic training for a successful relationship with God.

• Basic 1: STAY IN CONSTANT COMMUNICATION WITH GOD—PRAY

Success in sports is difficult without a mentor, coach, or trainer to guide us. The same is true in our lives. We need to meet with God through direct communication—prayer.

Prayer is a powerful tool that can change your life. Prayer is about sharing your heart with God and talking to Him about your life. Learn to be completely open with God and listen for His voice.

• Basic 2: STUDY GOD’S TRAINING MANUAL—THE BIBLE

Each sport has a training manual to show excellence. The Bible is like a playbook and training manual. Its words come from the heart and mind of God. It contains truth about who God is, who we really are, and our mission. 

Its message is simple, yet deeply powerful. The Bible is living and active; God speaks to you in new ways each time you read it.

• Basic 3: LOCK ARMS WITH A WINNING TEAM—FIND A CHURCH

As competitors, we depend on the support of our coach or teammates to reach our goals. A church is a team focused on serving God together. From the beginning, God has always put people together with different talents, abilities, and experiences to accomplish His plan. Find a church that you can learn from and serve with in order to grow in your faith. 

To master the basics, keep praying and reading the Bible every day just like you would follow a basic training schedule. Let’s Go!

GO

1. What three basics have you mastered in your sport?

2. Why do you think Hebrews 4 describes the words of God as “alive” and “powerful”? 

3. Why is teamwork important in a group of believers?

WORKOUT

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17
• Matthew 6:5-15

OVERTIME

“God, thank You for laying out the basics for success in my relationship with You. Help me to set aside time each day to master the basics. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.”