Sports in ScriptureSample

Competing with Humility and Contentment

As we conclude this devotional series, it's essential to reflect on Paul’s teachings on humility, contentment, and a Christ-centered approach to competition. These offer guidance that goes beyond sports to impact every aspect of life.

In Philippians 2, Paul challenges us with a directive that seems almost impossible in the competitive world of sports: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility, consider others better than yourselves." This appears to contradict the common drive to be the best and outshine the competition. Yet, true greatness isn’t found in personal glory but in building up others. When we adopt a selfless attitude—encouraging teammates, respecting opponents, and putting the team’s success above our own—we grow personally and as athletes.

Even in individual sports, where it’s easy to see an opponent as an adversary, we’re called to unselfishness. Instead of focusing solely on defeating our adversaries, what if we recognized their role in making us better? By treating them with respect, win or lose, we reflect Christ’s humility and open ourselves to growth, both in our sport and in our character. This mindset also extends to interactions with officials and referees. They are not adversaries but individuals doing their best in challenging situations. Showing them respect and grace is a powerful witness to our faith.

Philippians 4:13, often quoted, reminds us, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This isn’t a guarantee of success in every endeavor, but rather a statement about contentment—whether in abundance or need, in victory or defeat. Learning to be content, no matter the outcome, frees us to compete with joy and integrity. Contentment isn’t complacency or a lack of ambition; it’s a deep trust in Christ, who strengthens us to face any situation with grace.

Imagine the freedom that comes from being content, regardless of a game’s outcome. By trusting in Christ’s strength, we can compete without the weight of unrealistic expectations or the fear of failure. Whatever comes our way—bad calls, tough losses, or personal disappointments—we can handle it with a steady heart, knowing our identity and worth are secure in Christ.

These New Testament principles are about more than becoming better athletes or coaches—they’re about becoming more like Christ. Whether on the field, in the locker room, or leading a team, let these lessons guide you: compete with humility, embrace contentment, and always remember that with God, all things are possible. By keeping Christ at the center of your journey, you’ll not only finish the race but finish it well, bringing glory to God in all you do.

The Sports Ministry Institute (SMI) was created under GCSD to minister to athletes from a wide variety of sports, with simple, thought-provoking devotions for athletes to think about their sport and their athletics inside the biblical worldview of God and His grace. Be equipped as an athlete/minister today. Register for the SMI Core Curriculum now!