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It Matters How You Win

Shanta Crichlow 

Ready:

“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” Mark 8:36

Set:

Cheating has tainted the sports world over time. From the track to the baseball field, cycling to figure skating, in minor and major leagues, athletes have risked losing everything for the chance to win a title. 

Athletes who choose to include Jesus Christ in their life compete for more than a trophy. They also compete for the heavenly prize that God calls them to. They go for the win, they play with excellence, they work at their game with all their heart for the Lord and not for man. Christ is living through them, so when they play, they also play for God’s glory. 

A good sportsmanlike attitude makes the game fun for everyone; it keeps the competition in perspective. You’re not defined by your wins, but you do impact many with how you play the game. There’s never a need to cheat or humiliate your opponent. Even if your greatest effort is not enough to attain the prize, you’ve already won, because of your attitude and best effort – you’ve become a better athlete and a better person. It matters how you win.

Go:

1. Describe a time when you’ve been tempted to show unsportsmanlike behavior (either cheating or belittling a teammate or opponent, not giving your all in a game, etc.)

2. Describe a time you’ve been victim to unsportsmanlike conduct.

3. When are you most proud of your athletic performance? Describe at least one such experience.

4. How does Jesus live through you both on and off the playing field?

Workout:

• 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
• Philippians 3:14
• Colossians 1:27
• Colossians 3:23
• 1 Corinthians 10:31
• Philippians 3:7-9

Overtime:

“Lord, I want to glorify You through the way I play my sport and live my life. I want to play to win. I want to give my all. Help me to remember that win or lose, when You shine as I play, that is a reward all in itself.”