Play-by-Play: John (2/3)Намуна

Fear Can Be Toxic

Theme verse: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

In 2018, Maryland placed head football coach DJ Durkin on paid administrative leave due to allegations of abuse in the program after the death of offensive lineman Jordan McNair. ESPN published an inside story on the “toxic culture” created by the Maryland coach, who was later fired. Former players and staff told ESPN the coaching environment was based on fear and intimidation. Coaches were accused of humiliating and embarrassing players through extreme verbal abuse.

It’s not uncommon for some coaches to still use fear as a motivational tool in sports. When I played football for legendary coach Tom Osborne, he steered away from using fear tactics. He knew they could quickly work against his team. His former player and former head of the Huskers, Scott Frost, said this about fear: “If someone misses a tackle or drops the ball, they don’t need to be yelled at. They need to be taught the right way to do it so that it doesn’t happen again. And once you take away that fear of what might happen when you make a bad play, it really frees you up to go make great plays. I want our team to always play with a desire to excel and no fear of failure.”

Fear is a product of the Fall. After trying to hide shame, Adam confessed that fear drove him into hiding when God confronted him (Genesis 3:10). Coaches and athletes regularly deal with fear. Fear of crowds. Fear of an opponent. Fear of making mistakes. Fear of being embarrassed.

Jesus’ announcement of His departure caused fear among his disciples in John 14. It put them into an emotional tailspin as they feared a future without Him. Here are four truths from Jesus in chapter 14 that can be applied to any kind of fear. 1) The Holy Spirit will comfort us (14:25-26). 2) The peace of Jesus Christ will be ours (14:27). 3) No matter the circumstances, He has won the victory (14:28-29). 4) Courage can be found in obedience (14:30-31).

A Kingdom Coach and Athlete is motivated by love rather than fear.

H.E.A.R.

As you read today’s chapter, journal using the H.E.A.R method:

H (Highlight) - What stands out to you? If something stands out to you, it’s likely God pulling you toward a certain portion of scripture.

E (Explain) - Describe in context the text. Ask questions like: Why was this written? To whom was it originally written? How does this fit with the verses before and after? Why did the Holy Spirit include this passage in the book?

A (Apply) - How do you take this verse beyond the page? Ask questions like: How can this help me? What does this mean today? What would the application of this verse look like in my life? What is God saying to me?

R (Respond) - This is where you will write a measurable response to the truth God revealed. Maybe it will be a call to action, something you will change in the coming week. Maybe it will be a prayer asking God to help you work this truth into your life. Whichever, make sure it is measurable so you can hold yourself accountable in your growth as a disciple.