Devotional

Teammates

Ready 

"Be conscientious about yourself and your teaching; persevere in these things, for by doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers." –1 Timothy 4:16

Set 

Chad was the consummate team player, working harder than everyone else. He was humble and unselfish, and never once did I hear him talk trash to an opponent. I knew there was something different about Chad, but I couldn’t quite figure out what it was.

At age 16 I began to search for the purpose of my existence. Sports were gratifying, but I knew they wouldn’t last forever. Around this time, I learned that the difference between Chad and me was that he had a personal relationship with Jesus that influenced his life on and off the field.

Through the connection I had with Chad as a competitor and teammate, his life had a huge influence on my decision to give my life to Christ. Without the bond we had through sports, Chad would not have influenced my life the way he did. The celebration of victories, disappointment of tough losses, sweat, and sacrifices helped us develop a strong relationship and opened my heart to see and hear the message of Christ.

As a Christian competitor, I encourage athletes to view their teams as mission fields. Jesus is calling us to be His ambassadors and help reconcile our teammates to God.

Go 

1. How have your teammates influenced your life? In what ways are you influencing theirs?
2. How would you describe the bond you feel with your teammates?
3. Identify one teammate for whom you will pray and intentionally pour Christ’s love into through your words and actions.

Workout 

2 Corinthians 5:17; 6:2; Colossians 4:2-6; 1 Peter 3:15

Overtime 

God, I want to influence my teammates the way Chad did. Please help me live in such a way that my teammates notice something different about me. Open up opportunities for me to share about Your love and forgiveness that covers our sins. Please use me to make a difference in this world. Amen.

Bible Reference: 
1 Peter 3
Ministry