Seek Wisdom, Gain Understanding

We study the legends throughout the sports world to note their training regimen, their philosophy and nutrition guidelines. We note their every move because we want to know just what it takes to be set apart in our sport. We gather as much as we can from the wise and respected coaches in history. From John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success to Vince Lombardi’s steel grit determination to build a dynasty, we learn from the best and do our best to imitate their tools for success.

We want to be smart on the playing field. But what about wisdom? What are the benefits of being a wise teammate? And what does it meant to be wise in the Lord’s eyes?

Wisdom is the ability to discern the depth of situations and have a good sense of action. It’s assessing what’s before us and discovering what it is that’s needed. We can be smart and assured all we want. But when it comes to matters that call for an extra dose of wisdom, it’s best to seek after God, who is the source of all wisdom. King Solomon did, and it was credited to him with the title of the wisest person on Earth.

Solomon was the wisest man in history, and it started with humility. When God asked Solomon what he wanted, Solomon responded, “You have shown great kindness to your servant…  So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (1 Kings 3)

He knew the best and only way he could really rule was by the governance of wisdom. Like Solomon, we must ask God for wisdom, for eyes to see the world around us and ears to hear what God whispers to our hearts. Wisdom can help us navigate the situations that arise in the locker room, the recruitment process, and how to help a discouraged teammate. The closer we grow to God, the more sense and wisdom God gives us through His Holy Spirit.