Attitude

Introduction:

It’s very common for a young, talented player to come into a program with intentions to take over and be the leader from day one. The problem with that is obvious. That player often discounts the years of investment made by the veteran players. That kind of arrogance can cause the team’s total collapse. A healthier attitude is for the younger teammates to keep themselves in respectful relationship to the veterans, and to let their play win them the playing time and positions to which they aspire.

Application:

1.    What grade would you give for your team’s attitude in terms of demonstrating respect toward the coaches and your most experienced players? Why?

        A

        B

        C

        D

        F

2.    Tell us about a time when you saw a teammate demonstrate a wise and respectful attitude toward his or her coach or an older teammate. How did that demonstration of respect affect his or her teammates?

Bridge:

Peter wrote about these dynamics in 1 Peter 5:5-6, “In the same way, you younger men, be subject to the elders. And all of you clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you at the proper time.”

Connection:

1. To submit to someone means to place oneself in rank under another. How would a younger player properly submit to his team leaders and coaches?
2. How would such a humble attitude affect the relationships on the team?
3. How does one clothe oneself with humility?
4. Why would God be opposed to the proud, but give grace to the humble?

Discovery:

1. Compete today with the humility and grace Jesus provides.
2. Ask God to put down any arrogance or prideful attitudes in your heart.
3. Ask the Lord Jesus to replace arrogance and pride with the grace and humility that leads to great teamwork.

Close:

Memory Verse: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:1