Know Your Influence

As a coach or athlete, you have numerous opportunities to share the love of Jesus with your teammates by how you play, lead, respond to wins and losses, and interact with your team. It's the small things that set you apart and cause people to wonder what makes you different.

Sometimes we can quickly forget our freedom in knowing Jesus as our Savior. If you know Jesus, you have been set free by His truth. But only some know this truth, and only some know what it means to be truly free. 

Without freedom in Christ, the highs and lows of life hit differently. Coaches and athletes who aren't yet competing with a greater purpose may experience burnout from the constant striving and believing that who they are is measured by what they do or accomplish. 

Just as Jesus is the light of the world, we are to shine our light so others may see God's good work in us (Matthew 5:16). How you treat people, respond to disappointment and lead your team matters. Misplaced hope shatters us in the face of disappointment. But, when we place our hope in Jesus, we are not shaken by the things of this world because Christ is our foundation. 

This unshakeable hope, unending joy and the ability to not be derailed by the things of this world is what sets us apart as Jesus' followers and what sets you apart on your team. 

When you choose to follow Jesus, you are on mission with Him and called to use your influence to share the truth and message of the Gospel. Your teammates and players need to hear this truth. This truth can be shared over time in how you live, lead and love your team and others. 

Don't believe the lie that you can't make a difference, and don't say no to Jesus for someone else! Instead, recognize your influence and be confident you can make a difference where God has called you.