Compete for Something More
“Then David said, “The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” –1 Samuel 17:37
We all need a mindset that renews our outlook on athletics. When we have a renewed outlook on how we play, coach, interact and compete, we realize that we compete for something more than wins; life is about more than championships. God has a deeper purpose for our sport and our competitive nature that lets us compete for something more. But what is this more?
God’s deeper purpose in all seasons of competition is to glorify Him.
So how do we glorify God and compete for something bigger?
Give It to God
Before any practice, game or workout, give it all to God. When you give it to Him, that means you recognize that every success, accomplishment and victory is from Him. Since it comes from His hands, it’s in His hands, and you can give Him all the glory. That is what it looks like to compete with a deeper purpose.
Take Your Eyes Off the Scoreboard
Whether you are playing or coaching, checking the score and time is important and vital; however, it is not the only important thing to look at. God desires for you to glorify Him and love others. When you take your eyes off the scoreboard and begin looking toward those around you, you will begin to see how your teammates could use prayer, support, encouragement, or even Gospel conversations. You can have the highest score, but if you don’t love your teammates well, you will miss the deeper purpose.
Success Isn’t Defined by Wins
Success is more than wins. Times of injury, setbacks and discouragement can be opportunities for you to grow and see God at work in your life and your team. Success is defined not by if you win, but if you grow. Moments of trials and hardships can grow you into a better teammate, athlete, friend and disciple of Christ if you allow them to. Having a mindset where success isn’t defined by a win will allow you to compete freely and purposefully.
When we have a renewed outlook that focuses on God instead of the X’s and O’s and wins and losses, we begin to compete for something more. True and meaningful life exists beyond the scoreboard.
- How can you serve and love your teammates well?
- How can you reshape your mindset to compete for a success that is God’s, not the world’s?
- When you run into a challenge, try to see it as a way of refinement and look for God to show up in it.
“Lord, thank You that all my battles belong to You. When I face challenges, may I look to You for strength and wisdom, and I pray You equip me and remind me that success in Your eyes is what matters. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
