As a player and a coach, I have seen people boast and show-off, and it has bothered me. During my last high school basketball game, the opposing team talked trash to me the whole game. They made fun of my weight, my glasses, and my slowness. Thankfully, my parents taught me to represent God in all situations. My answer to their heckling was to play my hardest, and it paid off. It was the best game I ever played. Our team won in double-overtime, which was the best feeling.

The word used here for “boastful,” meaning to talk highly of yourself, is used once in the New Testament.  It’s in 1 Corinthians 13 and it is used in a negative way, “Love is not boastful.” In Matthew 22, when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus said to love God with all that you are and love others as yourself. The word love in the original Greek translation is used in both references; the word is agape, meaning a self-sacrificing love. It’s a love that sees others as more important and valuable. 

Boasting or flaunting your skills or abilities does not show love and respect to an opponent. If someone is boasting to you, or you feel the urge to boast yourself, remember Jesus. Jesus died on the cross for me, for you, for your opponent, for everyone. We’re all sinners, so we’re all equal.  Love them even if you are trying to win.