"It matters a great deal who is going to win, but not at all who won"
Players’ mantra
Set an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12This verse reads like a mantra for the Christian who is seeking to serve Christ in the world of sport. In our club we are to set an example in five ways.
Speech – we are to mind our language. In UK sport not swearing immediately makes you stand out. That is a start. Setting an example in speech also means being positive, encouraging. It means not talking behind someone’s back. Not “slagging-off” the coach.
Conduct – we are to see ourselves as representing Christ in all we do. We are to be people of integrity, completely trustworthy, setting an example on and off the field.
Love – we are to love our neighbour as ourselves. Seeing the team-mate, opponent and officials as our neighbour and loving them, will change our attitude to them.
Faith – we are to keep the faith, to stand for Christ without compromise. Standing for the truth is not easy in many sporting situations but who said being a Christian was going to be easy?
Purity – Sex is the most obvious application here but there are others. Speaking in the context of male teams, we are to avoid getting involved in any of the thoughts words and actions that are dishonouring to women, which are often prevalent in the laddish culture.
Let’s be involved in the world of sport and seek to win it for Christ.
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