Beyond the Win: An Imperishable Crown
Ready:
“Now everyone who competes exercises self-control in everything. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable crown.” – 1 Corinthians 9:25
Set:
Last season I helped coach a team that fell a little short of winning a state championship. And guess what? It was a little disappointing. When you work really hard for something, but in the end fall short, it hurts.
My heart hurt for the players because not that long ago I was sitting in a locker room with tears rolling down my cheeks feeling absolutely crushed. If you have ever been in that position, you know there are no words to say in that moment that can make the sting go away. Even the next day I didn’t know what to say. The best I had was, “You know, I never won a state championship either.” In response one of the girls looked at me and replied, “And you’re still alive.”
At the end of the day a win or loss doesn’t change who you are. Only Jesus can do that. This is exactly what Paul is trying to teach in his letter to the Corinthians. If your only goal in coaching is to win earthly prizes (trophies, records, recognitions or promotions) then you will never truly be fulfilled. If you believe that your identity rests in those things alone then you will always be let down. Only through believing in Jesus can you receive an imperishable crown. Only through Jesus can you be truly fulfilled.
Go:
- What was your toughest loss? How long did it take to get over?
- What are your coaching goals? What are you trying to achieve?
Workout:
Philippians 3:14; Ephesians 2:10
Overtime:
“Lord, I do not like to lose but I am grateful that You are with me when I do. Help me to take my eyes off of earthly prizes and place them on You. Help me coach in a way that points my players to You. In Your name, amen.”