SOLE VS SOUL
Ready:
“For what will it benefit someone if he gains the whole world yet loses his life? Or what will anyone give in exchange for his life?” – Matthew 16:26
Set:
Most coaches care about their players getting better. They want to help their players improve their skill level in all areas by developing a strategic plan to help position each player to be the best they can be individually and collectively as a team. They focus on the ‘sole’ of their players. A focus that places a high regard on what he or she can do on the court or field.
God is calling all coaches who follow Jesus Christ to a higher standard. To focus more on the ‘soul’ of their players. To help their players live out their purpose by becoming Christ followers. Coaches who follow Christ are called to keep the ‘soul’ of their players more important than the ‘sole’ of their players by how they pray for them, care for them, lead them, serve them, and love them. To help train them in godliness and not just physical training.
Coach, Jesus died for our sins and wants you to focus on heavenly things above earthly things. It is very important to help your players be the best they can be athletically. But God is more honored when you use your influence to help them be the best they can be spiritually. As the scripture says, it doesn’t matter if your player reaches their highest dreams on the court or field but miss eternity with God.
Go:
1. What have you focused more on with your players in the past—‘sole’ or ‘soul’? Why?
2. What are some ways you can be more intentional about coaching the ‘soul’ of your players? Give one practical example to implement.
Workout:
1 Timothy 4:8; Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 9:24-25
Overtime:
“Heavenly Father, give me wisdom and understanding on how to keep the soul of my players more important than the sole of my players. Help me to lead them into a relationship with You through Jesus Christ. Amen.”