Ready:

"How happy is the one who does not walk in the advice of the wicked or stand in the pathway with sinners or sit in the company of mockers!” —Psalm 1:1

Set:

There are numerous stories surrounding athletes who started well and right, but listened to wrong voices, and ended up doing bad things. They lost their careers, character was ruined, and they ended up losing all respect and were disqualified from their sport. On January 6, 1994, Nancy Kerrigan was the victim of an attack on her knee that was orchestrated by her skating rival Tonya Harding. The attack was intended to prevent Kerrigan from competing in the upcoming Olympics. Harding was permanently banned from competing because of her involvement. Wisdom always speaks (if we are listening) and it tells us to choose the honest instruction, to choose the correct direction and to choose the wholesome words that build others up.

The clear guidance from Psalm 1, reveals there is a blessed person who doesn’t do three things: first, he or she doesn’t take unwise advice. Next, he or she doesn’t stand with those who choose to do wrong. And last, he or she doesn’t mock or make fun of others. The one, who by wisdom, chooses to stay away from these actions and individuals finds that they are happy.

The pressure is real and the pull is strong to take bad advice because it often is easier. The pull is strong to stand with sinner and mock others – it certainly feels like everyone else is doing it. But the psalm goes on to describe that those who do those things are like chaff, the unused part of grain (Psalm 1:4-5). Honesty, humility and character stand the test of time.

Church leader Paul gave this advice to a young friend, “Flee from youthful passions, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22). This makes it clear for athletes and coaches. Don’t get sucked in to the wicked way of life. You’ll be happier if you don’t.

Go:

1. Have you been on the receiving end of someone’s harsh words and demeaning remarks? Was it easy to react and return the same kind of words back at them?

2. Who is a trusted friend, coach, pastor or parent, who can guide you and help you stay clear from these individuals so that you don’t compromise and become like them?

Workout:

Overtime: