Ready
“Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people but as wise— making the most of the time…submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” — Ephesians 5:15-16a; 21
Set
Good sportsmanship is a high-level characteristic required of athletes. Sportsmanship is the fair and kind behavior and treatment of your opponent; demonstrating respect for them no matter the outcome. Coaches and parents speak often about being good sports in competition. This kind of behavior should be shown to game officials, opponents and teammates alike. If you lose, don’t make up excuses. If you win, don’t gloat and rub it in.
Good sportsmanship is akin to respect. Respect declares that you recognize the value, worth and dignity of another person, and then you treat them honorably, as you would treat Christ Jesus. We respect our peers, coaches, teachers, parents and even ourselves. During games, it may be difficult to respect opposing teams, or even the officials, but it’s still the right thing to do – pay careful attention to how you play and handle yourself. Be a good sportsman. The opposite of respect is disrespect, or dishonor, or even disdain. Is that how you want to be known?
There was a man of high respect and honor in the New Testament. His name was Barnabas. His name meant “encourager”, and he was known to give respect and honor to others. He was fair, he spoke good words and did good deeds for the benefit of others because he valued others and see their worth and dignity. These actions built a legacy, a testimony, and others in turn respected and honored him. (See Acts 9:27; Acts 4:36-37; Acts 11:22-24)
Following Barnabas’ example, points us to Christ Jesus and His way of showing respect to others. When the opportunity comes, show respect to athletes and coaches around you. Others need it. You need it. Make sure your behavior is respectable, honorable and dignified. Be this kind of athlete and person.
Go:
What does good sportsmanship mean to you?
Is respect talked about on your team?
Good sportsmanship requires a prior decision to be respectful. Do you decide often to respect others?
Workout
Overtime
“Lord Jesus, thank You for demonstrating respect. You respected everyone. Help me to have the same attitude as You had. Help that I will be able to be respectful and respect others, whether I win or lose. I want to be like You. Thank You for helping me learn and grow in this important area. In Jesus’ name, amen.”