Sole vs Soul

Ready

“What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?” - Matthew 16:26

Set

Good 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. A plan that involves weight training, conditioning, proper nutrition, skill development, and among other things. All good coaches want this. 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. Thus, helping some players play at a higher level including the pros. I admire all coaches who spend the time and effort to help their players get better! But I also admire coaches who see the bigger picture. 

God is calling all coaches who follow Jesus Christ to a higher standard. To greatness! To focus more on the ‘soul’ of their players. To help them live out their purpose by becoming Christ followers and receive freedom in Jesus Christ. 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. To focus on your players eternal destiny with God. Yes--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 but miss eternity with God. I want to encourage you to not just be a good coach but a great coach! To have a plan to coach the ‘soul’ of your players so they can have an eternal relationship with God through his Son Jesus Christ. I pray you continue to use your platform as a coach to impact the kingdom of God! 

Go

1. What have you focused more on with your players in the past—‘sole’ or ‘soul’? 

2. What may cause you to focus more on their ‘sole’ as a coach in this culture today? 

3. Are there any barriers facing you that can hinder helping your players find and follow Jesus? 

4. What are some ways you can be more intentional about coaching the 'soul' of your players? Give one practical example to implement this week, month, or season.  

Workout

Overtime