Ready:
“So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” – Colossians 3:1-2
Set:
What is your perspective as an athlete or coach? Do you find yourself consumed with winning, causing your perspective to be colored by what happened in the last game? Do you tend to focus on what’s wrong with your performance, your team and your circumstances?
What we celebrate on Easter, the resurrection of Christ, is a difference-maker. Because Jesus defeated the grave and rose from the dead, we have new life when we trust Him. According to Colossians 3:1-2, being united by faith to the Risen Christ also gives us a new perspective. We now “seek the things above.” “[T]hings above” refers to the realm where the Lord’s reign is fully realized “where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” After His resurrection, Jesus ascended and is enthroned in honor and glory as the King of kings and Lord of lords. We are to aspire to what aligns with Christ’s rule: His kingdom values, characteristics and priorities.
How do we do this? “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” It requires a change in mindset. We turn our focus away from earthly things that do not align with Christ’s kingdom. Instead, we reorient our minds around Jesus and what it means to live, compete and coach under His rule as our King. This transformed perspective—focused on the values, characteristics and priorities of King Jesus—leads to Christ-honoring words and actions.
A kingdom perspective compels us to consider things like, “Does my attitude in competition reflect what Jesus prioritizes?” “Do the words I speak—even in intense moments—demonstrate love for God and love for those listening?” “Am I eager to glorify the Lord whether I have competitive success or my team just suffered a tough loss?”
If you have put your faith in Jesus, you have been raised with Him. Daily embrace the new, Christ-centered perspective that comes with His resurrection life.
Go:
In what areas do you struggle to “seek the things above” and set your mind on these things?
How does focusing on the values, characteristics, and priorities of King Jesus change how you think about your sport?
Workout:
Overtime:
“Lord Jesus, I praise you because you are the Risen Christ. I desire to set my mind on You and Your kingdom values and priorities. Reign over my perspective today. Amen.”