Sport

For many people sports is a major aspect of their lives, ranging from being spectators (whether via the media or in person), chauffeuring children to practices and games, or being actual participants. As in all areas of life, we must have balance in regards to our involvement in sports, as it’s easy to devote an unreasonable amount of time and energy to training, with the neglect of family, friends, or walk with God. We must understand an idol is anything that holds control over a person’s devotion and allegiance, and come in a multitude of different forms, yet the command still remains, we are to have no idols or gods, but love and serve God and His Kingdom (Ex 20:3; Mt 6:33; Mk 12:30; 1 Jn 5:21). Paul’s wise approach to life was although everything is permissible, not everything was beneficial and so he wouldn’t be mastered by anything (1 Cor 6:12). The Bible brings perspective stating, “Physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come” (1 Tim 4:8).

sports people can use their faith and be a witness for Christ among their fellow competitors and officials. Good conduct includes respect and goodwill for one’s opponent, playing by the rules, and accepting a referee’s verdict on a win or loss, yet acknowledging the right to challenge an official’s call in a courteous way, and allows for friendly banter with traditional rivalries. We must not resort to ungodly behaviour of cheating, violence or verbal abuse. Winning should not result in boastful pride, nor losing be a reason for complaining or self-pity. It is natural to experience a degree of joy and delight in winning while losing brings disappointment, yet at all times our emotions should not control our responses. Our self-esteem is not dependent on the final score, but God’s opinion of us. So while we can play hard, we must play fair, and play “for the glory of God” (1 Cor 10:31).

In each situation, we face in life we should consider what Christian virtue can we show and outwork in our life? We must continually be monitoring our reactions, having the desire to represent Jesus well and if we do fail, repent and if appropriate apologise to those involved.

Whether as players, spectators or just citizens, we should gain a reasonable grasp about the different sports and the major fixtures, so we are able to converse knowledgeably with those we interact with, as this can be a key outreach medium.

Participants who are serious about sport keep an eye on their lifestyle, social habits, and what they eat and drink to remain fit and not carry excess weight, besides regularly training to be in top condition. Moreover, being under the watchful eye of their coach, they are self-disciplined to maintain a wholesome exercise regime. The endurance and perseverance required in athletic competition is valuable in building and strengthening character.

As believers, we must acknowledge it is God who gives us the natural ability, which obviously we must continue to develop (Deut 8:18). Healthy competition is beneficial as it pushes us to release our potential.

ensuring we are not disqualified from the goal (1 Cor 9:27; Heb 12:1).

See also: ability, character, competition, emotions, exercise, hobbies, idol/idolatry, input, reaction, repentance, self-discipline, self-esteem, self-pity, witness/witnessing.