Basketball for the Glory of God

C.J. Mahaney posted a blog titled Fathers and Sons and March Madness on March 14, 2006. In his blog he gave some practical advice on how he encourages his son to play basketball to the glory of God. Here is an excerpt of that article:

"So, prior to each practice and game I have a conversation with my son about how he can glorify God. Here is a sampling of the biblical priorities and practices I review with him:

• Humbly receive correction from your coach and ask your coach how you can grow in character as well as athletic skill.
• Thank your coaches for the way they have served you. And thank the referees after each game.
• Encourage your teammates for their display of godly character and athletic skill--in that order of priority.
• Encourage your opponents during and after the game. If you knock someone over, extend your hand to help them up.
• Play the game passionately and unselfishly. Serve your team by playing aggressive defense and passing the ball on offense.
• Humbly respond when the referee calls a foul on you. Do not complain or disagree in word or by facial expression.
• No inappropriate celebrating after you score; instead, recognize that others played a role.
• Thank the team manager for the way he served and recognize the humility and servanthood he is displaying each game. True greatness is sitting on the end of the bench.
  

There is nothing original or profound about this list. But helping my son apply it to his heart and life can make a profound difference. So after each game, I review the above list with my son. I go over the game with him and celebrate any and all expressions of humility and godly character. I tell him that this is more important to me than how many points he scored or whether his team won the game (although we do play to win!). Remember, fathers, that what you honor and celebrate, your son will emulate. Therefore, we must celebrate godly character more than athletic ability or achievement."

Read the entire blog here.

1 Corinthians 10:31 says, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Colossians 3:17 says, "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." God desires that every aspect of your life would be lived for his glory, honor, and praise. Men, may God use basketball in your life as a means to pursue godliness and not fame. Do you pursue the glory of God in everything that you do...eating, drinking, driving, talking, singing, teaching, working, relationships, and school? What would it look like to live for the glory of God in your driving, talking, singing, teaching, working, relationships, at school, etc.? Since I'm a Christian, does that mean that I always do all of those things to the glory of God or is there a certain way that those things must be done to give glory to God or not? May Christ be exalted in all things, to the glory of God.