FCA: The Undefeated Devotional For CompetitorsSample

The Right Player
By Jimmy Page

READY:
“…everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 18:14b

SET:
When Herb Brooks, coach of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team that beat the Soviets and went on to win gold, was assembling his roster, he said he wasn’t looking for the best players but for the right players. He needed guys who weren’t skating for the spotlight, but who would sacrifice for something bigger than themselves.

In sports today humility is virtually dead. Thirteen-year-olds produce their own highlight films. Players point to the name on their jersey and taunt their opponents. They think it’s the only way to get noticed. But Jesus showed us a different way. He wasn’t only the best player; He was the right player.

Jesus was God. He had every right to claim titles and power, but instead He humbled Himself by living as a man among us and making the ultimate sacrifice (Philippians 2:3-11). Jesus paid for our sins so that by faith we could be reconciled to God and live forever.

Humility doesn't seek the spotlight; it serves and sacrifices. Humility comes from the inside out. It’s not just words; it’s actions and attitudes, too. Humble athletes make others around them better and celebrate their successes. They do good deeds no one sees. They have attitudes of gratitude. They give away credit when things go right and take responsibility when things go wrong.

Today, you may be the best player, but are you the right player? Give God the glory and use the ability He gave you to benefit of others.

GO:
1. Do you seek the spotlight, or do you sacrifice and serve?
2. What can you do to take on the humble attitude and actions of Jesus?
3. How can you show humility to your teammates, coaches, refs and opponents?

WORKOUT:
Luke 18:9-14
1 Corinthians 1:31
Philippians 2:3-11
1 Peter 5:5

OVERTIME:
Father, help me be a humble athlete who serves and sacrifices to make others better. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.