Josh Beers of Lancaster Bible College checks in before the national tournament to give coaches and players some advice heading into their first rounds games:
I am looking forward to being in Florida for the national championships in NCCAA II men’s and women’s soccer. I am particularly looking forward to observing the classroom of athletics and how Christian athletes distinguish themselves from their secular counterparts. Some of our athletes and coaches will fail the tests while others will demonstrate extraordinary Christ-like character that demonstrates the fruit of the Spirit in their lives. One of the areas we will observe character on display is in the fine line between being cocky (proud) and being confident. I believe without a doubt that Christian athletes have an edge in this area of life because of who they belong to, and my prayer is that we will see displays of confidence this week in Florida that will stand in stark contrast to the cocky displays seen every day from many athletes. It is easy to respect a Tim Tebow and then imitate many of the athletes whose lives are completely contradictory to that kind of living.
I like to define confidence as an attitude that possesses assuredness in the ability that God has given and the awareness that my best effort for God’s glory is enough. Many athletes who are confident are often accused of being cocky. What is the difference? How can a Christian athlete maintain a confidence without becoming cocky? The contrast below distinguishes how we can be confident athletes with a winning edge that does not have to fall prey to the cocky arrogance that marks so much of the sports world today.
Confidence | Cocky
Says through the Lord we did it (Ps. 20:5) | Says we are # 1
Encourages an opponent | Gloats and trash talks an opponent
Ignores official’s bad call and focuses on next play | Confronts officials demanding different call
Plays at same intensity regardless of score | Effort of play determined by score
Praises teammates for individual success | Showboats and brings glory to self
Respects coach and teammates | Respects self over coaches and teammates
Respects and even commends opponents good play | Disrespects opponents and treats as the enemy
Draws satisfaction from winning and winning effort | Draws satisfaction from personal success
Is content out of the spotlight | Forces himself into the spotlight
Gives best in games and practice | Often gives less than best in practice
Is based in God | Is based in self
Will to win | Fear of losing or failure
What kind of athletes are you developing?
Josh hit another one out of the park.
Thanks, Coach Beers, for steering the hearts of young men/women and coaches vertically. In the long run … its the development of integritous and biblical strength through the disciines of sport that matters.