"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, because by Him everything was created, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and by Him all things hold together. He is also the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He might come to have first place in everything." — Colossians 1:15–18
It’s the start of practice. Everyone has high hopes, goals, and expectations for the upcoming season. As Christians, the biggest goals are the ones God has for us as coaches and the athletes He has entrusted to our care.
God has created each one of our team members, the coaching staff, parents, and all those connected with our programs. Twice in the verses above we are reminded of Jesus’ work in creating all things. In fact, today’s passage tells us that all things were created not only by Him, but also for Him. He also promises to hold thing—all things—together. This may not mean victory, or lack of challenges, but things will be held together to accomplish His perfect plan and will in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
As we begin each season, God asks if we’ll allow Him to be supreme on our teams each year. That is, can He be the head Coach? Will we allow Him to be supreme in our words, actions, decisions, and plans during the upcoming season?
May each season become one where Jesus Christ is the true head Coach of our teams. When we get to the end of each season and we’re putting away the uniforms, and shaking the last hand at our banquets, may it be said that whatever we did, we did to the glory of God (1 Co 10:31).
1. What might a Jesus-coached team look like?
2. Read John 6:38 and Hebrews 10:7. How do those verses relate to turning your team (or role on the team) over to God?
Extra Reading: Hebrews 1:1–4
Father, I want to surrender our team to Your leadership. I ask You to coach through me. Amen.