Build Each Other Up
A little encouragement and a lot less smack talk can go a long way......
INSIGHTS FROM ATHLETES:
Kobe Bryant once said, "The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do."
Serena Williams has spoken about the importance of supporting other women in sports, saying, "The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up."
INSIGHTS FROM THE BIBLE:
Ephesians 4:29 says, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
In this verse, the apostle Paul is urging the Ephesian Christians to speak in a way that is uplifting and encouraging, rather than tearing others down.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR YOUTH ATHLETES:
As young athletes, you have a unique opportunity to positively impact your teammates and those around you. Your words and actions can either lift others up and inspire them to greatness, or tear them down and discourage them.
Being intentional about speaking and acting in ways that build others up can create a positive and supportive team environment where everyone can thrive. It also reflects the love and kindness of Christ, who calls us to love one another and build each other up.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
In what ways have you failed to build a teammate up in the past?
How did you feel when a teammate encouraged you in the past? How did you feel when a teammate tore you down in the past?
In what ways can you use your words and actions to build up your teammates?
Devotional written by Kevin Anselmo, Editor of the Championing Character in Youth Sports Substack.
Want to contribute a devotional? We welcome submissions (300 - 500 words). Please follow this format - sports reference, Biblical reference, why it matters, and questions - and email your piece to kevin.anselmo@gmail.com.