"Six things the Lord hates; in fact, seven are detestable to Him: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that plots wicked schemes, feet eager to run to evil, a lying witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up trouble among brothers."
-Proverbs 6:16-19
There are some things that just set a coach off. Together those things make up what I call my "Hot List"--things that made me mad fast!
1. A lazy player.
2. Someone who is constantly late.
3. Those who would rather complain than try harder.
4. Those who blame everyone else and never take responsibility for their own actions.
These players really pushed me to the limit as a coach. Was there redeeming value in them? Absolutely. But rarely did they see it in themselves.
Many coaches have a "Hot List," and theirs may include more things than what I have listed. But did you know that the Lord has a list as well? It includes arrogance, deceit, evil thoughts and actions, grumbling and more. And what's more, the Lord says He won't put up with it. Sure, He is patient, kind and loving, but He is also fair, just and a God of discipline. The more you know and love God, the more you will want to stay away from the "Hot List" sins.
There are many things that are out of a player's control on and off the court, but there are many things that they can control. As a player, learn what sets your coach off, then strive to work in a way that will give God glory and honor above all else. If you do this in all things, you will surely stay out of the doghouse, and those "Hot List" items will rarely, if ever, enter your mind. My greatest advice to you today? Keep Jesus first, and everything will find it's proper place!
1. Do you push your coach to the edge with your attitude and actions?
2. Are you guilty of any of the seven things the Lord hates?
3. Today, how can you start keeping Jesus first in practice, competition and in your life?
Proverbs 6, Matthew 6:33, Mark 12:30
Heavenly Father, forgive me for committing the things on Your “hot list.” Thank You for being patient, loving, and kind. I want to give You the glory and honor above all else. Amen.
