During a losing season or bad game, it’s easy to give up on each other. When a teammate breaks team rules, the question arises: Can we count on this player whose conduct or performance is below our team’s standards? When we blow it, will our teammates give up on us?

Peter made a lot of mistakes. He made claims he could not back up; did things without thinking of the consequences; talked when he should have listened; and lied, cried, and almost died because of his immaturity. But Jesus never gave up on him, and he became a world-changer.

When teammates quit believing in one another, the fight is over. But when our respect for one another is unconditional, all things become possible. There is a respect that must be earned. But there is also a respect that must be unconditional. Unconditional respect is honoring one another no matter what. Following is the Team Covenant my teams adopted as we determined to never quit believing in one another:

“To my teammates and coaches: I will believe in you and your potential regardless of your ability, performance, or past failures. I will trust you to grow, to rise to the occasion, to do the right thing. If you fail my trust, I will not give up on you and will do whatever I can to help you succeed. If I see a weakness in you, I will honor you enough to pray for you, and, if necessary, challenge you face to face to rise up to our higher calling. I commit to always treat you better than I treat myself. I will fight for your honor if you are attacked in any way. I will stick by you and stick up for you, always.”

God promises He will never give up on us. We must offer our coaches and teammates the same unconditional respect.