We live in a performance-driven, presentation-focused, and public-image world. In the sporting world, much emphasis is put on game time. “How do I look?” and “How will I perform?” are questions in the forefront of our minds. We are thinking, lights, camera, action! In athletics, this drive is magnified. We are drawn more to the presentation than we are to the preparation. The reality is that what we do in private affects what we do in public.

Jesus was the ultimate public figure, yet He focused His energy on His private preparation. Every chance He got, Jesus spent quality time in prayer and devotion to His Father. He pushed away from the crowds, away from the public eye, away from the demands of His day, and got alone with God. His disciples made the connection when they asked Him to teach them to pray. While they saw His public performance of preaching, teaching, ministering to the needy, and performing miracles, their only request was, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Jesus’ private preparation guaranteed the success of His public performance.

As coaches & athletes, our private time is more important than what happens in the public eye. Time with Him helps during game time. Let’s make it our business to spend consistent time with the Lord.