“And David said unto Michal, It was before Jehovah, who chose me above thy father, and above all his house, to appoint me prince over the people of Jehovah, over Israel: therefore will I play before Jehovah.”
-2 Samuel 6:21 (ASV)
Most of the time when I was involved in sports, I had very few people rooting for me in the stands. Yet, when my family could come to watch me, I was very keenly aware of where they were at in the stands. I remember one particular high school track meet near Cincinnati. My parents were there watching, my brother and sisters were present, and many of my classmates were there, so I wanted to do my very best.
In the Old Testament, we read that King David was involved in bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. As he was doing so, he became caught up in the moment. Before they had taken more than a half dozen steps, David halted the procession to offer a sacrifice to God. He literally rejoiced at every step.
The Bible tells us that David leaped and “danced before the Lord.” He didn’t care who else was watching, just as long as the Lord was. His excitement was contagious. Others soon became caught up in the celebration, too. They shouted and blew on trumpets as they proceeded into Jerusalem. It must have been a grand parade.
When we play our particular sport, we must remember that even if no one else is watching, we too are playing before God. He sees our attitudes, our sportsmanship, our efforts, our failings and our successes. He watches us as a father would. When we give our best, play with Christian sportsmanship in mind, and give others a positive role model to watch, He is pleased. Keep that in mind as you compete today.
1. Are you playing for the crowd or for God?
2. How can you remind yourself when you step onto the field/court that your heavenly Father is watching?
1 Samuel 16:17
Matthew 3:17
Colossians 3:23