“The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing,
while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.”
– Proverbs 13:4 (ESV)

Two talented quarterbacks, each very capable of leading our team. Deciding which one would start in our season opener was an easy decision for me to make. Jake was tall, athletic and a gifted runner. Ty was smaller, not as talented, but could throw the ball well. What separated Jake and Ty was their approach to the game. Jake was always late getting dressed and onto the practice field. He would take plays off during practice and loaf during conditioning. It was obvious to our coaches and to Jake’s teammates that he was lazy. Ty, on the other hand, was always on time, he always gave his best effort, and it was exciting to see him improve with each practice. With Ty leading our team, we not only won our first game, but we went on to an undefeated season.

Laziness is not a new condition. King Solomon addressed the problem head on in his day. His words tell us that we can’t allow our athletes to get away with being lazy. Lazy people regardless of position, are rarely successful. John O’Sullivan, former professional soccer player and founder of the Change the Game Project says, “It is our responsibility as coaches to teach kids to be humble, to be hungry, and to be great teammates. It amazes me how many coaches ignore this responsibility because a player’s talent might lead the team to a win.” Coaches are teachers—let’s teach lessons that reward hard work.

Heavenly Father, help me to give my best effort today. Give me the courage to challenge my players to also give their best, not only on the field or court, but in life. Amen.