“So many enemies against one man—all of them trying to kill me. To them I’m just a broken-down wall or a tottering fence. They plan to topple me from my high position.

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity but of power, love and self-discipline. – 2 Timothy 1:7 (New Living Translation)   Too often in our lives we’re tempted to hold back? I remember a time when my oldest son wanted to play organized football for the first time.

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not disaster, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:10-11 (New Living Translation)   Years ago I heard a newly appointed pastor announce to his congregation that he had a plan to make everybody happy.

“If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.” – Matthew 5:41 (New Living Translation)   As we move into the Final Four of the NCAA Basketball Tournament, it’s interesting to me that the games are often decided by executing the fundamentals. Making clutch free throws, getting the ball inbounds against a pressing defense or boxing out for a rebound can mean the difference between winning and losing. Teams that are fundamentally sound move on and teams that are...

Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. – Proverbs 21:5 (New Living Translation)   In athletics, we are always talking about luck. How many of us have heard or said something like this following a hard fought game?

But one time when they tried it, the evil spirit replied, “I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?” – Acts 19:15 (New Living Translation)   Who are you? Think about that question for a moment. Do you really know who you are?

What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered.

“In the same way, encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching. Teach the truth so that your teaching can’t be criticized.

Love the Lord your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and soul. – Joshua 22:5 (New Living Bible) How many times do we see athletes with all the physical tools fail to live up to their potential? Why does the athlete with everything going for him miss the mark and the one with limited ability bring home the prize?

Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example And when the Good Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor.

I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it. – Luke 6:47 (New Living Translation)   What exactly is a coach? Are we mentors, teachers, tutors, instructors, or trainers?

I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end. – Psalm 119:112 (New Living Translation) Just give me the ball! You could see the tenacity in his eyes each time he took the mound.