Kay Yow was the head coach of the NC State Wolfpack women’s basketball team from 1975 to 2009. She coached an Olympic gold medal team and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. She was probably best known for the consistency of her team’s performances over the years, an overall record of 737-344, and the personal character she demonstrated on and off the court.

Her steady pursuit of excellence came from her relationship with the Lord. During her battle with cancer, she said, “I’m going through my second battle with cancer. I had it 18 years ago, and then, for whatever reason, I found that I had it again. A friend told me, ‘Kay, it is so bad that you had it returned.’ I wouldn’t say it is bad—it’s hard—but God has blessed me a hundred-fold more than anything I could face. God is my anchor. For me, my faith [in God] is everything that will get me through this. In Psalms, a passage says, ‘The Lord is the sustainer of my life.’ I believe what He says. Another great verse in Psalms says, You have cloaked me with strength for battle.’ And my favorite verse is in Philippians, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’”

1 Peter 3 – Battle Tested

Kay Yow’s behavior during difficult times demonstrated her maturity and the hope she possessed (3:15). In just five verses, Peter summarizes his thoughts with ten marks of maturity that should epitomize a Christian consistently growing in faith (1 Peter 3:8-12). The list includes unity, mutual interest, friendship, affection, compassion, humility, forgiveness, a controlled tongue, a pure life, and a peaceful temperament. The first few virtues relate to how we think and feel, while the last ones relate to what we do and speak. 

When the Bible speaks of “walking,” it often refers to a lifestyle. Any believer can walk consistently in these virtues found in God’s Word. Although there will be some stumbling, we can live a life consistent with these nine virtues as we mature in our faith.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete know that their lives and speech should consistently glorify God. Even in trials, they use suffering as a reminder to live in a way that is a positive witness to others.

Bible Memory Verse –“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 (LSB)

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute: Power of Consistency

Our featured book this week is Grit (From Daily Grind to Lasting Greatness) by Ron Brown and Gordon Thiessen. This is book 5 of The Total Athlete Series. Whether you are an athlete striving to finish strong, a coach investing in others, a parent encouraging the next generation, or a believer navigating life’s challenges, Grit will inspire you to embrace the daily grind with purpose and pursue a greatness that lasts far beyond the final whistle. Click HERE to review. 

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