The Dallas Cowboys’ Ring of Honor is a ring around Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. It honors former players, coaches, and club officials who made outstanding contributions to the Dallas Cowboys football organization.

The Ring of Honor was established in 1975, and Dallas designated it as Bob Lilly Day. As the first honoree, Lilly wore his Cowboy uniform once more and graciously accepted the honor. Only nine players were honored during the first three decades of the Cowboys’ existence. Its creator, Tex Schramm, the team’s general manager for many years, became only the 12th person selected for the Ring of Honor.

2 Timothy 4 – Lonely Leadership

Paul mentions five faithful men in Chapter 4 who would make up his apostles’ ring of honor. He wouldn’t have called it a ring of honor, but these important men were likely sent by Paul during his first or second imprisonment. Luke was the third faithful man who remained at Paul’s side and provided provisions for him during his first Roman imprisonment. Unlike the Cowboys’ ring of honor, Paul also lists a ring of dishonor that includes Alexander. Alexander had moved away from Paul and revealed his true spiritual condition by actively opposing him and the gospel.

Most coaches know that loneliness often accompanies leadership. There were years when I coached an entire basketball season without a single parent thanking me for the investment I had made in their son or daughter. I doubt any of them felt ill will toward me. They were mostly preoccupied with their own needs and probably never considered affirming me. There were also times when a decision I made was misunderstood. Most spiritual leaders, like Paul, can identify with opposition and the loneliness that comes with leading people. There will be seasons when our faith is stretched further than we can imagine, but we must stand firm in the Lord because eternity is at stake, not just winning games.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete depend on their intimate relationship with the Lord when facing opposition. They lean on His truth and recognize that their strength doesn’t depend on others’ affirmation but only on pleasing their Savior!

Bible Memory Verse – “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16 (LSB)

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Our featured book this week is 2 Timothy (The Faith Contending Coach) by Shannon Caughey. This is an 11-week Bible study for coaches who want to contend faithfully for Jesus and the gospel.

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