Tim Tebow continues to make headlines long after his glory days in sports. It has been years since he won the Heisman or scored an NFL touchdown, yet he continues to impact lives and set an incredible example as a Christian role model. No doubt, part of that is his perspective on success. When asked about success, he said, “Success is not about money, fame, and power. It’s about the difference you can make in someone else’s life.” He shifted his focus from himself to what really matters, such as fulfilling others’ needs.

While many Christian coaches or athletes have received positive press for reasons beyond sports, few have filled an entire resume with “good works” outside their sport, as Tim Tebow has. Can you think of another athlete or coach who has taken as many mission trips as he has, or who has planned 375 proms for people with special needs? Not to mention the man he aided and prayed for during an in-flight medical emergency?

3 John 1 – Love Demonstrated

Like 2 John, 3 John is a personal letter from John that underscores the importance of obedience to God by loving one another. This letter is addressed to Gaius, who, like Tebow, set a similar example by offering hospitality and love to others passing through his town. John loved Gaius and trusted him to do the right thing. Gaius’ example showed other believers how to put Jesus’ command to “love one another” into practice. As many people traveled through his region, they needed housing, food, and financial support. John commended Gaius for meeting these needs. He opened his heart, home, and hand to fellow Christian teachers, and we should do the same.

John also wrote about another man named Diotrephes, who was a poor example of love for others. Diotrephes is singled out for his pride, stubbornness, and desire for personal gain. He didn’t walk in the truth of love for others. From John’s comparison, it’s clear that actions speak louder than words about the condition of a believer’s heart.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete show they walk truthfully by loving their teammates and coaches. They fight spiritual pride, humble themselves before the Lord, and demonstrate the virtues of love, hospitality, generosity, and integrity.

Bible Memory Verse – “Be merciful to those who doubt.” Jude 1:22 (LSB)

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute: Setting An Example

Our featured book this week is Uncommon Athletes (Lead with Passion. Ignite Your Purpose) by Tim Brown. This book provides the passion to inspire greatness in sports and life. It is a powerful and practical guide for achieving excellence in competition. Tim Brown brings his vast experience working with athletes and coaches at every level to this helpful resource. It is engaging reading for any audience. If you want to be an uncommon athlete, you have to choose the seven hallmarks of PASSION: P – Preparation, A – Adjustment, S – Sacrifice, I – Integrity, O – Overcoming, and N – Nerve.

Click HERE to review. 

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