Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac was the only player to stand during the National Anthem without wearing the Black Lives Matter shirt before an NBA game, following months of protests around the country. He later cited the Gospel when asked to explain his reasoning.

“I thought that kneeling or wearing the Black Lives Matter T-shirt doesn’t go hand-in-hand with supporting Black lives. My life has been supported through the gospel of Jesus Christ, which teaches that everyone is made in the image of God, that we all fall short of God’s glory, and that each and every one of us does things we shouldn’t do and says things we shouldn’t say, hates and dislikes people we shouldn’t hate and dislike, and sometimes points fingers about whose evil is worse, and sometimes it comes down to simply whose evil is most visible.” 

Sports journalist Jason Whitlock said, “The walk of a Christian is the path least traveled. Isaac bows to Jesus, not social media branding. He’s walking the walk!” Sports commentator Tony Dungy praised Isaac for standing for the National Anthem, saying people should listen to him. Dungy added that he often prayed during the National Anthem as a coach. “I stood and prayed during every National Anthem for the 13 years I was a head coach.”

1 Timothy 3 – Church Practice

As an ordained minister, Jonathan Issac demonstrated godly character by standing firm in his faith against the crowd. Paul was also concerned with leadership in chapter 3. He continued his instructions on church practice but shifted the focus from church members to leaders. He prioritized servant leaders who are robust, tested, and have a steadfast relationship with God. He also sought leaders with deep knowledge of Scripture who practice what they preach.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete know that as leaders go, so goes the team or church. Rather than seeking popularity, they boldly stand for Christ. Rather than pursuing selfish ambition, they care more about being worthy of leadership.

Bible Memory Verse – “[God] desires all men to be saved and to come to the full knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:4  2 Timothy 2:4 (LSB)

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute: Standing For the Gospel

Our featured book this week is Spiritual Runner (A Runner After God’s Own Heart) by Jolee Paden.                                                                                                                              

Click HERE to review.

To see our full catalog of over 200 Bible Study Guides and Devotions, click HERE