The shoe wars between Nike and Reebok exploded when Michael Jordan balked at putting on the official United States Olympic Committee awards ceremony uniform in 1992. It featured a Reebok patch on the right shoulder. Jordan was making millions from his contract with Nike, so he opposed the rival brand. He had been saying for weeks before the ceremony that he wouldn’t put on the Reebok uniform.

Eventually, Jordan put on the uniform but carried an American flag over his right shoulder so the Reebok patch wouldn’t be visible during the national anthem. He even recruited several members of the Dream Team, Charles Barkley and Magic Johnson, to join him.

Romans 13 – The New Self

In Romans 13, Paul ends the chapter with the idea of “putting on” something, such as Christ (Gal. 3:27), “the new self” (Eph. 4:24). In sports, either shoes, jerseys, or jackets are part of an athlete’s identity, signifying their team or sponsor. To “put on” something is to believe a particular way and then act accordingly. What we “put on” displays our true identity in Christ, which reminds us to be aware of our identity and the example we set on the court or field.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete put on Christ by following Him in discipleship, letting their lives be conformed to the image of Jesus (Roman 8:29). They are clothed in Christ, so others see Him and not them.

Journaling helps you understand and respond to the Bible. As you journal, use the acronym HEAR to Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond to what you have read in the reading plan.

Bible Memory Verse – Do not be wise in your own mind. Never paying back evil for evil to anyone, respecting what is good in the sight of all men, if possible, so far as it depends on you, being at peace with all men. Romans 12:16b-18

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute on Obey Authorities