As followers of Jesus, we are called to be salt and light in the world, including on the basketball court. Yet, sometimes, even in a friendly competition, we can find ourselves tempted by pride, striving to outplay others not out of love for the game but out of a desire to prove our worth. I confess, I’ve been there. I’ve fallen into that trap, focusing on winning at all costs, not for the glory of God but for my own ego. But that’s not why we play this game.
In Philippians 2:3, Paul warns us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Basketball, like life, is an opportunity to demonstrate the love of Christ. It’s not about overpowering or degrading others. It’s about working together, pushing each other to be the best versions of ourselves, and giving glory to God in everything we do.
Famed NBA coach Phil Jackson once said, “The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.” This echoes the biblical principle of honoring one another and building each other up. When we play with the mindset of unity and selflessness, we reflect God’s heart.
When we allow pride to dictate how we play or coach, we lose sight of the real purpose—building each other up, not tearing each other down. Romans 12:10 tells us to “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” That’s a reminder for us on and off the court. Every game we play is an opportunity to reflect the heart of Christ, to play with integrity, humility, and respect for our opponents.
Michael Jordan, one of the greatest to ever play the game, said, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.” Basketball isn’t about individual glory; it’s about lifting up the people around us. As Christians, this translates to honoring those we compete with, knowing that our worth isn’t tied to the scoreboard but to who we are in Christ.
Stephen Curry, another devoted follower of Christ, reminds us of this truth: “I know why I play the game, and it’s not to score 30 points a night, but to use the stage I’ve been given to glorify God.” Basketball is more than a sport—it’s a ministry. It’s a platform where we can show the world what it means to live in unity, to encourage and uplift one another. Let’s remember that each time we step onto the court, we have the chance to bring people together, not divide them. May we always seek to glorify God, not ourselves, in how we play and how we live.
Let’s pray together: Father, help us see basketball as an opportunity to demonstrate Your love and humility. Keep us from the trap of pride and competition for the wrong reasons. Let us play with a spirit of unity, always lifting up others and honoring You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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