Wow! This came across my blog feed today. God's perfect timing to the blog post I JUST wrote about Tommy...such truth here.

for everyone who wants their children to love sports, but love Jesus more

from the blog http://withallherheart.com/for-everyone-who-wants-their-children-to-love-sports-but-love-jesus-more/

Playing any sport is really a gift. It is not a must, but rather a fun opportunity to enjoy one more thing this life offers with our children. More than likely, for most, it will not be a career. It may not bring fame or fortune. But, it could just bring something far more important. Something life-changing. Something earth-shattering for our children. Sports can teach our children (and us) great lessons. Ones that can last for a lifetime. Some that may impact your child’s character in a way that nothing else will. Yes, sports are very important, but more so than the sport is the lesson that accompanies it.

It is sad, and I must confess, all too often I have gotten more caught up in the position I wanted them to play or the number of great plays I hoped they would make than I did in recognizing just how God might be using the game to shape their hearts. To mold their character. To help teach them things they really need to know in life.

As this spring season is already in full swing for our family, I have realized that there are some really great things I hope for my boys to gain this year. And, yes, of course I would love a few home runs and great plays, but more so, I want them to grow and learn and evolve into faithful men who love their sports, but love Jesus more.

So here you go. These are a few of the things I want them to find or have or do in the great sports arena of life. Sometimes, I just need to be reminded of how big HIS plans are for them. On the field or off.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. { Jeremiah 29:11-3}

Thankfulness. For good health. That they would be thankful for legs that can run and arms that can swing and feet that can kick. Realizing that not all children can do these things and others may never have the opportunity. It truly is a gift not to be taken lightly.

Kindness. That they would grow to care more about their teammates than the game. An encouraging word or supportive hand will outlast any win by a long shot.

Respect. That they would learn to always respect their coaches, even if they disagree with their choices. Realizing that the coach often sees a much greater picture than they do (or their parents for that matter). Much like God does for all of us.

For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all your paths. {Proverbs 5:21}

Understanding. That they would look at the other team as Jesus does. Not just as an opponent, but as one more opportunity to treat others as Jesus would. Acknowledging any defeat with their heads held high and ‘good game!’ on the tips of their tongues.

Gratitude. That they would be grateful for the rules of the game and those who try to enforce them. Knowing that they are not perfect, but rather human just like all of us. They will make mistakes, but gratefully none of their calls will be life or death.

Appreciative. That they would appreciate the time their parents devote to supporting them. Thanking them often for encouraging them and providing what they need.

Wisdom. That they would see their time on the bench or in their least favorite position or in the losers bracket as an opportunity. One in which their character can grow and they can learn to handle adversity unselfishly. Without complaining.

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, {Philippians 2:14}

Diligent. That they would understand what it means to work hard for something and that they could see the fruit of their labors. Striving each practice and game to work as if working for the Lord, not for themselves or their coaches.

Whatever work you do, do it with all your heart. Do it for the Lord and not for men. {Colossians 3:23}

Opportunity. That they would make the most of every opportunity. To make a play on the field, but more importantly to make a difference in someone’s life. To reach out a hand or pat on the back when needed and to just be a good friend.

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. {Colossians 4:5}

God’s favor. That they would grow in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man. Just like Jesus did.

And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. {Luke 2:52}

Yes, this is my overall prayer for this season, and every season of their lives. And, by seeking His kingdom first, all those other things might be given to them as well.