I have a quote on my work desk that reads, "If you can dream it, you can do it." Walt Disney spoke those words over 50 years ago and they have inspired me to keep dreaming, and go for those dreams that God has given me. When people walk through our basketball offices at BJU and see that plaque, most of them can't help but say something about it. The typical remark is usually something like, "I have dreamt a lot of dreams in my lifetime that I was never able to do" or "I always wanted to be an astronaut and now I'm a janitor." It always makes me chuckle or smirk when I hear these things, but at the same time it is encouraging to me. I am encouraged by the fact that I am still alive with a dream and I am still chasing it unlike so many people. Although I understand that some "dreams" are unrealistic, I still choose to dream. Many people say that, "dreams are just goals without a plan", but I believe that dreams are goals filled with inspiration and creativity. We can set goals all day long, but if we are not passionate about pursuing those goals they are pointless. Just because someone out there gave up on their dreams, don't let them convince you to give up on yours. My dreams are special to me and they hold a sincere place in my heart. Walt Disney's life story is so amazing to me and to think it all started with a dream! So keep dreaming your dreams, and continue to go after those things that make you who you are! God is calling all of us to do great and mighty things, so dream big and dream often!
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!
Friday, December 14, 2012
Saturday, October 20, 2012
James Naismith, Basketball, and God
I've been reading many good books lately, but one of my favorites so far has been, "The Good Life" by Trip Lee. It has spoken to me in a real way and I'm really excited to see the impact it has on culture.
Since basketball season is just beginning, I wanted to share a snipet of Trip's book where he talks about James Naismith, the creator of the game of basketball. Many people struggle with the reality of who God is as creator, but I thought it was interesting how Trip used this illustration of James Naismith to paint a picture for us. I know in my life, I sometimes try to figure things out on my own and I think that I am in control. Instead of having the mindset that my success, and the blessings I receive are God's and were created by Him, I often take the credit, lacking humility. The following is a section taken from "The Good Life."
"For one, He is God. That statement in itself says more about Him than anything else could. He is the all-powerful Creator, Sustainer, and Owner of all things, including you and me. All of the universe belongs to Him. And the fact that He made every inch of creation makes Him the authority on how it should operate.
In 1891 James Naismith was asked to create an indoor game for the students at a unviersity. He racked his brain and came up with a new, unique game he called "basket ball." He grabbed a soccer ball, hung up two peach basketbs, and posted thirteen rules on the wall for the young men to see. They were ready to play their first game.
Now can you imagine one of the students arguing with him about what the rules were? It would be arrogant and downright silly. How could they tell Mr. Naismith how to play the game he created? Similarly, God is our creator, He has given us life, and He knows how it's supposed to work. How arrogant of us to think for a moment that we know better.
I imagine that if the students were left to themselves to figure out the game, they would have come up with a much less glorious version - throwing the ball at one another and pulling the peach baskets down. Left to our sinful imaginations, human beings will not come up with the right way to live. We'll spend our energies chasing fantasies and masquerades, blinded to the true realities of life. God's way is not only right, it's better. Using your life for hedonism is like using a Ferrari for target practice. Not only do you rob that life of its higher calling, but you destroy it in the process. God the Father knows best.
In addition to that, God's identity gives Him ownership over His creation. Psalm 24 says, "The Earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters" (NIV). That includes us.
Most of us live under the illusion that our lives belong to us, and us alone. But the truth is, you belong to your Creator. He made us, therefore we're His. It's that simple. That doesn't mean we're just objects, lacking any kind of freedom. But it does mean that rejecting God's leadership is robbing Him of something that is rightfully His.
Not to mention, He is the highest authority. There is no one He has to answer to. He did not have to be elected and He cannot be impeached. His judgements cannot be appealed and His decrees don't have to be approved by any council. He will never lose power and His term will never come to an end. He is God!
You can purchase Trip Lee's new book, "The Good Life" by clicking here.
Follow Trip Lee on Twitter @TripLee116
Follow Coach Wingreen on Twitter @CoachWingreen
Since basketball season is just beginning, I wanted to share a snipet of Trip's book where he talks about James Naismith, the creator of the game of basketball. Many people struggle with the reality of who God is as creator, but I thought it was interesting how Trip used this illustration of James Naismith to paint a picture for us. I know in my life, I sometimes try to figure things out on my own and I think that I am in control. Instead of having the mindset that my success, and the blessings I receive are God's and were created by Him, I often take the credit, lacking humility. The following is a section taken from "The Good Life."
"For one, He is God. That statement in itself says more about Him than anything else could. He is the all-powerful Creator, Sustainer, and Owner of all things, including you and me. All of the universe belongs to Him. And the fact that He made every inch of creation makes Him the authority on how it should operate.
In 1891 James Naismith was asked to create an indoor game for the students at a unviersity. He racked his brain and came up with a new, unique game he called "basket ball." He grabbed a soccer ball, hung up two peach basketbs, and posted thirteen rules on the wall for the young men to see. They were ready to play their first game.
Now can you imagine one of the students arguing with him about what the rules were? It would be arrogant and downright silly. How could they tell Mr. Naismith how to play the game he created? Similarly, God is our creator, He has given us life, and He knows how it's supposed to work. How arrogant of us to think for a moment that we know better.
I imagine that if the students were left to themselves to figure out the game, they would have come up with a much less glorious version - throwing the ball at one another and pulling the peach baskets down. Left to our sinful imaginations, human beings will not come up with the right way to live. We'll spend our energies chasing fantasies and masquerades, blinded to the true realities of life. God's way is not only right, it's better. Using your life for hedonism is like using a Ferrari for target practice. Not only do you rob that life of its higher calling, but you destroy it in the process. God the Father knows best.
In addition to that, God's identity gives Him ownership over His creation. Psalm 24 says, "The Earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters" (NIV). That includes us.
Most of us live under the illusion that our lives belong to us, and us alone. But the truth is, you belong to your Creator. He made us, therefore we're His. It's that simple. That doesn't mean we're just objects, lacking any kind of freedom. But it does mean that rejecting God's leadership is robbing Him of something that is rightfully His.
Not to mention, He is the highest authority. There is no one He has to answer to. He did not have to be elected and He cannot be impeached. His judgements cannot be appealed and His decrees don't have to be approved by any council. He will never lose power and His term will never come to an end. He is God!
You can purchase Trip Lee's new book, "The Good Life" by clicking here.
Follow Trip Lee on Twitter @TripLee116
Follow Coach Wingreen on Twitter @CoachWingreen
Monday, October 8, 2012
Broken-Down House (Chapters 1-2)
It has been a very long time since I have been on here writing! Our basketball team at BJU is going to be using the book, "Broken-Down House: Living Productively in a World Gone Bad" by Paul Tripp for our discipleship series this season. I am extremely excited to begin going through this book with our players and I am praying hard that our staff and players will grow in a mighty way!
Personally, I began reading the book tonight by studying chapters 1 & 2. I want to dig deep into the thoughts of this book, so in order to help me with that process, I am going to post what I learned, here! I hope throughout this season, you will be encouraged by the work that God is doing in my heart and in the lives of our players.
The imagery of a broken-down house is used by Paul Tripp to describe the fallen nature of our modern day world. I was challenged to acknowledge my chosen state, to be a tool in God's restoring hand. So often we want to "demolish" the world around us with complaints and bad attitudes. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 calls us to do just the opposite.
"Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work." - 2 Timothy 2:20-21
God clearly calls us to be "restorers" of this fallen world, not "demolishers." Tripp goes on to write, "He calls you and me to live in this broken-down house with hearts of patience and eyes of promise." Typically, our sinful nature brings us to complain and go through life with a "survival" mentality instead of having a mindset to "thrive." James 5:7-11 is a great passage that calls us to live in this world with "hearts of patience and eyes of promise." We need to keep our hearts focused on the call to restore this world. We need to disciple and make disciples.
I pray that Jesus will give me a heart of patience so that I can keep my eyes focused on the promises that God has made. I am excited to keep learning what God has for me in these next few months as I go through this book with our team!
Live Christ.
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter
Personally, I began reading the book tonight by studying chapters 1 & 2. I want to dig deep into the thoughts of this book, so in order to help me with that process, I am going to post what I learned, here! I hope throughout this season, you will be encouraged by the work that God is doing in my heart and in the lives of our players.
The imagery of a broken-down house is used by Paul Tripp to describe the fallen nature of our modern day world. I was challenged to acknowledge my chosen state, to be a tool in God's restoring hand. So often we want to "demolish" the world around us with complaints and bad attitudes. 2 Timothy 2:20-21 calls us to do just the opposite.
"Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work." - 2 Timothy 2:20-21
God clearly calls us to be "restorers" of this fallen world, not "demolishers." Tripp goes on to write, "He calls you and me to live in this broken-down house with hearts of patience and eyes of promise." Typically, our sinful nature brings us to complain and go through life with a "survival" mentality instead of having a mindset to "thrive." James 5:7-11 is a great passage that calls us to live in this world with "hearts of patience and eyes of promise." We need to keep our hearts focused on the call to restore this world. We need to disciple and make disciples.
I pray that Jesus will give me a heart of patience so that I can keep my eyes focused on the promises that God has made. I am excited to keep learning what God has for me in these next few months as I go through this book with our team!
Live Christ.
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter
Thursday, June 21, 2012
The Victory Is His
1 Chronicles 29:11-13 reads, "Yours, O Lord,
is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the
majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours
is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name." (ESV)
Dictionary.com defines "Victory" as,
vic·to·ry [vik-tuh-ree, vik-tree]
Although we often associate the term 'victory' with the sports arena, the true victory was won at the cross of Jesus Christ. I have been assessing myself as a coach and asking myself the question, "why do you coach?" Obviously there is a passion and desire to win championships, develop the skills of my players, and to reach the highest level of success that is possible. But if the wins, success, and reputation among my peers is the only place I'm finding victory, then I have truly lost. When I break it down to the fundamentals, there really are only three reasons I coach and they are the only things that will make an impact for eternity.
1. Discipleship within a basketball program is key. I want to disciple my players to the best of my ability to ensure that they are growing in their walks with Jesus and that they are winning off the court as well as on the court. It is also very important that I am being a disciple to the coaching staff around me. One area that is often forgotten though, is the fact that I need to be discipled as well. If no one is coaching the coaches, then we are in trouble. (Matthew 28:19)
It was the ultimate sacrifice and according to the Bible and the definition given to us by Dictionary.com, we really do have victory in Jesus! We can worship Jesus by the way we coach, the way we live, and by the legacy we leave. Next time you think about victory and winning a championship, check your intentions and make sure that you are doing everything for the glory of God!
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!
Dictionary.com defines "Victory" as,
vic·to·ry [vik-tuh-ree, vik-tree]
1. a success or triumph over an enemy in battle or war.
2. an engagement ending in such triumph.
3. the ultimate and decisive superiority in any battle or contest.
Although we often associate the term 'victory' with the sports arena, the true victory was won at the cross of Jesus Christ. I have been assessing myself as a coach and asking myself the question, "why do you coach?" Obviously there is a passion and desire to win championships, develop the skills of my players, and to reach the highest level of success that is possible. But if the wins, success, and reputation among my peers is the only place I'm finding victory, then I have truly lost. When I break it down to the fundamentals, there really are only three reasons I coach and they are the only things that will make an impact for eternity.
1. Discipleship within a basketball program is key. I want to disciple my players to the best of my ability to ensure that they are growing in their walks with Jesus and that they are winning off the court as well as on the court. It is also very important that I am being a disciple to the coaching staff around me. One area that is often forgotten though, is the fact that I need to be discipled as well. If no one is coaching the coaches, then we are in trouble. (Matthew 28:19)
2. Proclaiming the gospel to the nations is essential. Throughout the season it is vital to not only be visible in the community, but also to have a presence in the world. As coaches, we ought to make it a priority to get our teams overseas to the mission field where the gospel is scarce. If we aren't telling non-believers about Jesus, then we are failing in our call as coaches and as human beings. (Matthew 5:16)
3. Glorifying Jesus Christ in all we do is the umbrella over it all. We were put here on this earth by a marvelous Creator and he deserves all the praise we have to offer. God the Father sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to die on a cross for our sin, rise up from the grave, and give us victory. He gave us victory because he won the battle over sin. He gave us victory because he sits triumphantly at the right hand of God the Father. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
It was the ultimate sacrifice and according to the Bible and the definition given to us by Dictionary.com, we really do have victory in Jesus! We can worship Jesus by the way we coach, the way we live, and by the legacy we leave. Next time you think about victory and winning a championship, check your intentions and make sure that you are doing everything for the glory of God!
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!
Labels:
basketball,
Bible,
coaching,
God,
gospel,
Jesus,
Jesus Christ,
victory
Friday, June 15, 2012
10 Thoughts About Leadership by Jon Gordon
Just to be up front, this is a blog written by Jon Gordon. I wanted to share it here, though because I had a good time reading it! Here you go:
10 Thoughts About Leadership | Jon Gordon
1. People follow the leader first and the leader’s vision second
– It doesn’t matter if the leader shares a powerful vision, if the
leader is not someone who people will follow the vision will never be
realized. As a leader, who you are makes a difference. The most
important message you can share is yourself.
2. Trust is the force that connects people to the leader and his/her vision
– Without trust there is a huge gap between the leader and the vision.
Without trust people will stay off the bus. However if people trust the
leader they will hop on the bus with the leader and help move the bus
forward towards the vision.
3. Leadership is not just about what you do but what you can inspire, encourage and empower others to do.
4. A leader brings out the best within others by sharing the best within themselves.
5. Just because you’re driving the bus doesn’t mean you have the right to run people over
– Abraham Lincoln said “Most anyone can stand adversity, but to test a
man’s character give him power.” The more power you are granted the
more it is your responsibility to serve, develop and empower others.
When you help them grow they’ll help you grow.
6. “Rules without Relationship Leads to Rebellion”
– Andy Stanley said this and it’s one of my favorite quotes. As a
leader you can have all the rules you want but if you don’t invest in
your people and develop a relationship with them they will rebel. This
applies amazingly to children as well. It’s all about relationships.
7. Lead with optimism, enthusiasm and positive energy, guard against pessimism and weed out negativity.
8. Great Leaders know they don’t have all the answers – Rather they build a team of people who either know the answers or will find them.
9. Leaders inspire and teach their people to focus on solutions, not complaints. (The No Complaining Rule)
10. Great leaders know that success is a process not a destination
– One of my heroes John Wooden, the legendary UCLA basketball coach,
never focused on winning. He knew that winning was the by product of
great leadership, teamwork, focus, commitment and execution of the fundamentals. As a leader focus on your people and process, not the outcome.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Becoming a Bruin
Well, it feels like the past few months have been a roller coaster ride, as I've been trying to find a coaching position for this upcoming season. I'm very excited to announce that God has opened a door for me to coach at NCCAA DI, Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC. My young coaching career has been filled with mostly part-time and volunteer positions, so I am extremely thankful for my first "full-time" position where my job is to get paid to coach basketball! How cool is that?!
My wife and I have spent numerous hours praying that the right position would open up, and it has. I am looking forward to working with a great head coach in Neal Ring and being part of BJU's inaugural season of intercollegiate athletics. I didn't think that when Coach Ring first talked to me about coming to BJU it would actually happen. I had a lot of skepticism and was doubtful about the whole situation, but I guess good things happen when you talk to coaches at the Final Four!
I look forward to being part of a program where Jesus Christ is lifted high and lives will be impacted for the Kingdom of God. Anyone who knows me understands my passion for basketball and my desire to use the game to proclaim the gospel message of Jesus. I am so thankful for the opportunity to coach at an institution where I can do that. I am also grateful for my mentors who have discipled me along the way and continue to make huge impacts in my life. Coach Peter Wehry, Coach Paul Whitt, and Wayne Simien (there are many more coaches, too!) have been some of my greatest coaching role models and I appreciate everything they do. I am pumped up to begin work as a Bruin and I am ecstatic to see the awesome things God does with our basketball team!
My wife and I have spent numerous hours praying that the right position would open up, and it has. I am looking forward to working with a great head coach in Neal Ring and being part of BJU's inaugural season of intercollegiate athletics. I didn't think that when Coach Ring first talked to me about coming to BJU it would actually happen. I had a lot of skepticism and was doubtful about the whole situation, but I guess good things happen when you talk to coaches at the Final Four!
I look forward to being part of a program where Jesus Christ is lifted high and lives will be impacted for the Kingdom of God. Anyone who knows me understands my passion for basketball and my desire to use the game to proclaim the gospel message of Jesus. I am so thankful for the opportunity to coach at an institution where I can do that. I am also grateful for my mentors who have discipled me along the way and continue to make huge impacts in my life. Coach Peter Wehry, Coach Paul Whitt, and Wayne Simien (there are many more coaches, too!) have been some of my greatest coaching role models and I appreciate everything they do. I am pumped up to begin work as a Bruin and I am ecstatic to see the awesome things God does with our basketball team!
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
The Waiting Game
It's been a few months since I've been on here, but I'm happy to be back! The last couple months have been filled with excitement and I know the most exciting is still yet to come. Like many young coaches out there, I too, am waiting to see where I will be coaching next season. My email account has been overworked. I've sent out more resumes that I can even count. And my mailbox has been filling up with letters of rejection as "someone more qualified" landed that job I wanted. I'm sure you can all relate to that if you're a coach! It has definitely been discouraging at times, but I keep reminding myself that God is in control and He has the perfect plan for my life and career. That thought quickly humbles me and forces me to ask myself daily, "Are You Prepared?" Regardless of how many "NO's" I hear, I continue to press forward and make sure that I will be ready for that one "YES." Spending at least a half hour every day preparing for my next job has allowed me to stay confident that I will be the BEST person for whatever coaching job God gives to me. I've learned more in these last two months than I've probably learned over my entire coaching life so far. And the best part about that is I have only learned a very small percentage of what I can learn! I'm eager to land that next job, but in the meantime I just need to keep doing the best I can to be ready when my time comes. If you're in the same boat as I am, stay encouraged! Keep working hard and be confident in your ability to coach the game you love.
“Young man, tell yourself, ‘I will be prepared and then perhaps my chance will come, because if it does come and I’m not ready another chance may not come my way very soon again." - John Wooden
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!
“Young man, tell yourself, ‘I will be prepared and then perhaps my chance will come, because if it does come and I’m not ready another chance may not come my way very soon again." - John Wooden
Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Land the Plane Safely
“Coaching is like flying an airplane, there is going to be a lot of turbulence, but your job is to land the plane safely."
I love this #4 posting in "Brendan Suhr's Top 10 Chuck Daly "Dalyisms." I feel like this is the point in the season when this quote might really hit home. Some coaches have endured tough seasons, and others have experienced their best, but no matter which one is you, it is time to land the plane. It is time to finish strong. Hopefully you've kept your composure and stayed focused throughout the season. Stay strong. Stay committed. Rise Up.
“Coaching is like flying an airplane, there is going to be a lot of turbulence, but your job is to land the plane safely.” During the season, there are going to be a lot of ups and downs, but as the coach you have to understand you have to remain calm and poised and remember the goals that you have established for the team. On the road to each Championship season, we had major turmoil occur, but Chuck landed the plane safely.
If you have not signed up for the Coaching U newsletter...do it now at www.coachingulive.com!! Also, make sure you follow these brilliant basketball minds on Twitter @Coaching_U @brendansuhr @KevinEastman @AlanStein ...and you can follow me, too! @CoachWingreen
I love this #4 posting in "Brendan Suhr's Top 10 Chuck Daly "Dalyisms." I feel like this is the point in the season when this quote might really hit home. Some coaches have endured tough seasons, and others have experienced their best, but no matter which one is you, it is time to land the plane. It is time to finish strong. Hopefully you've kept your composure and stayed focused throughout the season. Stay strong. Stay committed. Rise Up.
“Coaching is like flying an airplane, there is going to be a lot of turbulence, but your job is to land the plane safely.” During the season, there are going to be a lot of ups and downs, but as the coach you have to understand you have to remain calm and poised and remember the goals that you have established for the team. On the road to each Championship season, we had major turmoil occur, but Chuck landed the plane safely.
If you have not signed up for the Coaching U newsletter...do it now at www.coachingulive.com!! Also, make sure you follow these brilliant basketball minds on Twitter @Coaching_U @brendansuhr @KevinEastman @AlanStein ...and you can follow me, too! @CoachWingreen
Friday, February 3, 2012
Wear Red
Friday, February 3rd is National Wear Red Day®. The American Heart Association and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have asked everyone to wear Red in support of heart health awareness. I am privileged to have the opportunity to speak to a group of high school students Friday night at a basketball game in Burlington, WI. It happens to be my old high school, so it should be fun. My topic is, "The heart of the matter is always the matter of the heart." I am excited to share my story and how heart disease has influenced my life. From an early age, basketball was my "true love." I was one of those kids that was always in the driveway working on my game. It didn't matter whether it was 20 degrees and snowing, or if it was midnight and the neighbors (or my parents) were sleeping. If the basketball got icy and flat, I would have two more in the rotation...waiting in the warm water of the bathtub. I always had to be getting better. Unfortunately, heart disease took away my ability to play basketball competitively. Adversity came, and bitterness settled in. It took many years before I was truly able to embrace the situation and turn it into a positive blessing. Once I realized this setback was all a part of God's sovereign plan, I began to see ways in which I could use it to impact others. My love and passion for coaching is that avenue, and I want to use it all to glorify Jesus. If having a heart disease allows me to share the gospel message of what Jesus Christ did on the cross for me, then it is all worth it. "The heart of the matter is always the matter of the heart." Wear Red this Friday!
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Rise Up - Part II
RISE UP! This is truly a calling from God. And don’t be fooled, this isn’t some insignificant calling. This is big time. As we embrace the titles of husband/father to our families, leaders in the church, and coach/mentor to our players, RISING UP needs to carry a significant meaning to us. The fact of the matter is that the greatest coach of all-time, Jesus Christ, knew the true definition of RISING UP. He was sent to this earth, fully God and fully man, for one reason and one reason only. His purpose: to take our punishment for our sin. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17. The love Jesus had for us put him on the cross to take the punishment that we deserved. Three days later, there was an empty tomb. Jesus literally and physically fulfilled the calling of his Father to RISE UP! And by doing so, we were made alive in Christ!
We are now called to live in the image of God, but how do we do that? What do we need to focus on every day in order to RISE UP? Ephesians 5:13-14 says, “But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, ‘Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.’” Because Jesus shined his light on us, the ability to RISE UP was made possible.
There are three aims that we need to focus on in order to RISE UP successfully.
First, we commit to MAKE THE BEST USE OF OUR TIME (Ephesians 5:15-17). Legendary coach, Jim Valvano once said, “There are 86,400 seconds in a day. It’s up to you to decide what to do with them.” Scripture commands us to not be fools, but instead “…understand what the will of the Lord is.” God has called us to RISE UP, and we cannot accomplish that if we waste our lives by giving in to our flesh. We are called to greatness and we need to spend our time doing things that will last for eternity. Instead of turning on the TV when you get home, talk to your wife and play with your kids. In place of your free time on the internet, take that time to invest in the lives of your family or players. “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you.” – Isaiah 60:1
Secondly, we commit to HAVE A CLEAR MIND, FILLED BY THE SPIRIT (Ephesians 5:18-19). Keep a clear head. Do not give in to the pressure. This verse specifically condemns drunkenness and the effects it has on our minds, but there are many more things that can mess with our clearness of mind. Adversity will present itself, but how you respond to that adversity will determine what you’re made of. Make prayer a daily routine and ask the Lord for guidance and direction with every decision you will have to make throughout the day. You never know when you will have to draw up that last second play in crunch time. Keep a clear head, give all your heart to Jesus, and the opportunity to RISE UP will be right there waiting for you.
Lastly, we commit to GIVE ALL THE GLORY TO JESUS CHRIST (Ephesians 5:20-21). I firmly believe that God wants us to RISE UP in everything we do. He is our biggest fan. What is your response when someone is cheering for you? You want to please them! As God gives us multiple opportunities to RISE UP, all he wants from us is a thankful heart and a motivation to direct all the glory to him. Remember that victorious display Jesus put on when he conquered death at the cross? There was urgency for mankind’s need of a Savior. Jesus gave us that saving grace on the cross. Because of the life Christ has given us, we can RISE UP to anything we are called to do! I am so thankful for all the blessings God has placed in my life and my only desire is to live for His glory! When your only purpose is to give God the ultimate glory in everything you do, there is no other option than to answer the call, RISE UP!
“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”
“Rise up and let your light shine. A city on a hill cannot hide!”
This is a follow up post to the original post "Rise Up"
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Nations of Coaches
Lately, I have been very encouraged by the coaches ministry, Nations of Coaches. I was first introduced to this ministry in the Summer of 2010 and have been greatly impacted since. Their goal is to give coaches the resources they need to lead their families and teams all while making an impact for the glory of God. I have met some outstanding people who are involved with this ministry and have been truly blessed by their relationships. Every year at the Final Four, they conduct ministry events that focus directly on worship and the discipleship of coaches. Although the games and networking are fun, these ministry workshops are the reason I want to go to the Final Four every year. In the mean time, however, Nations of Coaches conducts a weekly conference call to, "encourage and strengthen coaches to use their God-given talents for His glory and to discuss relevant issues coaches are dealing with." These conference calls feature several godly coaches from across the country who share 30 minute devotionals and challenge us in numerous areas. I would strongly recommend for you to tune in sometime and see just how impacting these things are. The conference calls take place on Sundays at 8 PM CST. For information regarding the "Victory Call," visit their website, Nations of Coaches. If you would like to listen to past "Victory Calls," a direct link to the archives is "Victory Call" Archives. I hope that you find this ministry an encouragement to you as you begin the final stretch toward the end of the season.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Winning the Battle
This morning, my pastor at Harvest Bible Chapel in Rockford, preached an outstanding message entitled, "Winning the Battle Over Sin". I instantly knew that I wanted to share this on my blog not only because it is so convicting and powerful, but also because he relates it so strongly to the sports arena. His whole point was to encourage us and inform us of the necessity it is to "make war" with our sin on a daily basis. So many times we find ourselves just doing the typical "Christian" thing and making sure we are just doing OK. But I was really challenged in this message to take initiative and really take a "Holy violence" against my sin. He had 3 things we need from Colossians 3:1-7 that he used to make that point to us. The three points were:
1. You must have a good OFFENSE
2. You must have a good DEFENSE
3. You must have good TEAMMATES
The entire passage talks about our utter dependence on God and how me must put on a "New Self." I thought it was so awesome how he related sports analogies to our walk with Christ. I was extremely convicted of my walk with Jesus and how I am playing "defense" too often. I just want to fight sin and stay out of trouble. But Jesus really encouraged me to take the "offensive" in winning the battle over sin. I was also struck back by how important it is to have the right 'teammates' on your side to encourage you in your walk. Instead of summarizing the entire sermon in this blog post, I would rather allow you to listen to it yourself. I STRONGLY ENCOURAGE you to listen to this sermon while your working out in the morning or while your driving your daily commute to/from work. I feel like this idea of "making war" or "winning the battle over sin" really needs to be strengthened in my walk as a Christian and I believe that it can be directly translated to the way I coach a basketball team. I hope you are as encouraged by this message as I am and I would love to hear your feedback!
1. You must have a good OFFENSE
2. You must have a good DEFENSE
3. You must have good TEAMMATES
The entire passage talks about our utter dependence on God and how me must put on a "New Self." I thought it was so awesome how he related sports analogies to our walk with Christ. I was extremely convicted of my walk with Jesus and how I am playing "defense" too often. I just want to fight sin and stay out of trouble. But Jesus really encouraged me to take the "offensive" in winning the battle over sin. I was also struck back by how important it is to have the right 'teammates' on your side to encourage you in your walk. Instead of summarizing the entire sermon in this blog post, I would rather allow you to listen to it yourself. I STRONGLY ENCOURAGE you to listen to this sermon while your working out in the morning or while your driving your daily commute to/from work. I feel like this idea of "making war" or "winning the battle over sin" really needs to be strengthened in my walk as a Christian and I believe that it can be directly translated to the way I coach a basketball team. I hope you are as encouraged by this message as I am and I would love to hear your feedback!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Encouraging Others
Nothing is more powerful than our words. The words we say can impact someone's life in a great and mighty way. As coaches, it is crucial for us to realize this and emphasize the importance of encouragement amongst our team. Not only do we have to make sure our players are mindful of their words, but we have to be an example of this in our own lives. Paul writes in his letter to the church at Ephesus about the importance of their speech. "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." - Ephesians 4:29. This is a powerful verse. Author and leader of Sovereign Grace Ministries, C.J. Mahaney, describes this verse in further detail in his book, Humility: True Greatness. Mahaney writes, "'Let no...but only...' There's a certain kind of speech that's never to come from our mouths, and another kind that should be in everything we say." I was taken back when I read that because it is true that God is very precise in telling us what kind of speech we need to have. As a coach, I know that I am not always saying things to my players that is probably giving them grace or uplifting them. I know we can't be perfect, but I want to strive to be that kind of coach. In order to effectively communicate like this, we need to know each individual player on our team. Talk to them, get to know them as a person, and figure out in what ways we can best communicate with them. We need to be able to edify each player with appropriate and timely words. And finally, the biggest area that I need work in and probably most coaches need work in is: How do I edify my players when I am trying to correct them? Every area of correction needs to be directed to the gospel. If we can't give our players hope in the gospel, then our correction is going to be wasted. I have been really convicted of my words as a coach, and I know that I need this more than anybody. I strongly encourage you to read Humility: True Greatness by C.J. Mahaney if you get the chance. It is a great book and most of this has come from it. Keep coaching "coram deo" and remember your purpose as a coach is to ultimately bring glory to God, not yourself.
Monday, January 2, 2012
S.M.A.R.T.E.R. Goals in 2012
As the New Year rolls in, the number of people setting goals and resolutions is overwhelming. Statistics show that 92% of the population that sets goals for the new year will ultimately fail. This occurs because so many people aren't specific in their goal setting. They make lists and put a lot of thought into it, but they really aren't ready for the task. I see so many people just say they want to do "more." I want to exercise "more", read "more", spend "more" time with my family, or do "more." What does more mean? I think that is most likely the number one reason why only 8% of goal setters reach their goals (and I honestly think that 8% is a little high). Here is an acronym that I believe is essential in reaching your goals. I have applied this to many areas of my life and I find that is beneficial in accomplishing things that I set out to do. We have to set S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals:
S: Specific. Give yourself details about your goals. Your focus level will rise if it has specific details.
M: Measurable. Instead of just doing "more", give yourself a number. Try to read 30 pages per day or exercise 20 minutes a day doing 50 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, and a 1 mile run.
A: Attainable. Break your long term goals down into a lot of smaller goals that you can reach on a short term.
R: Relevant. Make sure that the goals you are setting will benefit you in everything you do.
T: Trackable. Stay organized. Make checklists and keep track of all your successes and failures along the way.
E: Extra Effort. Some days you will not feel like taking those steps towards your goal. Do it anyways. Always give a little more, it will go a long ways.
R: Revise & Review. Constantly be checking to make sure you are heading in the right direction and you are taking the right steps in pursuit of your goals.
I firmly believe that setting SMARTER goals will enable us to accomplish a lot more and keep us focused on the task at hand to reach our goals. Have a Happy New Year and God bless in 2012!
S.M.A.R.T.E.R acronym taken from the book, The Strange Secret of the Big Time by Frosty Westering, 2005.
S: Specific. Give yourself details about your goals. Your focus level will rise if it has specific details.
M: Measurable. Instead of just doing "more", give yourself a number. Try to read 30 pages per day or exercise 20 minutes a day doing 50 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, and a 1 mile run.
A: Attainable. Break your long term goals down into a lot of smaller goals that you can reach on a short term.
R: Relevant. Make sure that the goals you are setting will benefit you in everything you do.
T: Trackable. Stay organized. Make checklists and keep track of all your successes and failures along the way.
E: Extra Effort. Some days you will not feel like taking those steps towards your goal. Do it anyways. Always give a little more, it will go a long ways.
R: Revise & Review. Constantly be checking to make sure you are heading in the right direction and you are taking the right steps in pursuit of your goals.
I firmly believe that setting SMARTER goals will enable us to accomplish a lot more and keep us focused on the task at hand to reach our goals. Have a Happy New Year and God bless in 2012!
S.M.A.R.T.E.R acronym taken from the book, The Strange Secret of the Big Time by Frosty Westering, 2005.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)