Competing...and Keeping a Good Attitude - Part 1

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Col 3:17
 
In this letter to believers in his day, Paul offers many practical instructions. Paul even provides a general guideline for situations not covered specifically in his previous statements. Even though scripture doesn’t speak intentionally to our attitudes about winning or losing, we can consider how this verse relates to maintaining a healthy attitude as we – or our children – compete. 
 
We all want to do our best when “in the game”. And we prefer winning to losing most every time. Our attitude while competing surfaces both in word and deed.  We’ve seen athletes “explode” on the court, but what can we learn from those who seek to set a good example in the game? 
 
On February 26, Apolo Ohno lined up for the Olympic 500 meter Short Track finals. Already he had become the most decorated U.S. Winter Olympic athlete of all time. After a sprint to the finish that involved two skaters falling down, Ohno was disqualified leaving the medals to the other three racers. Many athletes would’ve cussed out loud, either at their own lack of performance or at the other people involved. While Ohno has offered no Christian statement of faith, his words and deeds immediately following the event were admirable. Consider what he did:

1. He congratulated the other athletes – A handshake and kind word showed excellent sportsmanship in a moment when Ohno may have preferred to sulk out of the building.
2. He acknowledged the other athlete’s efforts – Ohno didn’t place himself on a pedestal in a field of equal competitors. Even if he had performed to the best of his ability, he admitted that he may have lost to race to someone else. 
3. He skated to the best of his ability – A simple statement, “I did my best”, indicated an Olympic perspective on his efforts. Competing, not winning, often is the greatest measure of a champion. 
4. He looked toward his next event – One game, race or match does not define an athlete’s worth. Help your son or daughter learn from the losses, and you’ll find them putting forth medal-worthy performances in the future. 

The Christian athlete can take this example much further. In word and deed, the believer can offer thanks to God, admiration of other’s God-given talents, and gratitude for the chance to compete in the first place. Help your son or daughter re-interpret the poor performances, and offer them a perspective that honors Christ.