For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you (Romans 12:3NIV).
“Guarding, that’s what it comes down to,” said Booker a member of the 2021 men’s Olympic basketball team for the USA during an interview after the game that earned his team a spot to compete for gold. Although the USA team had fallen behind by as many as 15 points in the second quarter and trailed behind by three points by halftime, team USA made a remarkable comeback! They progressed to compete for a gold medal by winning the game against Australia 97-78. After interviewing additional USA players, they agreed with Booker, the offense improved but—the team’s defense had made all the difference.
When we look at examples like that of the Team USA athletes playing basketball, it takes everyone working together to get the best outcome possible for the team. Even if one is actually better than the other, it takes all players doing their part in their positions, to be successful.
In taking a closer look at basketball, there are five positions to be played during the game. However, despite someone being a good shooter doesn’t mean they should negate the other players and always take that shot. In fact, other team players might be at a better vantage point to make the shot. Additionally, when the team wins, and certain players score the most points, they don’t get the the right to say they won the game for the team, dismissing what the other players did defensively.
This same analogy applies to the saints (no, not my beloved Louisiana team, but team members) of God. We might be one body “in Christ” but there are numerous members. It takes many to serve on God’s team. He gives everyone various roles, gifts, and talents. It is up to every member to operate in their role, to love, and lift each other up. In the end, we’re all are on the same level, made mighty by God to worship Him, bring others to Christ—guarding, each other, that’s what it comes down to.
Father God, please help me to play well with others and to have a selfless, forgiving, and grudge-free heart when I’m wronged and hurt. Help me to show Christ and not the disappointments of this life when there are losses and the fiery darts of attack. Help me to love like Jesus and to rejoice with all my heart when I’m victorious! In Jesus name, Amen!
Your turn: Do you sometimes find it challenging to "play" well with others when you get hurt, and or disappointed by people?
If not, please share how you do it!