The One Who Allows You to Play

by John Michalak

The lofty looks of man will be brought low, the haughtiness of men will be bowed down, and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. Stop trusting in man, whose breath is in his nostrils; for of what account is he?

Isaiah 2:11, 22

People often complain when an athlete is interviewed after a game and thanks God for the victory.

What is he thinking? Does he really believe God wanted his team to win over the other team? And how dare he make us uncomfortable by mentioning religion during a sporting event?

But, here’s what’s funny. They probably aren’t just offended by the mention of religion. They’re offended because someone they worship, the athlete himself, is mentioning another God.

Too often, our admiration of sports figures, celebrities, and politicians have all the looks of worship. We celebrate their latest triumphs, we wear their clothes, we live out their lifestyles, we echo their beliefs. And then we sing a few praise songs in church, not realizing that we spend far more time honoring men than honoring God.

Do an honest inventory on how you live and what you believe. How much is really sourced in God? And how much is sourced in the temporary glories of man?

Perhaps the lesson we should actually learn from those interviewed athletes is that they give credit where credit is due.

In all you think, say, and do: honor the God who allows you to play in the game.