Of all the New Testament writers, I think the apostle Paul must have loved athletics and competition the most. He could weave excitement into a principle of godly living simply by illustrating his point with some kind of game or sport.

• "...If anyone competes as an athlete, he does not win the prize unless he competes according to the rules." (II Timothy2:5)
• "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win." (I Corinthians 9:24)
• "...Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things..." (I Corinthians 9:25)
• "Ye did run well..." (Galatians 5:7)
• "...I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain." (Philippians 2:16)
• "I press toward the mark..." (Philippians 3:14)

Although I never considered myself to be a gifted athlete, the Lord gave me five children who are passionate about sports and have turned out to be excellent athletes. They have taught me about football, baseball, soccer, basketball, weightlifting, barrel racing, hunting, fishing, running, swimming, wrestling, boxing, and rock climbing.

I must say that, with all their skill -- and my lack of it -- I was not sure how I could influence them to reach their full potential. No matter how hard I tried, they were always faster, stronger, and smarter than their old dad when it came to sports. What could I offer them? How could I have an important part in this aspect of their lives? I turned to the Lord and the apostle Paul for answers.

Teach them the rules.
If I want my children to avoid sin, I must help them to "hide the Word in their hearts." Likewise, if I want them to play honestly, they must know the guidelines. When sportsmen and athletes compete, they should play fair. Rules give everyone an equal footing, respect, opportunity, and the ability to demonstrate their maximum skill. Ignorance opens the way for disqualification, failure, wasted energy, and misappropriated expense. I have never regretted instructing or admonishing my children to heed the rules.

Teach them to how to win.
Over and over again, we have held mock horse shows in the back yard. We practice horsemanship in the field, on the road, and on the trail. It may not always be a rigorous workout, but each time we ride we develop our skills and knowledge. Practice is essential to winning. There's only one prize, and only the best will obtain it. If you truly desire to win, you must diligently put in the time and effort. We practice correct riding so that we perform at our best.

Teach them self-control.
In our family, the champion is expected to show humble gratitude, and the other exhibitors are to demonstrate grace and sportsmanship. Nobody flaunts his victory in the face of another. When my children win a ribbon or trophy at a horse show, they remove their hat and thank the show steward. When they lose, they congratulate the winner. If a basketball team member misses a perfect shot, they encourage him to do better the next time. Self-control is the mark of a professional: it gains the respect of the audience and the peers.