Holy Bible - For Football Fans - English by Christian Media Publishing

NIV

HOLY BIBLE New International Version

FOR FOOTBALL FANS HOLY BIBLE

FOOTBALL NOT JUST A

GAME! As you stand with a lu

mp in your throat

singing the National Anthem wit

h your team

As you sit on the edge of your seat as your striker takes a penalty

As you shout Olé, spurring your team on

As you are overcome by emotion

e cup

as your team lifts up th

You will agree with Bill Shankly that there is nothing more important...

‘Some people believe football is a matter of life and death ... It is much, much more important than that.’ - Bill Shankly

This Bible that you are holding was borne out of our passion for the game of football. Its aim is to build a bridge between your love for the game and God’s love for you. God loves us and our world much more passionately than fans can ever love football.

Fans paint their faces in their team colours and proudly wear their team kit to show their commitment. In the same way God has given us a concrete sign of His love for us. In Jesus, God showed His love and commitment to us and the world we live in. 1

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FOOTBALL NOT JUST A

GAME!

Today God uses Christian footballers to touch the lives of millions of people around the world who watch and play the beautiful game. As Lúcio says: ‘Anyone who thinks that he has everything, but doesn’t have Jesus, doesn’t have anything. I think the person who has everything is the one who has Jesus. He has happiness and peace. With Jesus in your heart you need have no fear.’ Kaká testifies with the same passion and grace that he displays on the football field: ‘Nothing compares with the peace of knowing and serving Christ. I have been named best football player in the world. This was a great honour for me. But the greatest honour is serving Jesus Christ, because He gives me hope.’ This Bible acknowledges and celebrates our love and passion for football. It hopes to show that the 90 minutes on the pitch are about more than just football. This Bible draws on the many lessons the game offers for life and faith. It shares the passion God has for our lives so that you, the player and fan, may experience the same peace and joy that Lúcio and Kaká have experienced.

CONTENTS 1

The hand of God

Players on God’s team

Jesus, the Player with the ‘X-Factor’

How to join God’s winning team

Game plan for life!

Playing as a team

The Manager says ... Motivational talk

Part of God’s winning team: Our new kit

Dealing with our fouls and misconduct

Green cards: How to get back into the game

Playing God’s winning game: Soul training

Living our commitment to God’s winning team

Everyone makes mistakes and experiences failure 53

Is winning everything?

Goal!

30 day training programme with Jesus

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Gallo Images/Getty Images

One of the most (in)famous moments in World Cup football history changed the outcome of the 1986 quarter-ﬁnal between Argentina and England. Six minutes into the second half, Peter Stilton, the English goalkeeper, came out of his goal to clear the ball. At 1.85 metres, Stilton was the favourite to beat Diego Maradona (1.65 metres) to the ball. Unexpectedly, the Argentine captain reached the ball first, and scored with the outside of his left fist. The referee did not see the foul and allowed the goal.

A PHRASE WAS COINED:

At the press conference after the game, Maradona claimed that the goal was scored ‘un poco con la cabeza de Maradona y otropoco con la mano de Dios’.

‘A little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.’

The hand of God

Today, years after Maradonna’s famous World Cup winning goal, people still say it was unfair that one team won and the other lost because of that incident.

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When the Bible speaks of God’s hand it conveys something of His caring and gracious nature. God extends His hand to include everyone, unlike Maradonna’s action that only favoured his own team. The Bible teaches the following about God’s gracious and compassionate hand: Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. - 1 Peter 5:6

‘My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; and no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.’

The apostle Peter was overwhelmed by how powerful God is. He knew we can only accomplish great things through God. Our response should be to humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand.

Jesus teaches us that we are safe because we are held in the Father’s hand.

- John 10:29

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. - Ephesians 2:10

God’s hand is soft, gentle and gracious. He always looks at us with soft, kind eyes ﬁlled with grace.

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Players on

NWANKO CHRISTIAN KANU Born 1 August 1976 Nwanko Christian Kanu a striker for the Nigerian national team and more recently the English club Portsmouth, is the most highly-decorated African footballer. He has won more than ten awards, including an Olympic Gold medal, a UEFA Champions League medal, a UEFA Cup medal and two African Player of the Year awards.

AKA PAPILLO THE KING

Soon after returning from the 1996 Olympics, a medical examination revealed a serious heart defect. In November 1996 he underwent heart surgery, only returning to his club in April 1997. Kanu frequently mentions his Christian faith in interviews. He has often spoken about this diﬃcult period in his career as a time when he prayed to God.

Kanu’s experience led to the founding of the Kanu Heart Foundation in 2000, an organisation that helps African children and young adults living with heart disease. Kanu is known throughout Africa for his humanitarian work. He is also a UNICEF ambassador.

Gallo Images/Getty Images

The most goals scored by one player in a single football match was 16.

Nwanko Christian Kanu

Stefan ‘Stanis’ Dembicki French played for RC Lens December 1942.

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Players on

RICARDO IZECSON DOS SANTOS LEITE Born 22 April 1982 Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, known worldwide as Kaká, is a Brazilian midfielder who currently plays for the Brazilian national team and Real Madrid. Many consider him one of the best footballers of his generation. In 2007 he won both the Ballon d’Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year awards.

in 2003, he wore a T-shirt stating:

‘I belong to Jesus’

in English, a language he does not speak.

KNOWN AS

KAKÁ

Kaká’s goal celebrations appear simple: He raises both hands and lifts his head to the sky as he runs away from the goal. But the significance of these gestures is far greater than meets the eye. It tells the story of one of the world’s most devoted Christian footballers who openly testifies to his faith in Christ.

Gallo Images/Getty Images

Kaká actively uses his status as a professional athlete to promote his faith.

He has made a habit of wearing T-shirts with a clear Christian message under his kit. When he scores a goal, he reveals the message to the crowd. After winning the Champions League Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite

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‘To those who already have Jesus: You have made the best choice and are in the best team. Go ahead. Do not give up. The ﬁght is great, but we can only win being on Jesus’ side.’ To those who have not yet surrendered their lives to Jesus: ‘What are you doing being outside of this team? Come to learn the Word of God, come to know who God really is.’ Kaká thanks God for his recover y from an almost paralysing accident in 2001 when he was 18.

He is known for his humanitarian work and campaign against poverty. In 2004 he became the youngest Ambassador Against Hunger in the United Nations World Food Programme.

WORLD CUP WINNERS

Gallo Images/Getty Images

Kaká is open about his intentions. He is a member of Atletas de Cristo (Athletes of Christ). In his interview with them, he mixed the language of faith with the language of football:

BY COUNTRY

Brazil Italy Germany (West) Uruguay Argentina England France Spain

5 4 3 2 2 1 1 1

Lionel Messi

(Argentina and Barcelona) became the first player to score five goals in a Champions League match in March 2012. A few weeks later, he broke César Rodríguez Álvarez’s club record of 232 goals to become Barcelona’s all-time leading goal scorer. By the end of 2012, Messi had achieved a record 91 goals in club and international games, breaking Gerd Müller’s 1972 record of 85 goals in a single calendar year. Messi’s final record in this astounding season came in January 2013, when he was named the FIFA Ballon d’Or winner for the fourth time.

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Players on

TIMOTHY MATTHEW HOWARD Born 6 March 1979 Tim Howard, goalkeeper for the US national team and the English club Everton, has played football since he was six. He told Athletes in Actiona his remarkable story.

Tim uses his position as a professional athlete to encourage others with Tourette’s Syndrome. He is actively involved with Athletes in Action.

At the age of ten, he was diagnosed with Tourette’s Syndrome, a neurological disorder characterised by physical and verbal tics. In the midst of a life that seemed chaotic, he counted on the calm and stability his grandmother provided.

GOALKEEPER

Today Tim says: ‘The most important thing in my life is Christ. He’s more important to me than winning or losing or whether I’m playing or not. b Everything else is just a bonus.’

Gallo Images/Getty Images

‘Nana’s sense of peace was so powerful because it came from her faith in the Lord. Through her, God revealed His love for me. It wasn’t long before I was following in her footsteps. I wanted the same kind of faith and peace she had.’

Timothy Matthew Howard

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WAYNE SANDILANDS Born 23 August 1983 Wayne Sandilands is a South African footballer. He is goalkeeper for Bafana Bafana, the South African national team, and for Mamelodi Sundowns. Wayne shared his story with Moreletapark Media.c He achieved top honours as a goalkeeper throughout his childhood and teens. His parents were very supportive, providing all the

GOALKEEPER

extra training and skills development he needed. But when Wayne turned professional, he soon suffered disappointment. He wasn’t used to not being selected and being the best in his team. Besides his struggles with disappointment and fear, Wayne realised that he did not share the joy he saw in some of his Christian friends. He realised that his motives were wrong. He was playing for his own glory, instead of giving the glory to God.

Wayne now lives to glorify God in everything he does – on and off the field. Whether he plays or not, Wayne’s life is God’s to use as He sees fit. God is his audience of One. c [stories] Wayne Sandilands, http://vimeo.com/47516078. Gallo Images/Getty Images

You can watch his testimony on:

Wayne Sandilands

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVI90nk_2Sc

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JESUS (the Player with the ‘X-Factor’) Over the years, there have been footballers with the ability to change the direction of a game in the blink of an eye. Players such as Bobby Charlton, Pelé, Gerd Müller, Éric Cantona, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Robin van Persie are all considered to have the so-called ‘X-factor’.

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JESUS (the Player with the ‘X-Factor’)

Jesus Christ

is the ‘X-Factor’ on God’s team.

What makes Him such a special player on God’s team? What are the qualities or skills that give Him the ‘X-Factor’?

This is the story of Jesus Christ (the Player with the ‘X-Factor’) A Child is born to a peasant woman in an obscure Middle Eastern village. He grows up in another tiny village of no reputation. He works as a carpenter until He is thirty. Then, for three years, He is a travelling preacher with an inspired message of unconditional love and grace. He never owns a home. He never writes a book. He never holds any office. He never marries or has any children. He never goes to college. He never sets foot in a big city. He never travels two hundred miles from the place where He was born. All the credentials that usually accompany greatness are missing from His life. But the news about this Man of love and grace spreads like a raging fire across the land. People from all walks of life crowd around Him, hanging on His lips. While He is still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turns against Him. His friends run away from Him.

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JESUS (the Player with the ‘X-Factor’)

This is the story of Jesus Christ (the Player with the ‘X-Factor’) continued ...

One of those closest to Him denies ever knowing Him. Another betrays Him for a mere 30 pieces of silver.d He is turned over to His enemies. He endures the mockery of a trial. He is nailed to a cross between two thieves. As He is dying, His executioners gamble for the only pieces of property He has on earth - His clothes. When He is dead, He is laid in a borrowed grave through the kindness of a friend. Amazingly, this remarkable story does not stop here. Three days after His gruesome death, this Man rises from the dead. His resurrection is the living proof that He is, as He claimed, the Saviour, the Son of God who became Man. Twenty long centuries have passed. But this Man remains the Prize of the human race. He has blazed a trail through the centuries and continues to change lives today.e

d Worth almost nothing in any currency. e Adapted from Dr James Allan Francis, ‘Arise Sir Knight!’, fromThe Real Jesus and Other Sermons, Judson Press, Philadelphia,1926,http://www.holybible.com/resources/poems/ ps.php?sid=47

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This comment by James Allan Francis could serve as an introduction to Jesus’ Player Profile: ‘All the armies that ever marched, all the parliaments that ever sat and all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man upon this earth as powerfully as has that One Solitary Life of Jesus Christ.’ Whatever you might believe, Jesus significantly changed the course of history. God’s Player with the ‘X-factor’ changed the lives of people more than anyone else ever has or ever will. He wants to do the same for you. Someone once made the wise comment: ‘I have learned that life isn’t like a DVD player - you can’t fast-forward the bad parts. But I have also learned that Jesus Christ is in every frame, and right now that’s enough.’

s is in every frame of the past, Jesufuture of your life. No matter what the game present and of life throws at you, if you are on Jesus’ team He will teach you to play using a different, winning strategy.

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GOD’S

TEAM

in G o j o H ow t

n inni g team w ’s

In football, as in any other sport, winning is the objective: ‘You can have the top stars to attract the attention, you can have the best stadium, you can have the best facilities, you can have the most beautiful project in terms of marketing and all these kind of things. But if you don’t win ... all the work these people are doing is forgotten.’

scoring the most goals or even being the best team in the world. You are a winner (or a conqueror) because no matter what happens in your life you have the assurance that God’s love and support will help you to overcome any difficulty you encounter.

- José Mourinho

- Romans 8:37

Being a part of God’s Kingdom team makes you a different kind of winner. It is not about being the best player,

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Why, then, do people not automatically experience this abundant life?

The reason is that we

are all sinners.

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You never forget the ﬁrst time you pull your team’s jersey over your head. Wearing the team colours transforms you into a committed player or a loyal fan. The following colours will help you to become a player on God’s winning team.

Blue

God loves you and He has a game plan for your life

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. - John 1:12

Nothing you can do can make God love you more - or less! God is good and beautiful: He wants everyone to share in His goodness and beauty.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16

Jesus promised: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” - John 10:10

a God wants you to live e. full and meaningful lif 15

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GOD’S

TEAM

in G o j o H ow t

n inni g team w ’s

In the Bible, red is associated with sin. The Bible teaches:

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (of God’s standard of perfection) - Romans 3:23

Red

Jesus shed His blood for you

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8

The bad news is you are guilty and you need to be saved because you cannot save yourself.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 6:23

The good news is that Jesus died and paid the penalty for your sins so that you can be saved.

He rose again to prove that He had triumphed over sin and death.

Christ died for our sins ... he was buried ... he was raised on the third day ... - 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

You are saved by believing in Jesus and accepting His free gift of Salvation.

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White

is the colour of cleansing and Salvation

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9

After you accept Christ, the Bible says:

The new creation has come: the old is gone, the new is here!

In Christ you are completely forgiven and He makes you a new creation.

‘Come now, let us settle the matter,’ says the LORD. ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.’ - Isaiah 1:18

He washes away all your sins, so that you can stand before Him, whiter than snow.

- 2 Corinthians 5:17

moves the stains Jesus Christ’s blood re pure and clean. of sin so that you are

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GOD’S

TEAM

in G o j o H ow t

Jesus is in heaven. He promised:

My Father’s house has many rooms ... I am going there to prepare a place for you. I will come back and take you to be with me ... - John 14:1-3

His people will live with Him there forever. God is waiting with open arms to accept you onto His winning team.

If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As the Scripture says, ‘Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.’ - Romans 10:9-11

n inni g team w ’s

Gold

Is the colour of heaven – our home stadium WHY NOT PRAY TO HIM: Dear God, I know that I am a sinner and that I need You. Please forgive me. I believe that You sent Jesus to die for me, and that He rose again. I now ask You, Jesus, to come into my life and change me into the person You created me to be. Please help me to live for You. Thank You for saving me. Amen.

Is there anything preventing you from connecting with God right now?

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Plants need light, water and good soil in order to grow. In the same way, Christians need Jesus, His Spirit and His Word in order to grow spiritually.

Green

Is the colour of growth in our new life of faith in Christ

The Word of God feeds and nourishes us.

Man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. - Deuteronomy 8:3

Jesus says, ‘I am the light of the world.’ - John 8:12

‘Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.’ - John 7:37-39

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever! Amen. - 2 Peter 3:18

are Never forget who you play! or on whose team you 19

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ccessful football One of the marks of a su play according to a game team is their ability to the ey will be annihilated by plan. Without a plan th true of life: opposition. The same is es. iple or plan for our liv We need a guiding princ A coach determines his team’s game plan in order to place them in the best possible position to play a winning game. In the same way God has a game plan for your life.

Following God’s plan will help you live a fruitful life. In most of the other sections we dip in and out of God’s Word giving you as wide an exposure to the Bible as possible. In this section we are challenging you to ‘read big’ - so, longer Bible passages are quoted for your reflection.

To help you formulate your game plan for life we have structured this section around the following four principles: d

Communicating with Go Learning His ways has for your life Developing the plan He and Living the plan

AN GAM E PL FOR LIFE! 20 soccer 20131218.indd 20

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G COM MUNICATIN WITH GOD – YOUR MANAGE R

Once you have joined God’s winning team He communicates His plan for your life. God does this through the Bible – His Manual for life. Psalm 119:105 says: His word is a lamp to my feet, a light to my path. You communicate with God through reading the Bible and by praying to Him. When was the last time you prayed? If you have difficulty praying try thinking of it as simply talking to God. Why not use this prayer that Jesus taught us as a starting point for communicating with God:

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. - Matthew 6:9-13

Prayer is a way to help you to understand your Manager and His game plan for your life. REFLECT ON: t? ficult to pray in the pas • Have you found it dif it easier? ke ma ve abo n tio ges • Did following the sug 21 soccer 20131218.indd 21

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LEARNING GOD’S LAW OF THE GAM E Each manager has his own philosophy and rules of how the game should be played. When you join a new club you have to study and learn the club’s rules. When we connect with God He reveals His philosophy and His rules to us. There are 17 basic laws in football. When you play on God’s team there are Ten Laws. ‘I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 1. ‘You shall have no other gods before me. 2. ‘You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. 3. ‘You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name. 4. ‘Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labour and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. 5. ‘Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you. 6. ‘You shall not murder. 7. ‘You shall not commit adultery. 8. ‘You shall not steal. 9. ‘You shall not give false testimony against your neighbour. 10. ‘You shall not covet your neighbour’s house. You shall not covet your neighbour’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour.’ - Exodus 20:2-17 REFLECT ON:

e rules or are they ments a set of restrictiv • Are the Ten Command happiness? guidelines to freedom and what do you see? ments up like a mirror and mm Co Ten the d hol you • If 22 soccer 20131218.indd 22

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LEARNING GOD’S LAW OF LOVE

GAME PLAN FOR LIFE!

The Ten Laws can be reduced to one Law -

God’s Law of Love

If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: in this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. - 1 John 4:15-21

REFLECT ON: ut loving God? • What did you learn abo ut loving others? abo • What did you learn 23 soccer 20131218.indd 23

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DEVE LOPING T

H E PL A N

DETERM INING WHAT IS IMPORTANT

God’s development plan for your life requires you to merge your internal values with your external actions. This quote from Stephan Covey speaks

about determining internal values:

life will be the source of ‘Whatever is at the centre of your power.’ your security, guidance, wisdom, and The Scripture below deals with both internal values and external behaviours. In the light of the Scripture below and Covey’s statement it might be necessary to reassess what is at the centre of your life.

Therefore each of you must put oﬀ falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbour, for we are all members of one body. ‘In your anger do not sin’: do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love... - Ephesians 4:25-5:2

REFLECT ON:

of your life? can develop • What is at the centre ce in your life so that you pla e tak to d nee s nge • What cha ernal behaviours? internal values and ext 24 soccer 20131218.indd 24

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H E PL A N DEVE LOPING T DETERMINING WHAT IS IMPORTANT GAME PLAN FOR LIFE!

Take some time to determine the values by which you want to live your life. As we learnt, development has to take place internally before behaviour change can happen externally in our lives. Developing God’s Game Plan for your life means you cannot only concern yourself with material things. When you decide that pleasing God and living by His values is the most important thing to you, then He will truly become the centre of your life. The Bible clearly promises that when this happens you can trust Him to take care of the other details of your life: REFLECT ON:

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. - Matthew 6:31-34

the centre from making Jesus Christ • What is preventing you p His promises? • Do you trust God to kee

of your life?

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DEVE LOPING T

H E PL A N

IMAGINI NG YOUR NEW MISSION

God has a special, unique mission for you. This mission and the choice to live by God’s values and make Him the centre of your life need to line up with each other. Unless your mission matches the things that are important to you, you will experience conﬂict in your life. God has equipped you with unique spiritual gifts to help you to accomplish and perform your mission:

We have diﬀerent gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. - Romans 12:6-8

Finding our mission is a process that God reveals to us gradually over time. Begin by using your talents and gifts to serve others every day. As you do this you will discover that there are certain things that feel right for you.

REFLECT ON:

your mission is? can do to find out what • What are the things you n? sio mis r ered so far about you • What have you discov

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AN LIVING TH E PL SKILLS FOR

ON AND OFF THE PITCH

GAME PLAN FOR LIFE!

As we listen to God and learn what is important to Him we will be able to align our life’s mission with His calling. He requires one thing from us: that we practice the Law of Love in our daily lives. This is non-negotiable with God.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practise hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.

“

Football is simple, but the hardest thing to do is to play simple football.

“

Johan Cruyﬀ, the famous Dutch footballer said:

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. - Romans 12:9-21

(See also Matthew 25:34-40)

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LIVING TH E PL

SKILLS FOR ON AND OFF THE PITCH

And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. - Micah 6:8

The great command given by our Manager is:

‘“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”’ - Matthew 22:37

Living out the great commandment means the following:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 REFLECT ON:

noticed for the first is there anything that you • As you read the texts, d’s love? will find difficult time about living out Go of Love that you think you Law the of s • What are aspect e plan? to integrate into your gam 28 soccer 20131218.indd 28

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AN LIVING TH E PL THE POWER GAME PLAN OF JOY FOR LIFE!

It is easy to become caught up in winning or losing; forecasts and results. The enjoyment of football is in playing the game. The fun is in competing and each team playing their best game on the field. There is joy in seeing who can perform the most tricks and how many passes can be strung together. There is huge reward in being the one to finish and score, to save a goal or slide tackle; even when you have to play in the rain or work hard in the sun to juggle the ball, football is still fun. Defining one’s game plan and living out God’s love in the world can be challenging, but God wants you to enjoy life and live it to its fullest.

‘The diﬀerence Jesus makes in my life is that I know ... I will always have joy ... This is independent of the situations I face or will face ... because I am sure that Jesus is in control of my life.’ - Kaká

...the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:4-9

- Nehemiah 8:10 REFLECT ON:

your life? • What brings you joy in challenging? e joy even when life is enc eri exp to ble ssi • Is it po r joy? • Who is the source of you 29

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AN LIVING TH E PL A GAM E PLAN FOR EVE RY SEASON

Football players and teams have good seasons and bad seasons. Footballers are substituted when they become tired, injured or they are not performing well. God never promised us that life will always be easy. There are times when you will struggle to hear His voice; there will be times when living the Law of Love will be hard and there will be times when you doubt your game plan. It doesn’t matter if you are having a bad season or not; in God’s team you are never substituted. No matter what the game of life throws at you, you can rely on your Manager’s support right up to the final whistle.

Psalm 23 promises us: The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staﬀ, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

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Playing as a

–iable a-nm tne on egot

Teamwork is vital to the success of any team. You can have an excellent game plan, but if you do not execute it as a team it comes to nothing. This is why coaches always talk about the importance of becoming a cohesive unit. Unselfishness is the backbone of a great team. Even if you have a group of superstars: if they do not work well as a unit, the chances are the team is not going to be successful. God’s team shares many of these same principles. For God playing as a team is non-negotiable. The following verses highlight the importance that the Bible places on teamwork. When you read this section be on the lookout for the words one another.

ut teamwork.

rds when it speaks abo

The Bible uses these wo

Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling-block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. - Romans 14:13

‘A new command I give you: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.’ - John 13:34

Read Romans 12:9-21 on page 27 again. 31

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Playing as a

teamth– e edge

gives you

Playing together as a team is the distinguishing factor between winners and losers. Often the teams with the best players do not win championships; but rather it’s the teams who work well together that accomplish great things. When you read the verses below, try to determine what the factors are that give God’s team the edge?

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (See also Galatians 6:2)

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10 (See also 1 John 1:7)

Mia Hamm has this to say about teamwork: ‘I am a member of a team,

and I rely on the team; I defer to it and sacriﬁce for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion.’ American football player

interact with others The way we care for and s on His team. distinguishes us as player

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Playing as a

– t ea m es strengths

max imis knesses and reduces wea In team sports each member works together to secure a win. Individual weaknesses are minimised through the collective efforts of the team. In football for example, a weaker defender receives help from a mid-fielder in blocking a pass, thus successfully countering an attack move from the opposition. As players on God’s team, we need to be aware of our weaknesses; we must surround ourselves with players who can support and complement our individual playing style.

... so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. - 1 Corinthians 12:25

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, rather, in humility value others above yourselves. - Philippians 2:3 (See also Ephesians 5:21)

‘Football is an honest game. It’s true to life. It’s a game about sharing. Football is a team game. So is life.’ - Joe Namath American footballer

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Playing as a

teame g– ame fun

makes th

A team who enjoys playing together can achieve great success, while at the same time having fun doing it. When we play together on God’s team we glorify His name. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. - Romans 15:7

And let us consider how we may spur one another on towards love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching. - Hebrews 10:24-25 (See also Ephesians 5:19)

’re a unit, not you understand that? We ‘Here we pass the ball, shirt is more me on the front of the a one-man show. The na - Tony Adams on the back.’ important than the one

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THE MANAGER SAYS ...

MOTIVATIONAL

TALK

Coaches have varied motivational skills. Some shout and scream, demanding life-sacriﬁcing eﬀort. Others again use a cool, calculated approach to trigger positive energy within the team. God has a unique approach. He motivates you for the game of life through His promises, no matter how difficult your circumstances. Although each person’s crisis is individual to them, experiences such as fear, difficult decisions, sin and disappointments are as old as human beings are. (Remember Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden?) What we learn from the Bible is that we can trust God’s promises in difficult times. He is a Promise-Keeper.

PROMISES TO REMEMBER

WHEN YOU FACE

FEAR

What is your greatest fear right now?

God’s Word says to you: I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you. - Genesis 28:15 (See also Deuteronomy 31:8)

‘… and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honour me.’ - Psalm 50:15 (See also James 4:8a)

‘You get the best effort from others, not by lighting a fire beneath them, but by building a fire within.’ - Bob Nelson American Comedian & Actor 35

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THE MANAGER SAYS ...

MOTIVATIONAL

TALK

PROMISES TO REMEMBER

WHEN YOU FACE A

TOUGH DECISION Are you struggling with a difficult decision? What are the things you are worried about?

God’s Word says to you: If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. - James 1:5 (See also John 8:12)

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. - Psalm 32:8 (See also John 14:26)

PROMISES TO REMEMBER

WHEN YOU HAVE

COMMITTED A FOUL ‘All good athletes make mistakes; the great ones learn to make that mistake only once.’ - Raúl López Spanish basketball player

Has a sin you committed hurt other people? Have you experienced forgiveness for your sin?

God’s Word says to you: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9

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THE MANAGER SAYS ...

MOTIVATIONAL

TALK

PROMISES TO REMEMBER

WHEN YOUR GAME

PLAN FAILS

Are you facing a situation that you can no longer handle? What would you like to ask the Lord for right now?

God’s Word says to you: ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ - Jeremiah 29:11

‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.’ - Matthew 11:28

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. - James 4:10

‘Failure happens all the time. It happens every day in practice. What makes you better is how you react to it.’ - Mia Hamm American football player

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THE MANAGER SAYS ...

MOTIVATIONAL

TALK

PROMISES TO REMEMBER

WHEN YOU NEED

AN ASSIST

Are there situations in your life that are causing you to feel trapped? In what ways do you need God to empower you?

God’s Word says to you: This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him. - 1 John 5:14-15

‘But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.’ - Luke 12:31

PROMISES TO REMEMBER

WHEN YOU FACE

TEMPTATION What are the temptations you are struggling with?

God’s Word says to you: No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. - 1 Corinthians 10:13 (See also 2 Thessalonians 3:3) 38 soccer 20131218.indd 38

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PART OF GOD’S WINNING TEAM

OUR NEW KIT A football kit is a symbol of everything a team stands for. Every season, fans eagerly wait to see what their heroes will be wearing in the year ahead.

A footballer’s kit consists of a shirt, shorts, socks, football boots and shin guards. The name on the front of the shirt tells people about the football team. Christians also have a kit. Our new kit carries the sign of the Cross - signifying that we belong to God’s team. The Cross tells the story of Jesus - and it tells others that we have chosen to follow in His footsteps.

‘Once we really see God for who He is and ourselves for who we are and were that’s cause for celebration.’ - Todd Fields Worship Leader

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PART OF GOD’S WINNING TEAM

OUR NEW KIT One of the ways in which we celebrate our new life in Christ is by putting on our new kit every day.

We become more and more like Jesus when we ... Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 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. - Colossians 3:12b-17

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9 DEALING WITH OUR

FOULS AND MISCONDUCT A player receives a yellow card as a warning.

Yellow C a rd R ed C a rd

Two yellow cards in a single match means a player automatically receives a red card. And a straight red card means a player is sent off the field.

In life, as in football, there are fouls or misconduct that can take you out of play. These fouls are the attitudes, feelings and behaviours that break God’s Law of Love. They hurt God, you and others. We call this sin. Sin disrupts your performance on the playing field of life. When this happens you step out of God’s game plan for your life.

What is sin? Throughout the ages, the following have been identified as the seven ‘deadly’ sins – yellow or red cards for players who are on Jesus’ team. We will look at what the Bible has to say about each of the seven sins, so that we can avoid them and not be disqualified from the game.

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Yellow

Card

Envy is the selfish desire to have what belongs to someone else.

But if you harbour bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. - James 3:14, 16

Love ... is kind. It does not envy ... - 1 Corinthians 13:4

Anger - or wrath damages relationships by holding onto hurt and offences instead of forgiving.

‘In your anger do not sin’: do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.

Red

Card

Pride - also called arrogance or conceit - is an exaggerated belief in yourself and your own abilities. It is called the devil’s favourite sin because it leads to an unhealthy independence rather than a healthy dependence on God’s grace.

In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. - Psalm 10:4

‘For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.’ - Luke 14:11

Apathy - or idleness

- Ephesians 4:26-27

means being inactive, not making any effort or working at anything. It also means not caring about life or people. The Bible calls it being lukewarm.

‘But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, “Raca,” f is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, “You fool!” will be in danger of the fire of hell.’

‘So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold - I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, “I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.” But you do not realise that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.’

- Matthew 5:22

- Revelation 3:16-17

f An Aramaic term of contempt.

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Greed is the excessive,

selfish longing for material possessions and physical desires that is never satisfied. Enough is never enough.

Then he [Jesus] said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.’ - Luke 12:15

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. - 1 Timothy 6:10

Lust

is intense, uncontrolled sexual urges and desires.

‘You have heard that it was said, “You shall not commit adultery.” But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.’ - Matthew 5:27-28

For everything in the world - the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life - comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives for ever. - 1 John 2:16-17

Gluttony

is self-indulgence in overeating and excessive drinking.

Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags. - Proverbs 23:20-21

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GREEN CARDS

HOW TO GET BACK INTO TH E GAM E Footballers know that there is no green card to guarantee their inclusion in any side. They have to be at the top of their game; they have to be the most skilled player in their position in order to be sure they will receive their call-up to the squad.

Green Card

The difference for us, as Christians, is that we have all been called up and included in God’s squad - because of His grace, not because we have obeyed a set of rules. It is His free gift to us not an achievement we have earned by our own effort. Only His grace can get us onto the field. Out of gratitude for what He has freely given us, we now concentrate on our daily drills so that we can live a life that pleases Him.

God gives us abundant grace in Jesus Christ: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast.

- Ephesians 2:8

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The Bible says there are seven values that can be compared to green cards. These will help you to keep your life God-centred. They will keep you on the pitch and off the bench. These values are known as the ‘seven virtues’ and they counter the seven yellow and red cards that disqualify us from the game of life.

Purity - antidote to Lust

It is to be blameless in all your thoughts and actions.

‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.’ - Matthew 5:8

Kindness

- antidote to Envy It is a practical expression of love; kindness helps and cares for others.

Humility

- antidote to Pride It is the ability to forget about yourself; rather considering God and others as more important.

Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honour of life. - Proverbs 22:4

Perseverance

Love is kind.

or faithfulness - antidote to Apathy It is the ability to endure. Persistence despite hardship, opposition or discouragement.

Patience

[Love] ... always perseveres. Love never fails ...

- 1 Corinthians 13:4

- antidote to Anger It is the ability to endure hardship calmly and consistently; with acceptance, and a positive attitude.

Love is patient.

- 1 Corinthians 13:4

Generosity

- antidote to Greed It is the willingness to freely give of what you have to others.

‘Freely you have received; freely give.’

- 1 Corinthians 13:7-8

Self-control

- antidote to Gluttony It is the ability to put limits on your behaviour, showing respect for God, yourself and others.

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

- 2 Timothy 1:7

- Matthew 10:8b

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GREEN CARDS

HOW TO GET BACK INTO TH E GAM E

One of the greatest stories about grace is told by Jesus in Luke 15:11-24.

received a red card; but instead, he The younger son deserved d. car en amazing grace - God’s gre ‘There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, “Father, give me my share of the estate.” So he divided his property between them. ‘Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set oﬀ for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. ‘When he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.” So he got up and went to his father. ‘But while he was still a long way oﬀ, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms round him and kissed him. ‘The son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” ‘But the father said to his servants, “Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” So they began to celebrate.’

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PLAYING GOD’S WINNING GAME:

SOUL TRAINING

No footballer can succeed without regular, aggressive training. No successful footballer maintains his form without consistent, intense practice and discipline. Team practice is never optional! In the Christian life we practise spiritual disciplines. The regular practice of these disciplines or exercises bring our focus back to God, keeping Him central in our lives and opening us to what He is saying to us. The aim is to spiritually transform us. As we see Jesus more clearly and spend time with Him, we will become more like Him.g The Bible is very clear about the need for Soul Training:

Train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. - 1 Timothy 4:7b, 8

‘One can define discipline as: doing what you have to do, doing it as well as you possibly can, and doing it that way all the time!’ - Unknown

‘The pain of discipline or the pain of regret ... take your choice.’ - Unknown

g Adapted from Adele Ahlberg Calhoun, Spiritual Disciplines Handbook, IVP, Downers Grove, 2009.

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PLAYING GOD’S WINNING GAME:

SOUL TRAINING DAI LY DRI LLS ts to be on the No football player wan to the ﬁeld while substitutes’ bench next in action on the the rest of the team is d’s Kingdom Team, pitch. However, in Go hes us time On the bench teac to perform the disciplines we need well On the pitch. mme h a helpful training progra The daily drills provide t. to keep us spiritually fi

On the bench slow down, Looks at seven exercises that help us to t our life and stop and wait. We need time to think abou withdraw from reflect on our relationship with God. We go back onto the game for a short time so that we can the pitch with new focus and energy.

On the pitch Looks at seven exercises that teach us about our Christian faith and help us grow by living it out daily. h Daily drills. The two lists and categories of spiritual disciplines on pages 49 and 50 have been adapted from Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines, HarperCollins, New York, 2009 and Adele Ahlberg Calhoun, Spiritual Disciplines Handbook, IVP, Downers Grove, 2009.

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On the bench

Solitude

Spending time alone without any distractions.

Silence

No noise or talking – just you and God

Sacriﬁce

Doing without something so that you can help someone else who has less than you do.

Slowing down

Learning to enjoy the moment, not losing yourself in busyness.

Self-care

Valuing, nurturing and protecting your body, mind and spirit by setting healthy limits.

Unpluging

Leaving the world of social media and technology for a short time to focus on God.

God honestly about your weaknesses and failings so that He can forgive, change and restore you.

Gallo Images/Getty Images

Confession Telling

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PLAYING GOD’S WINNING GAME:

SOUL TRAINING On the pitch

Bible study

Reading, studying, memorising Scripture and using Bible study aids.

Prayer

Talking to God regularly in prayer. Praying the Psalms can be helpful.

Practising God’s presence

Developing a continual awareness of God’s presence living in and with you.

Thanksgiving

Learning to be grateful and thankful to God and others.

Worship

Singing and praising God with other Christians as well as in your times alone with Him.

Fellowship

Meeting regularly with other Christians to grow in your faith.

Service

Giving your time to help other Christians and non-Christians.

The soul training that we have touched on in this section teaches us how to walk with Jesus beyond the moment He rescued us. The apostle Paul describes the purpose of Soul Training in 2 Corinthians 3:18 -

And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

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LIVI NG OUR T TM E N COM M IIN NING TEAM

TO GOD’S W

When a player joins a football club he commits for at least one season. During his tenure a player abides by the rules of the club and follows the instructions of the manager. He commits to giving his best to the club, the team and the fans. As players on God’s winning team our commitment to His team and our pledge to living by His principles is a lifelong one. Let’s look at some of these guiding principles:

BE A WITNESS FOR JESUS

I commit myself to be a witness for Jesus in what I say and do, in the power of the Holy Spirit, as He leads me. (Acts 1:8)

SPEND TIME WITH GOD

I commit myself to spend time with God in prayer; to reading and understanding the Bible in order to draw closer to Him. (Psalm 1:2-3; John 15:1-8; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)

LOVE OTHERS AS CHRIST LOVES YOU

I commit myself to love others as Jesus loves me - unconditionally forgiving them, accepting them, and welcoming them with hospitality as He enables me. (John 13:34-35; Romans 15:7; Colossians 3:13-14; Hebrews 13:2)

SERVE OTHERS WITH MY GIFTS

I commit myself to discover, develop and celebrate the gifts God has given me; and to serve others, as His Spirit leads me. (John 13:1, 12-17; Romans 12:1-8; 1 Peter 4:10)

LIVE WITH INTEGRITY

I commit myself to live with integrity 24/7, whether I am alone or with others, by always living a life that pleases God. (Romans 13:13-14; Ephesians 5:10; Colossians 3:5-17) 51 soccer 20131218.indd 51

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MAKI NG A COM M I T M E N T TO GOD’S WINN

ING TEAM

Be joyful and grateful I commit myself to finding joy in God and being grateful to Him in all circumstances for all He has done for me. (1 Thessalonians 5:16, 18; Habakkuk 3:16-18; Philippians 4:4)

If you would like to commit to these principles then make the following pledge: As a follower of Jesus Christ, with God’s help, I want to live out these commitments, so that I may make a difference in my daily life: in my home, my neighbourhood, my workplace, my school, my community, my town, my country, and wherever I may find myself in the world. I also commit myself to encourage other Christians to live as followers of Jesus, because -

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it ... - Psalm 24:1

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13 EVERYONE MAKES

MISTAKES AND EXPERIENCES

FAILURE

Throughout the history of football, teams have lost games. We understand the reasons for this. A team member makes a mistake. A player unintentionally scores an own goal that proves to be the winning goal for the opposing team. A usually reliable goalkeeper unexpectedly lets a ball through; and the opponents chalk up a goal. A referee slips up in a big way with a crucial decision that costs one team the game – like missing a blatant handball that scores the winning goal. Because football is like a religion to many fans, they crucify officials who make wrong, game-changing decisions as well as players whose mistakes let their team down. However, the truth is that we all make mistakes. Mistakes and failure are a part of life. What counts is what we do with them. The Scottish preacher Alexander Whyte was right when he said: ‘It is falling down and getting up, falling down and getting up, falling down and getting up, all the way to heaven.’

The important question is: How do you handle your mistakes or failures? Do you get up after you have fallen, or do you stay down? Sir Winston Churchill wisely said:

‘Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.’

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EVERYONE MAKES

MISTAKES AND EXPERIENCES

FAILURE The apostle Peter failed more than once. In Matthew 14:28-32 he failed his walking-on-water test. Jesus responded by lifting him up and helping him back into the boat. After Jesus was arrested Peter denied Him three times, saying that he did not know Jesus (Matthew 26:69-75). Even after this terrible failure Jesus did not turn His back on Peter. After Jesus’ resurrection Peter was one of the first people to whom He appeared.

‘It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon [Peter].’ - Luke 24:34

Jesus totally restored Peter.

Failure should never stop you from doing what God has called you to do. ‘It’s not whether you get knocked down; it’s whether you get up.’ - Vince Lombardi ‘The secret to life is not how to begin, but how to begin again. It is not given to man to begin; that privilege is God’s alone. But it is given to man to begin again ...’ - Elie Wiesel

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?”

Jesus wants you to remember - failure is an event, never a person.

He said Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said,“Feed my sheep.”

Whenever you make a mistake, hold onto this fact:

- John 21:15-19

You failed at something; but you are never a failure!

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IN THE EVENT OF

FAILURE

Get up and move on But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on ... - Philippians 3:13b-14a

Mistakes can haunt you if you keep thinking about them. Instead allow God to teach you a life lesson through them.

Focus on Jesus’ unconditional love For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. - Romans 8:38-39

Look for the positives Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. - Philippians 4:8

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g n i n n ing? Is wriy h t e ev In any football tournament the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA Cup or a local club championship - there can only be one winner. Vince Lombardi made the following comments about winning: ‘If you cannot accept losing, you cannot win. There will always be more losers in sport than winners!’ ‘If it doesn’t matter who wins or loses, then why do they keep score? That’s why teams train, after all - to win!’

Peter Shilton former English goalkeeper

t you’re going to win, ‘You’ve got to believe tha World Cup until the final and I believe we’ll win the cked out.’ whistle blows and we’re kno 56 soccer 20131218.indd 56

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For God - our Manager the focus is not on winning, but on how we play the game of life. For God winning is not the ultimate goal. In the game of life, all Christians are winners:

I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 3:14

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. - 2 Timothy 4:7-8

The American Sports writer, Grantland Rice’s famous quote is applicable here:

Scorer comes ‘For when the One Great e, He writes not that nam r you t ins to mark aga you played the Game.’ you won or lost, but how

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Goal! “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” - Revelations 1:8

There is probably no other word in football that causes as much excitement as the cry, ‘GOAL!’ from the lips of a football commentator or thousands of fans. A goal sends players running around the field, sliding onto their knees; team mates hugging the goal scorer, while passionate fans shout their cheers and chants from the stands.

The aim of the game is to score goals. We have dealt with numerous principles relating to becoming and being a Christian. However, in faith there is only ONE GOAL and it is spelt: J-E-S-U-S.

live like To be like Jesus and to

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant oﬀering and sacrifice to God. - Ephesians 5:1-2

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. - Philippians 3:7-8a

Jesus - is our ultimate

goal.

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Day 1

Luke 1 - Preparations for Jesus’ coming. The birth of the Messiah (the Christ) was prophesised for centuries. People waited for Him, but they never anticipated the possibility of a virgin birth. Always remember that God makes the impossible possible.

Day 2

PRAY Psalm 119:1-5

Luke 2:1-7 - The birth of Jesus. In a stable in a small town named Bethlehem, something happened that changed our world forever. God’s Son, Jesus Christ, became human and was born in a manger. Has Jesus changed your world?

Day 3

PRAY Psalm 119:6-10

Matthew 2:1-12 - The wise men seek Jesus. Gold, frankincense and myrrh were not only the most expensive gifts, but also the most valuable. The wise men went home with an even greater gift; they met the King of the universe and He changed their lives forever. Have you accepted The Gift called Jesus?

Day 4

PRAY Psalm 119:11-15 Mark 1 - The beginning of Jesus’ ministry. In the middle of all the bad news, there is the good news that no one and nothing can ever stop the kingdom of God. Jesus is the everlasting proof of this good news - God rules as King!

30-day

PRAY Psalm 119:16-20

TRAINING PROGRAMME

with JESUS

Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’ - John 14:6

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Day 5

John 1:35-51 - Jesus calls His first followers. Jesus does not call able, successful people. He calls the willing and enables them to be successful, significant followers. How can we refuse such an invitation? Will you leave behind what you think is important and make Jesus your priority?

Day 6

PRAY Psalm 119:21-25

Matthew 4:1-11 - How to handle temptation. The three temptations Jesus faced were: to take control of meeting His own needs (disobedience); not to take God at His Word (mistrust); seeking power (pride). We still face these three temptations today. Your love for Jesus will help you stand in the face of all temptation.

Day 7

PRAY Psalm 119:26-30

Mark 9 - A day in the life of Jesus. If you want to follow Jesus, you need to understand how He lived. This chapter gives you insight into a day in His life. Experience Jesus interacting with God His Father and with people. Follow closely in His steps and practise what you have learned.

Day 8

PRAY Psalm 119:31-35

Matthew 5:1-14 - Jesus’ key to happiness. The lifestyle that Jesus outlines is different to the way people live today, but it is the key to real happiness. This lifestyle will bring you the happiness that God intended you to enjoy from the beginning – a true, genuine happiness that lasts forever.

Day 9

PRAY Psalm 119:36-40

Matthew 6:25-34 - Do not worry. Worry is like a treadmill. It keeps you busy, but it doesn’t accomplish anything or get you anywhere. Trusting in God allows you to enjoy life to the full, because you know your heavenly Father cares for you.

PRAY Psalm 119:41-45 60 soccer 20131218.indd 60

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Day 10

Luke 11:1-13 - Lord, teach me to pray. When Jesus’ disciples asked Him to teach them to pray - this is the prayer He taught them. You will find in it everything you need to know about prayer. Pray it - and live it. A faith-filled prayer is a powerful prayer.

Day 11

PRAY Psalm 119:46-50

Luke 10:25-37 - Jesus tells a story about loving others. James Finley says, the question you must ask every day is not, ‘Who is my neighbour?’ but ‘Who can I be a neighbour to?’ In loving others, I love Jesus in them. And they meet Him in me through the love I give them.

Day 12

PRAY Psalm 119:51-55

Luke 15:11-32 - Jesus’ story about the love of Father God. We can all relate to this story because at some point we all need a second chance. God’s grace will always be there for us, welcoming us back. The question is, am I prepared to offer other people a second chance, or am I like the older brother?

Day 13

PRAY Psalm 119:56-60

John 2:1-11 - Jesus’ first miracle teaches us: Enjoy life! Jesus did not perform His first miracle at a funeral, but at a wedding. This miracle shows us how Jesus feels about life - He enjoys it. There is enjoyment of life, transformation and abundance in His presence.

Day 14

PRAY Psalm 119:61-65

John 3:1-21 - Jesus explains new life. ‘To be born again’, means to have new life, to be an OUT-standing person. Jesus stands OUT in our life so that other people see the reality of John 3:16 being lived out in the life of another human being.

PRAY Psalm 119:66-70 61 soccer 20131218.indd 61

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Day 15

John 6:1-15 - Our little becomes much in God’s hand. Allow the facts of this story to sink in: two fish and five loaves feed a crowd of people, and there are twelve baskets of leftovers. The twelve baskets were most probably given to the poor. God uses whatever I give Him.

Day 16

PRAY Psalm 119:71-75 John 8:1-11 - Don’t judge. We understand this story correctly when we realise that we are all sinners. When we understand grace, we drop the stones in our hands and stop judging others. We are wrong if we think that John 8 means we have a free pass to sin. No, we have a new life to live.

Day 17

PRAY Psalm 119:76-80 John 14:1-14 - Jesus’ final commands. Jesus gave His own funeral message. He tells us: 1. Do not be upset. Death happens, but it does not have the final say. 2. Trust Jesus and the Father on this. 3. Jesus has prepared a home with God for every one of His followers. Jesus really is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

Day 18

PRAY Psalm 119:81-85 John 15:1-16 - Jesus calls us friends. Jesus uses the image of a vine and a branch to explain His relationship with us. He is the vine and we are the branches. In order for us to grow, the Gardener, Father God, needs to prune us. But we can trust this process, because Jesus calls us His friends. He loves us. What a friend we have in Jesus!

Day 19

PRAY Psalm 119:86-90 Mark 4:35-41 - Jesus calms a storm. Jesus is mightier than any storm, they have no chance against Him. Eugene Peterson says in The Message j: ‘The wind ran out of breath; the sea became smooth as glass.’ When you go through storms and difficulties in your life, you can trust Jesus to take care of you.

Day 20

PRAY Psalm 119:91-95 Matthew 25:31-46 - Jesus tells us to care for others. Teresa of Ávila says: ‘Christ has no body on earth but yours, no hands but yours and no feet but yours. Yours are the eyes through which Christ’s compassion looks out upon the world. Yours are the feet with which He does good. He uses your hands to bless people now.’

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PRAY Psalm 119:96-100 2013/12/18 02:54:05 PM

Day 21

Matthew 21:4-11 - Jesus’ last Sunday. When Jesus rode into Jerusalem the crowds cheered and waved palm branches. They treated Jesus like a king, but a few days later instead of shouting, Hosanna they cried: Crucify Him! They realised that Jesus was not going to set up an earthly kingdom. His is a Heavenly Kingdom.

Day 22

PRAY Psalm 119:101-106 Matthew 21:12-13 - Jesus’ last Monday. Jesus was angry with the people who took advantage of Believers who came to the temple to worship God. He cleansed the temple because He was upset that His Father was being dishonoured. Let Jesus cleanse you. You are now His temple (1 Corinthians 3:16), a living temple who attracts people to Him.

Day 23

PRAY Psalm 119:107-113 John 12:24-26 - Jesus’ last Tuesday. Jesus teaches His followers to be ‘a grain of wheat’. You are a grain of wheat when you obey His commandments. John Wesley says: ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’

Day 24

PRAY Psalm 119:114-121 Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8 - Jesus’ last Wednesday. Jesus received an unforgettable gift. Mary, without thinking about it, poured her expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet. ‘Spoon’ people serve others. A ‘knife-and-fork’ person, like Judas, would not and could not understand such selfless love. Be a ‘spoon’ in a world of ‘knives and forks’.

Day 25

PRAY Psalm 119:122-130 Mark 14:66-72 - Jesus’ last Thursday. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet. This is just one way in which Jesus showed His love for people. This humble act proved that Jesus is a Friend we can turn to at any time, because we matter to Him. His love for us knows no end.

Day 26

PRAY Psalm 119:131-139 Mark 15:21, 25, 33-34, 37 - Jesus’ darkest Friday, our Good Friday. The six hours on Golgotha was Jesus’ darkest day, but it is now our brightest day. Jesus did not have to die. He chose to do so because He loves us. If you ever doubt that Jesus loves you, think about Golgotha. It was real, just like His love for you.

PRAY Psalm 119:140-148 63

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Day 27

Matthew 28:1-6 - The Sunday that changed the world! The message of the angel is crystal clear: We do not have to be afraid of death. Jesus still lives and moves among His people. We must always live with the resurrection fresh in our minds because it will give us a positive perspective on life – God’s perspective.

Day 28

PRAY Psalm 119:149-156 Luke 24:13-35 - Jesus warms our hearts. On the way to Emmaus, two of Jesus’ followers were talking about hope, but they agreed that it was dead. Then Jesus joined them and their hearts started to burn with hope. This story teaches us that life is a journey. What will happen next on this journey? We do not know, but we do know that Jesus is with us.

Day 29

PRAY Psalm 119:157-164

John 21:1-19 - The soft, kind eyes of Jesus. Jesus asked Peter three times whether he loved Him (verses 15-17), the same number of times Peter denied Him. Jesus gave Peter a chance to declare his love for Him and to cancel his denials. This is grace! This is how Jesus sees us - with soft, kind eyes.

Day 30

PRAY Psalm 119:165-170

Acts 1:1-11 - Jesus’ last words and His ascension: He is in charge! Jesus’ followers received the Holy Spirit. The cloud that carried Jesus away was the same cloud that symbolised God’s presence in the Old Testament. The Father came to take His Son to be with Him in heaven. Jesus now rules the world as the King of the universe.

PRAY Psalm 119:171-176 As a follower of Jesus, treasure the words found in John 1:12 – Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. But whoever did want him, who believed [Jesus] was who he claimed and would do what he said, he made to be their true selves, their child-of-God selves. (The Message) j Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE. Copyright (c) 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group.

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