God's Coaching #285

God's Coaching #285

Josh Hamilton never knew being sprayed with soda pop would be this much fun. The Texas Rangers outfielder missed celebrating with teammates after the Rangers qualified for the 2010 play-offs. But the team leader was right in the middle of the celebration after Texas ousted Tampa Bay in the American League Division Series.

Josh, who had battled alcohol addiction, chose to stay away from the Rangers’ first celebration because he figured the team would be spraying each other with champagne—which is a sports tradition. Josh didn’t want to be around alcohol of any kind because it brought back too many bad memories. Alcohol and drugs had nearly ruined Josh’s baseball career and marriage. But after Texas defeated Tampa Bay 5–1 in game five, teammates grabbed Josh and told him to put on some goggles. He was led into the clubhouse where teammates shouted, “Ginger ale!” and sprayed soda all over him.

What’s the Score?

The Texas Rangers advanced all the way to the 2010 World Series because they were a close-knit group. By not bringing champagne into their celebration, Josh’s teammates showed they respected him as a player and a person. Josh was open about his faith in Jesus Christ and his desire to live a clean life without alcohol or drugs. Josh honored God all the way through his amazing 2010 season. He hit 32 home runs, batted .359, and was named the American League Most Valuable Player.

By using ginger ale in their celebration, the Rangers lived out the Bible verse that says to “live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall” (Romans 14:13). Do you have a friend who struggles in a certain area of life? Maybe you have a buddy who’s addicted to video games and tries to stay away from them. If you play video games around this person, you might cause him to stumble because the temptation is too great. As you live your life, be aware of your friends’ weaknesses, and act in a way that builds them up—instead of causing them to fall.

On the Ball

God wants us to be a help, not a hindrance, to our friends. Are there any behaviors you need to change to help your friends live a life more dedicated to Christ?

Coach’s Comment

Each of us will give a personal account to God. So let’s stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall. Romans 14:12-13