Fri 19 Sep, 2008
This is a great, easy to read book that is accessible by athletes or sports fans of any age. It’s filled with personal stories and practical application of biblical principles related to athletics in general. It’s not a book about the requirements and benefits of good sportsmanship, although those topics are addressed. Rather, it’s a book about joy, celebration and glorifying God whether you’re a first round draft pick or the arm chair quarterback. It’s aimed at those who take their sports seriously in one aspect and not so seriously in another. In it, Stephen Altrogge speaks to star athletes, weekend athletes, armchair athletes, parents of athletes, idolizers of athletes, coaches and officials. If you’re into sports, you’re in here!
Knowing Stephen and type of man he is, this book is true to heart. He is a very humble and godly guy. I didn’t need to even read it to know what he was going to say. However, what impressed me the most was not what was said, but how it was said. In a special way, Stephen cuts to the heart of issues with sports that we tend to overlook or justify as “just being part of the game”. Sports are a window into our heart and they can clearly demonstrate our sinful nature even in our recreational pursuits. The book is an eye-opening look at one’s heart and motivations; a sort of John Owen for the sports nut.
My favorite chapter is the one on Winners and Losers. Whether your sport is on the field, court, course, the kitchen table or in the stands, the book brings to light the temptations we all face along with practical ways to rightly address the sinful nature that causes these motivations and behaviors.
Stephen also reminds us that one day we will give an account for our lives before the judgement seat of Jesus. This not only includes our vocational and spiritual pursuits but also includes the time we spend playing or watching sports. While this is a humbling fact, the ultimate conclusion is not that sports are, by nature, wrong or to be avoided. The book’s view is one that’s full of joy, hope and grace knowing that God has a purpose for the lives of His children which includes sports and recreation. Sports like all things we experience, are a gift from God. But as in all the things , we should be thankful, glorifying the giver; not ourselves. Sports and its associated behavior can be an evidence of grace and an avenue for the proclamation of the Gospel.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves games, sports or competition in any form. Pre-teens through adults can easily read and benefit from it. I think it’s especially valuable for the parents of athletes or wannabe athletes. There is practical advice on establishing godly priorities and experiencing the grace of God in both their children’s and their own personal pursuits. Parents can also distill the principles in it, helping translate the book for younger athletes. Get it here and read it before your next big game. You’ll have a whole new perspective on what it means to be an athlete, official or a fan.
