Day 24 — In Jesus’ Name

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

— Colossians 3:17 (BSB)

What would it look like to play a basketball game “in the name of the Lord Jesus”?

It doesn’t mean shouting “Jesus!” every time you shoot. It means playing the way Jesus would want you to play, representing Him in everything you do.

Paul says, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Whatever you do! Not just church stuff. Sports, games, school, chores, everything.

To do something “in someone’s name” means you’re representing them. It’s like wearing your team’s jersey. When you wear it, everything you do reflects on the team. If you play dirty, people think badly of your team. If you play with character, people respect your team.

When you belong to Jesus, you’re wearing His jersey everywhere you go, including on the field and in the game.

So what does it look like to compete in Jesus’ name?

• Giving your full effort, because your abilities are a gift from Him.
• Playing fair, even when the ref isn’t looking.
• Controlling your temper when things don’t go your way.
• Being a good sport, whether you win or lose.
• Encouraging teammates, especially the weaker players.
• Respecting coaches and refs, even when you disagree.
• Giving thanks, because every game is a gift.

Notice the last part of the verse: “giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Whether you win or lose, you can thank God for your body, your teammates, your coach and the chance to play.

This week, you’ve learned to run to win, train for godliness, avoid gloating, press on after losing and let others do the praising. All of it comes down to this: whatever you do, do it for Jesus.

A true story: David Livingstone grew up poor in Scotland and went to work in a cotton mill when he was only ten. He propped a book open on the spinning machine and read while he worked, until he had taught himself enough to become a doctor. Then he went to Africa and walked thousands of miles across it, farther than almost any traveler before him, telling people about Jesus. Everywhere he went, he saw slave traders stealing people from their homes, and he spent his life working to end the slave trade. He was often sick and alone, but he kept going. When he died, his African friends carried his body more than a thousand miles to the coast out of love for him. He ran his race to the very end. You can read his whole story in Brave for God.

Think about it: If people watched you play a sport or a game, would they be able to tell you belong to Jesus?

Try this: Before your next game or practice, pray, “Jesus, I’m playing in Your name today.” Then play like it.

Dear Jesus, whatever I do, I want to do it in Your name. Help me represent You well, in sports, games, school and everything else. Help me play with character, and help me give thanks win or lose. In Your name, Amen.