Engaging Our Culture: March 3-Laying Down the Foundation of Respect

Video of the Day: Clip from the 1986 film “Hoosiers”

Bible Verse of the Day:

Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us, Titus 2:6-8.

Biblical Connection:

The film Hoosiers is based on the true story of a small-town Indiana high school team that makes the state championship in 1954. Gene Hackman plays Coach Norman Dale, a former college coach with a checkered past. A friend from Indiana gives Coach Dale a second chance with a team that can barely field a starting lineup. Today’s scene is Coach Dale’s first practice which doesn’t start off on a good note. Yet, when you lay down a foundation for respect, the players who remain will listen.

Titus was a young believer who the apostle Paul disciplined, mentioned in Titus 1:4. As a former mentor of high school students while in college, I attended a weekly accountability group where many of these teenagers struggled with self-control. Meanwhile, as a coach, you must be able to professionally demonstrate the skills you want implemented upon a basketball court. Until respect is established, your players won’t listen or be teachable. Respect begins by setting a good example.

Closing Song:

As a former coach and teacher, sometimes you have to cut or dismiss students from your team or class. This sends the message that you’re not fooling around by laying the foundation for respect.

by Jay Mankus

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