An Athlete's Prayer (2024)

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Dear God,

Today is game day and I place myself in your loving hands. Help me to be a good sport. I pray that I do not seek individual glory or accolades, but rather that I play for your glory and for the good of my team. I pray that all who play this game today are protected from physical harm.

And, my Lord, help me to accept the bad breaks as part of the game. I pray that I play to the best of my ability and to give honor to you by accepting my position and my place in the lineup.

Loving God, I pray for those who watch from the stands that they, too, give glory to you by accepting, without prejudice, the rules and decisions of the game today. May their hearts be filled with joy and gladness that you have given them the ultimate gifts they watch this day: the players.

Dear God, I pray for the coaches and referees that they too experience your loving guidance in the decisions they make today. For those who work behind the scenes to make this day enjoyable and for the founders and supporters of (Insert School/ League name).

Finally, I pray to you, Loving God, that you enjoy this game today and bestow on each of us wisdom and acceptance—no matter the outcome of the final score. With you in our hearts, we are all winners.

Amen.

Linda Fleshman, Parent Fort Worth Christian Football League Forth Worth, TX

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As an avid sports enthusiast with a deep understanding of the psychological and spiritual aspects of athletic performance, I can assure you that the athlete's prayer before a game encapsulates a range of concepts that contribute to a player's mindset and approach to sportsmanship. The prayer reflects not only a personal connection with the divine but also a broader understanding of the dynamics involved in sports, teamwork, and the challenges athletes face.

Let's break down the key concepts embedded in the athlete's prayer:

1. Acknowledgment of a Higher Power:

   • The prayer begins by addressing a higher power, in this case, God, showcasing a belief in something beyond oneself. This sets the stage for a humble and grateful mindset, emphasizing the spiritual aspect of sports.

2. Sportsmanship and Team Focus:

   • The prayer emphasizes the desire to be a good sport and play not for individual glory but for the glory of a higher purpose and the good of the team. This reflects a deep understanding of the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the collective goal of the team.

3. Acceptance of Challenges:

   • There is a plea for strength to accept the challenges and bad breaks that may come during the game. This reflects resilience and the understanding that setbacks are an inherent part of any competition.

4. Honoring One's Role:

   • The prayer expresses a wish to honor God by accepting one's position and place in the lineup. This concept goes beyond personal achievements and highlights the importance of humility and acceptance of one's role within the team.

5. Inclusion and Respect for Others:

   • The prayer extends beyond the individual athlete to include spectators, coaches, referees, and those working behind the scenes. There's a call for everyone involved to accept the rules and decisions without prejudice, fostering an environment of respect and appreciation for the various roles in sports.

6. Gratitude and Joy:

   • There's a focus on gratitude and joy for the ultimate gift of the players. This reflects an understanding of the privilege of participating in sports and the joy it brings to both players and spectators.

7. Guidance for Decision-Makers:

   • The prayer includes a plea for coaches and referees to experience loving guidance in their decisions. This recognizes the challenges faced by those in authority and the importance of fairness in the game.

8. Wisdom and Acceptance:

   • The prayer concludes with a request for wisdom and acceptance, regardless of the final outcome. This reflects a mature understanding that the true essence of the game goes beyond winning or losing.

In conclusion, the athlete's prayer before a game is a powerful expression of the holistic nature of sports, combining elements of spirituality, sportsmanship, humility, and gratitude. It reflects a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all those involved in the sporting experience.