“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” — 1 Peter 2:12
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James Jones, president of basketball operations and general manager for the Phoenix Suns; Anthony Parker, GM for the Orlando Magic; Kevin Ollie, interim head coach for the Brooklyn Nets; Richard Jefferson, NBA studio analyst.
What do they have in common? They all regularly participated in the NBA chapel ministry during their playing days with the Cavs and beyond. These are men who were spiritually minded and emotionally grounded. They were highly driven, but unselfish; highly talented, but humble; tough, yet sensitive to others. Sounds like some of the qualities of Jesus.
Why does it matter? Because these men were not only significant contributors on the court, they were also what many refer to as “great locker room guys” or “glue guys.” They were more than basketball players; they were positive influencers. An influencer is a person who inspires or guides the actions of others. These men saw and helped everyone else see the bigger picture of life, especially during times of difficulty and great adversity. They led the way in doing the right thing for the right reason, no matter how difficult or complex the challenge.
You can’t hide under the spotlight. You are either going to be a positive or a negative influence on those who watch you. The Bible tells us this about being a positive influence: “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:12).
These men are difference makers because their genuine faith in the Lord allows them to look beyond themselves and see their lives from God’s perspective — as a ministry. What kind of difference maker are you?
— Jerry Birch, Cleveland Cavaliers chaplain
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