“For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.” — Titus 1:7-8 (ESV)
As a youth soccer coach, one of the biggest challenges I had each season was selecting the captain(s) of my team. I struggled with which method was better: having the players vote, me choosing or a hybrid of the two.
As a player, I had experience with each, and they all had some pros and cons. But over time, I discerned that it wasn’t so much the method of selection, but the qualifications of selection that were critical.
Whether I chose, the players voted or both, it was necessary that I defined the qualities and attributes that are necessary for good/great leaders; I never thought the Bible would provide the benchmark for leadership qualities for sports, but it did. As I delved into 1 Timothy and Titus, it was clear that Paul laid out 20 characteristics that are essential for all leaders, no matter what the venue is.
No one quality is more important, and they are all essential. Take some time and review 1 Timothy 3:1-5 and Titus 1:7-8. Assess each of these characteristics in your own life; review your strengths and weaknesses, and see where you can improve. Godly leadership starts right here.
— Ryan DiNunzio
OneCoach, part of the Sports Spectrum Network, is an international community of coaches and spouses who have been uniquely gifted and called by God. Visit OneCoach.org for more stories and videos.
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