10 “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”
Romans 12:10 (ESV)
How do you know for sure if sports is an idol in your life? Here is a quick test: How do you react when your opponent plays poorly or gets injured? Of course, outwardly you would never show signs of happiness, but what goes on inside of you when your path toward victory has just been made easier at the expense of your opponent?
Romans 10:12 says that we as Christians are to love one another with brotherly affection, and outdo one another in showing honor.
How do we honor our opponents? The best way to do that is to give them your best and to hope you get their best in return. Two individuals (or teams) striving toward excellence in competition is a beautiful and God-glorifying sight.
The next time your opponent stumbles, do a quick heart check. If you feel excitement welling up inside, be quick to confess that to God and move forward in hope that your opponent can match your excellence.
