The day started early and chilly. We were up before the sun. That morning during prayer, God had whispered my prayer for the day. Six young men were prepping to go to the golf course.  Their days had led up to this momentous day. State Finals.

My prayer as the team headed out to the course that morning was Psalm 20:3-5  (NIV)
“May He remember all your gifts…”
“May he grant your heart’s desires and make all your plans succeed.”
“May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers. “

The sun shone and the day was a balmy October respite from the typical weather of the season. An extra gift just because He can.

Sports can mold our children. It can give them an opportunity to display godly character to those around them.

As parents, we spend endless hours encouraging our children in their gifts, talents, and passions. We stand beside them and sometimes give them a nudge from behind. Train up a child in the way he should go, right? My job as mom, is to help fan that fire – encourage my children to use their gifts and talents to give glory to God. Does God care about golf? I don’t know, maybe. But what I do know, is that He cares about the heart of my child.

  Is he playing honestly?  With integrity?  Does he conduct himself with good sportsmanship? Is he humble? Will he have self control when he misses that putt? God is concerned about his character, not whether he is the next pro on tour. 

So as I walked the course that day, watching my son do what he loves to do, it was a reminder to keep encouraging my children in what they love to do. A reminder that they should be honing their gifts and talents for His glory. It was a blessing to witness God answer prayers, even if it’s as small as wanting to win a high school State golf tournament.

My heart was full. I was witnessing a dream come true for my child. All the hard work, perseverance, and dedication has paid off and he was living his dreams. He was there. At State. Playing hard. God delights in blessing us with our hearts desire, and it brings me JOY that God cares about a young man’s golf dream.

They didn’t come home with the State title, but they came in second. It was still a sweet victory. The banner was raised. Prayer was answered and encouragement to come back again with a renewed spirit was stronger than ever. 

 

Always encourage their dreams and help them keep their focus on Him in all they do.