January 25

Character That Shines

Become blameless and pure, children of God without fault . . . Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky (Philippians 2:15).

Scripture: Philippians 2:12-18

Song: “Take Time to Be Holy”

Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden was nicknamed the “Wizard of Westwood,” and for good reason. His perfect balance of game analysis and disciplined coaching worked like magic on the basketball court. He set records that may never be broken. His career stats are remarkable. From 1948 to 1975, he had a winloss ratio of 885-203.

Pressed in an interview to be critical of former Indiana University coach Bobby Knight, he only said, “I think Bob Knight is an outstanding teacher of the game of basketball, but I don’t approve of his methods . . . and I’m not judging Bob Knight. There is so much bad in the best of us and so much good in the worst of us, it hardly behooves me to talk about the rest of us.” And with that bit of folksy wisdom, Wooden revealed what he loved most: Sportsmanlike conduct in all situations. Though bated by a reporter, he maintained his shining example.

What Wooden did for basketball, we should do for Christianity. We should champion high standards. Do you love what God loves? Like any good coach, our Lord loves a winner, but He loves good character even more. Making a name for yourself in ministry statistics is not the greatest achievement. When “children of God” becomes synonymous with “blameless and pure,” then you will shine “like stars in the sky.”

Dear Jesus, keep me from sacrificing my integrity on the altar of success! In Your name, amen.