Some college athletes are seemingly driven to spend numerous extra hours on the court, on the field, and in the weight room. Are you that type of player? When friends are planning a group outing, are you the one who sits out in order to put up some extra shots in the gym or take some extra cuts at the batting cage? Are you the player who watches your diet and puts your sleep schedule above your social schedule, because you have learned through the years that healthy, well-rested athletes have more success?

We have all admired the players who earn the “hardest worker” awards, the ones who go the extra mile and motivate their teammates to do the same. While you can make a decision to be that type of player, there is much more to it than that. A decision must be made to make sacrifices. It is a decision to put others before yourself. It is a decision to put the team above the individual.

When you first see the weightlifting schedule the summer before your first college season of competitive sports, you may wonder when you will possibly enjoy the usual summer activities of going to the lake, swimming, and hanging out with friends. In order to maintain a schedule that includes training, a job, preparing for college, possibly summer school, getting a good night’s rest, and other responsibilities, it takes some definite prioritizing and planning.

In the midst of a hectic college schedule, choices of how to use your time efficiently must be made on a daily basis. It is not easy when you are answering to coaches, professors, and possibly a boss, if you hold down a job. However, wise choices can always be made, because we serve a God who says we can go to Him for wisdom in all things. James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” He will help you figure out how to keep a schedule that offers your best self to all of your commitments, your friends, your family, and most importantly, God.

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. (Proverbs 16:3)
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (Romans 12:1)

Dear Lord, You have blessed me with the ability and opportunity to play a college sport. It takes tremendous commitment, time, and effort. I cannot possibly do it on my own. I ask You for Your help, and I thank You for giving me the wisdom to prioritize my time. Thank You, Lord, for Your many blessings. In Your holy name I pray, Amen.