Resentment or Envy over Someone's Success or Possessions
Golf: A Deception of Relaxation
Golf may appear to be the leisurely pursuit everyone dreams of, but don't be fooled. Any seasoned player will tell you, it's a grueling sport, especially during competition.
One of the legends of the green is BERNHARD LANGER, boasting over 50 victories worldwide. But his popularity extends beyond his golfing prowess, as he's also known for his religious devotion.
Before a game, Bernhard often gathers with his opponents for a Bible reading session. This practice was particularly evident during the Ryder Cup matches between the USA and Europe, where players from both teams would join together in holy study.
Bernhard once stated, "It's a beautiful thing when believers from different teams can come together to worship the same God." This sentiment emphasizes the importance of love and unity, even among rivals.
However, just as a golfer needs to watch for hidden pitfalls on the course, it's crucial to be aware of the dangers lurking in the human heart. Jealousy, for instance, can be a devastating trap. God deems jealousy as a "work of the flesh," a destructive and animalistic emotion.
Envy poisons relationships, leading to our own downfall and preventing us from truly loving others. Worse still, it manifests our self-love, selfishness, and pride.
Sadly, jealousy is not confined to sports scenes. It seeps into every aspect of life, causing strife within teams, and even tearing churches apart. It's a monster that thrives in the shadows, whispering, "Why him? Why not me?"
Even within the realm of religious service, jealousy rears its ugly head. Under the guise of criticism, it often masks the resentment towards another's influence, power, or spiritual accomplishments. How swiftly we can become vicious!
We all know glory doesn't belong to us, but still, we yearn for it. And yet, we continue to harbor jealousy.
The Bible warns that jealousy is as hard as a grave, capable of "killing" those consumed by it. A jealous person cannot see the good others do for him, becoming blind to the love surrounding him. Instead, he drowns in his own jealousy, a poison that ultimately strangles love, even love for God.
In the realm of sports, faith makes itself seen among the players. From Major League Baseball to the greens of golf, athletes like Bernhard Langer incorporate religious practices, making their beliefs an integral part of their lives and interactions with others.
Published in: Evangelical Focus - Approach the Hole - Jealousy
Enrichment Insights:- Religion plays a significant role in some athletes' lives, with activities like Bible reading or participation in Christian outreach programs being common.- Organizations like Ballers In God and The Jubilee of Sport exist to emphasize the role of faith in various sports, providing a platform for athletes to share their beliefs and experiences.- Athletes such as Frank Tanana and Christian MLB players leverage their platforms to promote religious messages and encourage others to follow their faith.
Sports betting can be a temptation for fans during intense golf tournaments, such as the majors or prestigious events like the Ryder Cup. However, it's essential to remember that faith and unity among players transcend the green, as seen in Bernhard Langer's religious practices and his Bible reading sessions with opponents.
