Poor Behavior Speaks Loudly - Jewell Utt

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 (ESV) 

            I sat in the arena listening to a coach instruct parents on good sportsmanship. It saddened me to think this is a necessary talk, but I knew it was essential.

Sports are competitive, instructional, and should be fun. Athletes understand the dynamics. Even when they have a coach who rides them hard, they accept it as training. On the flip side, parents who become enraged during a game, yelling at players, coaches and referees alike, show a lack of wisdom. They draw attention away from the game to their poor behavior. Many times this is what rests in the minds of their child and other participants.

I recall a time when  unruly parents caused the administration to take action. They discussed banning them from all games and practices. I thought it was a good idea, in light of the alternative. Their behavior embarrassed the players and cast a poor reflection on the school and community. As an alternative, the coach’s talk served as the discipline. If not heeded, further action would be taken.

When bad behavior is present, concerns should be voiced and discipline administered. The same concepts apply in the Christian community. We need to check our behavior against the person of Christ. How did He react in hot situations? He got angry. He wept. He admonished. He prayed. He loved. He used wisdom according to whom He was and who He was representing. We are called to do the same. To respond in ways appropriate to each situation. Not to shrink back or plow ahead, but to be sharp.

Iron Sharpens Iron. Discipline is a necessary part of the sanctification process of a Holy God. Do not despise it. Do not neglect to use it. Do not forget who you represent.