Be Loving

The Golden Rule...

Soccer Theme 
Possession Play 

Key words / Phrase
Remember the Golden Rule 

Teachable Moment
Prior to the training session, instruct players that the golden rule of possession play is this:  “Do not give the ball away cheaply”

Coach’s Session Summary
The golden rule of the training session was not to give the ball away cheaply.  What does this mean?  Answer:  Make the opposition work hard to regain the ball once our team is in possession

Why is it important to maintain possession of the ball?  Answers:  We cannot score without the ball!  It’s no fun chasing the opposition when they have the ball; it’s frustrating to play in a team which constantly turns over possession

What may cause a team to give the ball away cheaply?  Answers:  A poor first touch; being caught in possession (playing with your head down); inaccurate passing (direction, weight, height); poor support from teammates; carelessness or lack of concentration; anticipation from an opponent      

Application

Just as there’s a golden rule for possession play, so we can find one in life.  Jesus Christ states in Matthew 7:12 “Do to others what you would have them do to you.”  There’s a major difference however, between the command of Jesus and the golden rule in soccer:

1. Soccer’s golden rule is stated negatively…“do not” give the ball away” (avoidance)     
2. Jesus’ golden rule is stated positively…“do to others…” (take action)  

The Christian is to take the initiative in reaching out to others to meet their needs.  He is to be proactive in doing something good for them as opposed to avoiding an act that we would not want done to us.  This is a major distinction, and one that clearly demonstrates the Christian’s love for others. 

Challenge

Seek ways to minister to others.  Think of those times when you’ve been in need of help and encouragement and

have benefited from the words or acts of support from another.  As an act of gratitude, reach out to those around you to be the salt and light of the world!

Further Study