Competing as a Christian: Combining Faith and Athletics

05/08/2025 45 min

Listen "Competing as a Christian: Combining Faith and Athletics"

Episode Synopsis

In this podcast episode, Rev. Dr. and Navy Chaplain Dan Shaw introduces Tim Kuykendall, the author of the new book 'Competing Biblically: A Handbook for Coaches, Athletes, and Parents.' The discussion delves into how to integrate a Jesus-centered approach to sports, focusing on philosophies developed by influential coaches like Frosty Westering and Scotty Kessler. The conversation covers key concepts such as selflessness, unity, belief, submission, and the importance of blessing forgotten team members, opponents, officials, and teammates. Practical examples and personal anecdotes highlight the challenges and benefits of maintaining Christian principles in competitive sports, business, the military, and life. The episode concludes with an encouragement to adopt these practices for transformative impact in athletics and beyond.Purchase Tim's Book: https://a.co/d/7ZttVo200:00 Welcome to The Narthex00:36 Introducing Tim Kuykendall and His New Book00:55 The Concept of Competing Biblically01:31 Personal Experiences and Coaching Philosophy03:36 A Controversial Game Incident07:18 Developing a Jesus-Centered Sports Philosophy09:11 The Tree of Competing Biblically13:50 Blessing Through Sports18:49 Challenges in High-Level Sports22:53 Pushing the Limits: Coaching and God's Will23:27 Shifting Perspectives: Coaching for God's Glory24:32 Repentance and Coaching: A Heartfelt Approach25:31 Balancing Intensity and Compassion in Coaching27:27 The Power of Meekness: Strength Under Control29:01 Monsters with Table Manners: A Military Analogy30:46 Competing with a Higher Purpose33:58 The Role of Faith in Athletic Success40:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement#sports #god #bible