What’s more important? A win – or your commitment to your team?

Our youngest was very excited to win his baseball game last night on 8th grade night. They haven’t racked up many wins, so this one meant a lot.

He’s also been talking about “retiring” from baseball after this season (not playing on into high school). But the team has one more final game this Wednesday.

After the win tonight, I was taking him out for a treat and he said that he thought he’d like to go out on a win, and doesn’t want to go to the game on Wednesday since they’ll probably lose.

That led to a good conversation.

The simple version went something like this:

Son: I don’t think I’ll go to the game on Wednesday.

Me: Why not?

Son: It’ll be nice to go out with a win after tonight.

Me: But your team is counting on you for Wednesday.

Son: Yeah, but we’re most likely not going to win that game. I’d rather go out on top.

Me: What’s more important? Going out on top? Or following through on your commitment to your team?

(Silence…)

On one hand, it doesn’t matter, because the way we parent, we’re going to take him to the game on Wednesday anyway. He doesn’t really have a choice now, since he committed to his team already.

But on the other hand, I hope that he’s really considering out conversation and the point I was trying to make.

Life is full of a lot of ups, downs, twists, turns, and “exit ramp” moments.

But living up to our commitments is important throughout.

It’s part of living with integrity.

Following through on commitments to your team shows up through Scripture in verses that emphasize integrity, faithfulness, and working in unity.

The Scriptures underscore that all work should be done with a sincere heart, as if serving God, which strengthens dependability and builds trust within a group. 

Integrity and keeping your word

Psalms 15:1-5

“LORD, who may abide in your tent?
Who may dwell on your holy mountain?

Whoever walks without blame,
doing what is right,
speaking truth from the heart;

Who does not slander with his tongue,
does no harm to a friend,
never defames a neighbor;

Who disdains the wicked,
but honors those who fear the LORD;
Who keeps an oath despite the cost,
lends no money at interest,
accepts no bribe against the innocent.

Numbers 30:3

“When a man makes a vow to the LORD or binds himself under oath to a pledge, he shall not violate his word, but must fulfill exactly the promise he has uttered.”

Matthew 5:37

“Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.”

Proverbs 10:9

“Whoever walks honestly walks securely,
but one whose ways are crooked will fare badly.”

Unity and teamwork

Scripture teaches that working together in unity and mutual support is more effective than working alone.

The Bible uses the metaphor of the Church as a body to emphasize that team members are interdependent and should have equal concern for each other.

Verses encourage a selfless attitude, valuing others and their interests above your own. 

Faithfulness and diligence

The Bible also encourages working with all your heart, as though serving God, for a higher purpose.

It teaches that being steadfast and diligent in your work for the Lord is not in vain.

It also highlights that faithfulness in small matters demonstrates true reliability and character. 

Living Your Commitments

Stepping up to the plate for the final game of the season, despite the temptation to bask in the glory of a second-to-last game victory, embodies the true spirit of commitment to your team.

It’s not just about chasing wins; it’s about honoring the bond with your teammates, coaches, and the game itself.

Showing up for that last game, regardless of the outcome, demonstrates resilience and loyalty – qualities that define a team player. You’re not just playing for the scoreboard but for the shared journey, the grit, and the memories forged on the diamond.

Finishing the season strong, with your head held high, sets a powerful example and leaves a legacy of dedication for your team.

And not just in baseball, but in life.