Here are several Bible verses from the Catholic Bible that relate to fair competition, sportsmanship, youth sports, and related values:
- 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 (NABRE): “Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.”
- Philippians 2:3 (NABRE): “Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves.”
- Proverbs 11:2 (NABRE): “When pride comes, disgrace comes; but with the humble is wisdom.”
- 1 Timothy 4:8 (NABRE): “For bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”
- Colossians 3:23-24 (NABRE): “Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others, knowing that you will receive from the Lord the due payment of the inheritance; be slaves of the Lord Christ.”
- Ephesians 4:29 (NABRE): “No foul language should come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for needed edification, that it may impart grace to those who hear.”
- Romans 12:10 (NABRE): “Love one another with mutual affection; anticipate one another in showing honor.”
- Hebrews 12:1-2 (NABRE): “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith.”
- Matthew 20:26 (NABRE): “Whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant.”
- Galatians 6:2 (NABRE): “Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
If a team loses, here are a few Bible verses from the that can offer comfort and encouragement. They emphasize faith, resilience, and lessons that can be learned through challenges.
- Philippians 4:13 (NABRE): “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
This verse reminds the team that they have the strength to overcome challenges and setbacks through faith and perseverance.
- Isaiah 41:10 (NABRE): “Fear not, I am with you; be not dismayed; I am your God. I will strengthen you, and help you, and uphold you with my right hand of justice.”
This verse emphasizes that God is with them in both victory and defeat, providing strength and support.
- Romans 8:28 (NABRE): “We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
Even in defeat, this verse reminds the team that there can be valuable lessons and growth.
- James 1:12 (NABRE): “Blessed is the man who perseveres in temptation, for when he has been proved he will receive the crown of life that he promised to those who love him.”
Losing can be seen as a form of “temptation,” and this verse encourages perseverance and the promise of future rewards.
- 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NABRE): “We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”
This verse highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to endure difficulties.
- Psalm 34:18 (NABRE): “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.”
This verse offers comfort and reassurance that God is near, especially in times of disappointment.
These verses can provide inspiration and guidance for athletes, coaches, and anyone involved in youth sports to promote values like humility, teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship in the spirit of faith.