You Need a Coach

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." — 2 Timothy 3:16-17 

Do you think the Christian life should just come naturally?

My first year in seminary, I decided to learn golf. I found a set of clubs, a golf bag, and shoes that were half a size too small at a pawn shop—all for $40. I was excited. I called a friend who was a Dallas detective and a pretty good golfer. We met at Tennison West Golf Course where Lee Trevino started his career.

This was my first time ever on a tee box. I took my first swing and hooked the ball. I immediately hit a Cadillac in the street. My friend said, "Curt, maybe we need to just go to the next hole very quickly." Then I began playing army golf—left, right, left, right.

It was frustrating. I thought this should be easy. You just swing and hit the ball. Many times I missed completely and realized I had no idea what I was doing. I needed help. I wasn't ready to be on the course. I needed lessons. There's more to golf than just swinging the club.

When it comes to our spiritual walk, we need help too.

We think because we grew up in church or have Christian friends that living the Christian life should flow easily. But it doesn't work that way. You cannot just open the Bible and fully understand it all at once. You need coaching. You need teaching. You need someone to show you how to handle the Word of God.

Many students abandon their faith once they leave home because they don't know what they believe. They have church background but no biblical foundation. They're on the course without ever having taken lessons.

It is critical that we know what we believe and why we believe it. Don't take it for granted. Don't assume it will just come naturally. Get into God's Word. Find a solid church. Ask questions. Get coached.

My job as your pastor is to equip you to do the work of ministry. Part of that is teaching you what God's Word says. But you have to show up ready to learn.

You need a coach. Let God's Word train you for the life He's called you to live.