A friend told me a few years ago that what a person will become in ten years is determined by the books he reads and the people he hangs out with today. Ever since that day I’ve been more aware of reading quality books that can shape my relationship with the Lord. I have recently been reading some books that deal with the use of screens and the impact that phone usage can have on our lives. One of those books is called, “The Tech-Wise Family” by Andy Crouch. In this book Andy mentions how as parents the most important thing we can do for our kids is to help them develop wisdom and courage.

I have brought this mentality and purpose into my team chapels this season with the men’s basketball team in order to teach the Biblical view of developing wisdom and courage. The seniors on the team decided early on in the season that every time they come together for a team huddle and put their hands in for a break, they would shout the word, “Warrior”. I decided to use that word as an acrostic and shared God’s Word and prayer on the following topics: W-will to win, A-attitude, R-responsibility, R-results, I-influence, O-opportunity, R-Resolve.

We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. Colossians 1:28

All of these topics are in the context of building men of character whose identity is not found in their performance, their possessions or in what other people say about them, but grounding their foundation on what the Bible says is true for all Christ-followers. We are totally forgiven, deeply loved and complete in Christ. This has helped to shape my identity and I hope that it is an encouragement to you as well.

P.S. I recommend another book I have been reading:  “12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You” by Tony Reinke.