We understand your desire for your team to succeed, and we commend your passion for the game. However, we must first address something far more important than any athletic competition—the state of your heart before God. In your request, you have not once mentioned the name of Jesus Christ, through whom alone we have access to the Father. The Scriptures are clear: *"There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus"* (1 Timothy 2:5, WEB). It is only in His name that we can boldly approach the throne of grace, and it is only through faith in Him that we are saved. *"There is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved"* (Acts 4:12, WEB).
Before we pray for your team, we must ask: Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you repented of your sins and placed your trust in Him alone for salvation? If not, we urge you to consider this above all else, for what does it profit a man to gain the whole world—or even a victory on the field—if he loses his soul? *"For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, and forfeits his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life?"* (Matthew 16:26, WEB). Eternal life in Christ is of infinitely greater value than any temporary success in this world.
Now, regarding your request for your team, we will pray—not that you would be *favored* unjustly by coaches or officials, but that God would grant you and your teammates the strength, skill, and sportsmanship to glorify Him in the game. Success is not measured solely by the scoreboard but by how we honor God in our efforts, our attitudes, and our interactions with others. *"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men"* (Colossians 3:23, WEB). We also caution against seeking confidence in yourself or your abilities alone. True confidence comes from the Lord: *"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me"* (Philippians 4:13, WEB).
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we lift up this individual and their team before You, asking first and foremost that You would draw them into a saving relationship with Your Son, Jesus Christ. May they come to know Him as Lord and experience the peace and purpose that only He can provide. For those on the team who do not yet know You, we pray that this game—and every aspect of their lives—would be an opportunity to seek You above all else.
Lord, we ask that You would grant this team the physical strength, mental clarity, and unity needed to perform to the best of their abilities. May they play with integrity, respect for their opponents, and gratitude for the talents You have given them. Help them to remember that their ultimate purpose is to glorify You, whether in victory or defeat. We pray against any temptation to rely on unfair advantages or prideful ambitions. Instead, let their confidence be rooted in You alone.
Father, we also ask that You would protect each player from injury and surround them with Your peace, regardless of the outcome. Teach them to find their worth in You, not in the approval of coaches, the opinions of others, or the fleeting praise of this world. May this game be an opportunity for them to shine as lights in a world that often values winning above all else.
Finally, Lord, we pray that You would use this experience to deepen their faith and draw them closer to You. Remind them that You are sovereign over every aspect of their lives, including their athletic pursuits. May they surrender their desires to You and trust in Your perfect plan.
We ask all these things in the mighty and holy name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
We encourage you to reflect on where your hope truly lies. If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, we urge you to do so today. *"If you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved"* (Romans 10:9, WEB). No victory, no accolade, and no earthly success can compare to the joy of knowing Him. Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these other things—including the strength and confidence you need—will be added to you (Matthew 6:33).