Please permit me one more sports blog – a valuable lesson on self-control. 

In the October 30 game between NFL’s Charlotte Panthers and Atlanta Falcons, the Falcons scored a touchdown with just over two minutes left and a field goal with just 36 seconds left to lead the Panthers by 6 points, 34 – 28. But the Panthers came right back and completed a stunning 62-yard touchdown pass to tie the game with only 12 seconds left. They were one (nearly) automatic extra point from winning the game. 

However, 12 seconds left means the game isn’t over. The receiver, #2 in the picture, ripped off his helmet in celebration. There’s a rule against that (which this veteran receiver would know), and the Panthers were penalized 15 yards, making the extra-point attempt 48 yards instead of 33 yards. The kicker missed. The Panthers lost in overtime.

An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. (2 Timothy 2.5, ESV)

Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9.25 – 27, ESV)