The last couple of weeks have been filled with criticism and discussion about the behavior of two young stars in the sports world – New York Giants’ Odell Beckham Jr. and Duke’s Grayson Allen.

Beckham Jr. was seen taking pictures on a party boat in Miami the week before their playoff game and then ended up playing poorly against the Packers.

Allen has been in trouble for his tripping incidents in multiple games and is in the spotlight each time he steps on the floor. This week he’s being questioned for his physical contact with an assistant coach on Florida State’s bench.

Both players are talented and fun to watch, but their emotions and decision-making put them in difficult spots. Allen is 21 and Beckham Jr. is 24, so they are young and in many ways immature.

Their choices have resulted in negativity not only drawn on them but also their teammates. I’ve personally gotten tired of the hatred and attacks from the fans and media, but at the same time, I see that both players need to grow in maturity and wisdom.

If both of them want to be the type of players that others respect and cheer for, they must recognize the changes that need to take place. They are letting unnecessary things get in the way of their extraordinary potential as athletes.

Wisdom is extremely valuable and available to those who desire to have it. It’s something that allows us to make the right decisions and avoid painful mistakes. We must all choose to leave immaturity behind to seek wisdom in our lives.

As followers of Jesus, we should desire to make wise choices each day of our lives, according to God’s will. Thankfully the Bible says in James 1:5 (NLT), “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”

If we want to be all that God calls us to be, we must rely on the wisdom that comes from Him and the wise people He’s placed in our lives. In humility, we can pursue an honoring life filled with wisdom.

Today, let’s cling to what James 3:13 tells us: “If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.”  I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I desire to live a life filled with wisdom and humility. I’m thankful that You give wisdom to those who ask, so please provide me the ability to make wise decisions. I pray I would seek You and Your Word as the source of wisdom. Thank you for your generosity and love. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.