A Big Lesson From The Head Ball Coach

The Head Ball Coach

The college football world has been dominated with the recent and sudden resignation of University of South Carolina Head Football Coach Steve Spurrier. For years, he has been a proven winner on the field. He certainly carried an average USC football program to greater heights than ever on the field. Yet, I feel one of his greatest accomplishments was likely when he chose to step off the field.

Anyone who has ever watched this man knows he is a true competitor, fighter and loves to win. As a college football player he walked away with their most coveted honor the heisman trophy. As a college football coach he has posted nothing but winning records everywhere he has gone. Suddenly at the age of 70 he found himself sputtering. In fact, he had to admit to himself he was no longer the effective leader he once was. This year’s team reflected his struggle and his ineffectiveness.

Absolutely no one expected Spurrier to resign midway through the college season. But, he shocked the world when he said, “I’m Done. My run here is over and it’s time for me to move on.” Some called him a quitter and others may have felt he left on a losing note since his team was sitting at 2-4. But, I say he left a winner as he showed great leadership character.

You see, too many leaders today let their pride stand in the way of making right decisions. Too many leaders today let the postion they hold define who they are as a person. Spurrier knew his coaching spoke for itself. He knew staying in his position would just hinder the progress of the mission he fought so hard to build over the last decade. In the end, he determined it was best he got out of the way and let new leadership take things further.

I really believe most leaders today aren’t man enough to make such prompt decisions. Life is full of seasons, assignments and times when change is absolutely necessary. We all have to recognize when it’s our season to step up and when its time to step down.

Trust me, I know what it’s like to immediately walk away from something you’ve poured your heart into and step down as a leader because you realize you’re no longer the best man for the job. No amount of money, recognition, or comfort should dictate us otherwise. I have found there is no greater fulfillment than to be who God made you to be and where God has called you to be. We need to listen to his voice and be willing to move promptly when he says move.

As I write this, I fully believe there is someone needing to hear this message. You know in your heart if you’re just drawing a pay check and holding onto a position you need to release. You know in your heart if it’s time for you to move on, but you’ve not admitted it to yourself or others.

My friends, it’s worth getting over your pride and moving on. You’re moving on will give you greater peace as you make yourself available to whatever God has for you next. It will also allow the next right someone to step into your present position and take things forward. Don’t be afraid to obey God’s voice and make the right decisions promptly. Here are a couple verses you might take to heart.

(1 Timothy 3:1)”Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.”

(John 10:27)”My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”

(2 Timothy 1:7) “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”