The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever! – Psalm 111:10 (ESV)
I am absolutely ecstatic for the accomplishment of my husband and his golf team tonight! It’s been 17 years of coaching high school sports – from soccer to golf – and this year was the year. His teams had come so close in the past with numerous region championships, second place finishes, top fives and top tens. But this was the year – GHS Golf is #1!
As we were escorted through the crowds late this afternoon amidst all of the cheers, high-fives, fist pumps, and handshakes, I couldn’t help but think of the growth I’ve seen in my husband this last decade and a half, and the positive influence he has been on so many young boys and girls over the years. Of course I’m proud of the win, of the honor of being “state champs,” but what I’m most proud of and thankful for are the lives he has been able to touch and the ways God has blessed Alex’s desire to honor Him as he coached.
Yes, there have been moments of frustration and times when he wishes he could have a “do-over” because he didn’t react or say the right thing. But I’ve seen my husband (even when making a mistake) be that wise man of integrity, learn from his mistakes, and make it right. I’ve seen him encourage team members with acts of kindness, words of faith, and prayers to God. I’ve seen him give pep talks, host team dinners, and make sacrifices for his team. I’ve seen him have great influence over these young boys and girls with the way he loves his family, handles adversity, and shows good sportsmanship.
I’ve seen him learn how to lose and how to win, and today his big win although amazing, isn’t half as amazing to him as his relationship with the Lord. He has learned that, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding …” on and off the playing field. Alex has learned to practice the right things – wisdom, integrity, steadfastness, patience, godliness, and humility – and I couldn’t be more proud of the man of God he is!
Alex Heider … you are a true champion of the heart, an awesome father, and the most amazing husband in the world. Your family loves you!
May God’s praise endure forever!
4 Comments
His extended family loves him and is so proud of him too!! Way to go, Alex — in coaching golf and in life! 🙂
Thank you, Auntie Donna!
I agree that Alex is a “Champion” and I too appreciate his desire to be a godly influence in the lives of the young men on his team! He truly gets “The Big Picture” of what his role as The Coach is!
He will love that, Lane. I’ll tell him you said so! Thanks for reading.