Lesson Twelve: Their size is a big deal.

In Junior High sports, size plays a huge part in success. Many smaller players I have coached were depressed by their height because it limited their abilities. They are extremely self-conscience of their lagging growth. One player told his mom he wanted growth hormone shots. He told her he felt like a complete failure. I know players that are talented athletes. Their form and technique, their passion for and knowledge of the game out-shined many other players. Their hearts were huge. They worked extremely hard, but their size kept them from starting positions.

Students are trying to fit in. They are forming their identities. They want to be accepted and are trying to find success. Students who are early bloomers can stick out like Goliath in a kindergarten class. Late bloomers can look like Gary Coleman playing with the Lakers. Our society values bigger, stronger, taller young men. Tall, dark, and handsome is the measure of a desirable man.

Girls, too, can be troubled about their size. A girl can feel that she is too skinny or not slim enough. Her feet might be too big. Her nose may be to large. She doesn’t look like the magazine cover. News flash: nobody looks like that. It’s called airbrush magic. My sister has struggled with her image for many years starting in the awkward days of junior high.

Size is forefront to the thoughts of students as they strive to define themselves. Downplay the importance given to size and image. Highlight the size of the heart. Let students know that you are more excited about what can be accomplished with heart than size any day. Be sensitive to size issues but affirm big hearts!

Zach Skipper has spent over 12 years working with students. He has served as a youth minister, speaker, and bible study teacher. He is currently leading Bigtime Ministries while part-time coaching at one of the country’s leading Junior Highs in Birmingham, AL. To find out more about Zach’s ministry, contact him at www.bigtimeministries.com.