Commitment. It’s the essence of a solid marriage, the core of our relationship with God, and the reason we love our kids even when they drive us crazy. Pick a favorite sport and team and stick with ’em no matter which way the wind blows. Faithfully show up and cheer, and mean what you scream! You and your crew will become the working definition of die-hard fans.

If you can’t afford the fees involved with a professional sporting activity, get behind your church or work league. Pick an underdog bowling team. Doesn’t matter. Just find a group of players and support them with your time and attention. Have your children jot down the names of the team members. Meet them at breaks and offer the occasional pat on the back or “Attaboy!”

It’s always much more fun if everyone knows the rules of the sport you plan to follow. That doesn’t need to be a long process. Study them together and quiz each other on the particulars.

There’s a chance that your team will play so horribly that you’ll want to cringe. Buck up. They’re still yours. Stand and shout: “Let’s go, guys! You can do it!” Keep supporting them no matter how they’re performing.

Not only will your kids pick up a pointer or two about a favorite activity, they’ll see the importance of sticking with someone—not because the person is the best, the fastest, or the most beautiful—but simply because your kids said they would.

That’s like playing on God’s heavenly league. We don’t deserve a slot on the starting lineup, but He pulled a few strings. And win or lose, He’s always there cheering us on.