Stay in the Game

Football season is about to begin. Everyone is ready to support their favorite teams. Young ladies prepare to lead the cheers. Young men put on their equipment and learn new plays. There is still much work that needs to be done before the first down is played.

Each member of the team has to participate in the workout sessions. This prepares them for the hardships they will face during the upcoming season. The coach and his staff are responsible for the team's preparation. "Drills" are set up during every practice. The players may not always understand them but they know that the "drills" will make them better. Just like the players, there are things that we go through that we do not always understand. Proverbs 3: 5-6 reads: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." The Lord never puts more on you than you can bear. It is part of your training, meant for your good. Everyone must go through the process.

Players take pride in being a part of the team. They do what the coach says, when he says it. Sometimes the coach is not pleased with their performance and punishes them. He may demand laps, up-downs or push ups. No matter what, the players complete their tasks. This is done because they want the coach to know that they are a part of his team. Rarely does a player give up after one of these sessions. So why are Christians so quick to quit? Once you accept Christ, you are fighting on the Lord's side. You are in essence, a part of His team. It is not always going to be easy but you must hang in there. Sometimes we do things that are not pleasing to God and are chastised for it. You may encounter periods of disappointment and frustration but keep pressing. Just because a team is down at halftime, does not mean that they have lost the game. Your strength is being tested.

Players need to get into shape before entering into the game, so they workout everyday. They feel the "burn" after their workouts but, as a player, they do not give up. When shaping metal or glass, intense heat is used. After it is removed from the fire, it has a new shape, a new look. You will feel the "burn" but it is a necessary part of your strength training. It is a sign of change. God is preparing you for an increase. Do not quit, you must hang in there. Just like a player never quits on his team, the Lord never quits on you. Your life is not over, you are still here. Christians experience pain sometimes, but you must "play" through it. The only way that you can win, is to stay in the game.