Games and sports aren’t real life, but they often give a pretty accurate picture of how we can choose to face life.

 

Some people love Tom Brady, some don’t. What we have to admit though is that the guy is at his best when the pressure is the most intense.

 

Imagine that your profession is on a national stage. You have the ball with less than two minutes to go, and your team is behind. Standing behind center and looking out at the defense, how many of us could even think? Then, imagine throwing the ball with any kind of accuracy, knowing you have to win the game.

 

Most of us would be scared to death!

 

Psalm 23:4 tells us, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”

 

When we believe in something greater than ourselves—whether a close-knit team or better yet, the God of the universe—fear tends to leave. Just leave. Get away from me!

 

If you are feeling terrible pressure right now and don’t know what to do, stop what you’re doing and get by yourself. Pray to the Lord that He will help you and show you the way.

 

That’s the true path to victory, and the best way to assure the win.

 

Let’s pray.

 

Lord, we can’t do it by ourselves. We need your Spirit in us and your strength every second of every day. Thank you for never leaving us. Amen.