Losing...

From a young age, I have had a tremendous disgust with losing. Although I have had my share of losing, and have learned from much of it, I still hate to lose. I have had to allow God to taper me in this arena, and He still is, because even a family board game can become very competitive! Last night, I was watching my favorite football team play. As the other team kicked a game winning field goal as time expired, I felt a disgust enter my mind and I just started shaking my head and analyzing all the mistakes that were made during the game. Interceptions, fumbles, dropped passes, and sloppy play allowed a team that is not quite as good to win the game. I must admit, that as thrilled as I am when I win, I am equally disgusted when I lose.

This causes me to wonder, does God feel the same way?

Can you imagine the joy that floods God's heart when we, His children, obey His commands and His Holy Spirit works through us to accomplish something as amazing as leading someone to become His disciple? What about the joy that makes Him stand up off of His throne with rejoicing when someone is set free from their bondage and falls in love with Him?

Could you also imagine the agony and disgust that floods His mind when we, His chosen people, “fumble" the power and victory He so brutally purchased for us because we chose to do what we want instead of what He wants?

Yes, in this life football is just a game and there aren't really any repercussions to losing except a little damage to our pride. But, what is at stake if we "lose" in this battle we call life? I believe in God's Kingdom there is no room for sloppy play and half-hearted effort because it just might cost us more than the superbowl.

I encourage you with Paul's words in 1 Cor. 9:24... "Do you know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it!

I pray we can run and win this for our Savior...