Three strikes and you're out--that much I know--and not much more! I DO have a "claim to fame" in the sports world, though--a bit of family history! My dad, a proud New Yorker, as a little boy, got to shake hands and speak to Babe Ruth...neat, huh! Of course, we just wish he'd also picked up an autograph! In any event, my knowledge of baseball, while limited, leads me to a baseball devotional.
Grown men--and ladies--are glued to their TVs this week--it's a great USA tradition! Everyone's going "out" to the ball game, in one way or another--even President Clinton, from the latest news! BUT you'll have to admit: a famous foot-long New York hot dog out at the stadium beats making dinner at home any day! Right, ladies?!
Speaking of "right," ever felt like you were "out in left field" somedays...totally disconnected from the love, joy and peace of the Lord? Wiped out physically, emotionally, spiritually, or mentally? Or all four at once? Now that's frustration far greater than any OUT on the ball field...but there's hope! There's a heavenly umpire watching, working, waiting and He's going to help you win the game!
You see, God sees life from a heavenly perspective. He watches you "work out your salvation with fear and trembling" and He's not going to let you down ('excuse me--that's a football term!!) He knows the "in's and out's" of life far better than we ourselves can comprehend--and He loves us. He waits to be gracious unto us. He guides and guards us (there goes a basketball term!).
Just remember, no matter how many times you've struck out--or missed catching the ball, He's there to walk with you all the way home, and to help you bring others along! Believe it! Hit a home run for heaven today--enjoy the baseball links below--and have a wonderful day!
Delight in a Word from the Well--a refreshing in the Water of His Word
"The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them OUT of all their troubles (Psalm 34:17)."
Draw from the Well--a prayer for renewing strength for this day
"Lord, there are times when I am just "out of it" - I am so glad that "You Know Me Completely" and You are there to help me through the rough spots of life. When my own moods and my own self "mess up" and would almost put me OUT of the game, Lord, help me. Thank You for Your strength--and the promise You give that by Your grace, I will win, In Jesus' Name, Amen."
All Scriptures are taken from the King James Version of the Holy Bible.
Copyright 2000 by Peggie Bohanon, Springfield, MO. All rights reserved.
Not to be copied without permission.
With thanks to Songs of Praise for the beautiful music playing on this page. Visit Songs of Praise for other beautiful tunes by many talented artists (CDs are available).
