Our Opponent will not Claim Victory

Indiana University suffered in basketball for a few years.  Times were challenging and wins were less than desired.  Some fans remained strong and believed in their team.  While others moved on, gave up on the team or just quit caring.  Hope fizzled.

Well, 2011 has become a turnaround year for the Hoosiers.  The most challenging game, the opponent being University of Kentucky (ranked #1), occurred and Assembly Hall reached capacity.  Red shirts filled the seats; with a few blue here and there.  The fans came to see a win.  The newer coaching staff and players brought a glimmer of hope in the hearts of many. 

The beginning looked grim for the Hoosiers.  But, just before halftime, they came back with a vengeance.  The second half displayed great basketball with the score remaining close.  Down to the last seconds of the game, the scored continued to rise, keeping a one point difference. 

Nine seconds left, IU trailing by two in possession of the ball. . .

. . .wide open for a three, the player makes it to win the game.  Fans rush to the floor and celebrate.  The coach takes a deep breath, stands in awe of the support from fans and digests the whole thing.  He is amazed at the progress IU basketball accomplished.  The school experienced trials, faced troubles and felt hopeless; but now rejoicing and joy is all they could feel.  They did it!  They pulled off the win, by perseverance, listening to the coach, giving 100% skill and believing in their hearts that winning is possible.

Those who heard this asked, “Who then can be saved?”

Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” (Luke 18:26-27)

"Lord, by such things people live;
   and my spirit finds life in them too.
You restored me to health
   and let me live." (Isaiah 38:16) 

Well, my friends, though trials and suffering may consume your life; God never leaves nor forsakes you.  He remains strong and believes in your salvation.  Even if loved ones around you have given up all hope in you, quit caring about your happiness or moved on to someone else; you are not forgotten.  You will not be counted lost. 

Take today and turn it around.  Accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and move forward with Him as Coach.  The most challenging battle, the opponent being Satan, occurs daily.  Without listening to right Coach, persevering, giving 100% faith and believing that God will provide strength; the battle will be greater and the spiritual battle lost.  Take a stand and do not allow Satan to win. 

There will be times when you face the final seconds of decision making.  Listen closely, take a time-out with Coach if needed and follow His path to victory.  With each decision made for Christ, with each follower added in number; the angels rejoice and sing joyously.  God and the angels never lose hope in you.  People in this world may disappoint or give up on you, but God will not.  Through Him all things are possible.  With His strength a person's life can turn from suffering, destruction, faithless, distrusting to joy, peace, believing and trusting in our Creator.  Our enemy is defeated and will never come into the hearts coached by God and claim victory. 

God, thank you for another day.  Thank You for coaching me to victory.  Thank You for the strength given each day and the comfort through tough times.  I am here to carry out Your plan for my life.  Use me to further Your kingdom.  Use me to encourage others, no matter their past, to seek You for salvation and guidance.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig