Wednesday, December 2

Say to those who are of a fearful heart, “Be strong, do not fear.” Here is your God.
—Isaiah 35:4a

Life is almost like watching a World Series game featuring the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Angels. Imagine having a bird’s eye view of the catcher’s mitt. A batter steps to the plate, then the catcher signals to the pitcher the recommended pitch for that particular batter, intent on eliciting a “Strike!” call from the referee. 

The pitcher throws a straight ball and then a curve ball. As the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand, the batter must be ready to act, not knowing the strategy the catcher and pitcher have in mind. It’s up to the batter alone to decide if he should swing at the ball, and his decision must be made without a fearful heart!

Life has a way of pitching a series of straight balls and curve balls into our days. In the game of life we are faced with all kinds of choices and sets of rules that are unveiled when we step up to the plate. No matter what is thrown our way, we can choose to move quickly and decisively or wait patiently for greater revelation of God's divine plan. 

God is the umpire and makes the deciding call about the pitch—whether it is a ball or a strike. We, however, make the decision about whether to swing the bat or hold the batter's stance. Whatever we decide to do, we can act with strength and a courageous heart. God is our God no matter what decision we make.

Even in those moments when we fail to be all that we can be, God never turns away from us. God's love and care for us are unfailing, so we can never really lose in the game of life.

Gracious God, help us to make the right decisions even when we are fearful. Help us stay strong even while we must endure the consequences of those decisions.