We’ve all been there at some point. We’re watching our favorite team beat their opponent and it looks like victory is sure!  When all of a sudden, the opposing team gets a breath of fresh air. It’s like they’re playing for their lives. Score! Score! Score again!  This can’t be happening. We had this thing won. What happened? The whistle blows. The coach called a timeout. 

Thank goodness. They’ve got to regroup. They need to get back to the original plan. Somehow, they lost focus. Isn’t that how we are in life? Things are going pretty smoothly and suddenly we hit a rough patch. It comes without a moment’s notice. We need to blow the whistle and take a timeout. Our Coach needs to speak with us. 

Jesus is watching us in the game of life and He knows we’re losing focus of what’s important. Our days are filled with endless activities that ultimately leave us empty inside and wanting more. We somehow got off track and things don’t feel right. The results are definitely lacking considering all the hard efforts made. He’s going to make adjustments. He knows exactly what we need. 

Verse 6 of Hebrews chapter 12 tells us that the Lord disciplines those He loves. The word “discipline” and the word “disciple” both have Latin roots. Discipline in this context means instruction and training. We are the Lord’s disciples which means “student”, so don’t get a negative idea about this discipline. The Lord wants to give us instructions on how to go about living this life. He wants to see us succeed in the areas that always trip us up. We receive His instructions from His Word. That’s the only place guidance for humanity is found. We have to get back to the owner’s manual and review the plans the Maker has for us. Proverbs 4:20-22 says “My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body (NLT).”  This is truly a loving Father instructing His child. This is not some sideline ranting sports coach yelling at us for doing wrong. This is The Lord gently turning us back to the original game plan. 

So, we’re refreshed and back in the game! Our head is on straight and our eyes are focused heavenward toward the One with all the answers. Now we can truly walk in peace. This tranquility Jesus has imparted to us is worth more than silver and gold combined. There’s an ease to our steps, even if it’s a climb. Just inviting Jesus into our situation changed everything!  So, when the going gets tough, and it will, take a time out and speak with Jesus. Don’t let anger or frustration get the best of you. The best is yet to come when you get God’s perspective on whatever you’re dealing with. 

Philippians 4:6-7 says “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His face will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”  What a promise! What a Savior!  This is the reason we run to the sidelines. This is what we’re looking for. Excuse me, life. I’m going to take a moment and meet with Jesus. I need a Timeout!

 

Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband, Robby and cat, Harold.

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