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Pick Your Head Up

Theme: Pick Your Head Up

Verse: "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1)

Expectations can be a powerful motivator. Every parent I know encourages their child to reach the next milestone—whether it’s rolling over like my four-month-old granddaughter, getting into the college of their choice, or stepping into adulthood with confidence.

But where do we draw the line between encouragement and pressure? The tragic story of Todd Marinovich, the California high school football sensation of the 1980s, is a stark example of excessive pressure pushing an athlete too far. While most situations don’t reach such extremes, the burden of performance—whether imposed by others or ourselves—is a real struggle that can lead to discouragement and depression when expectations go unmet.

Striking the right balance between motivation and well-being is no easy task. Thankfully, the Bible offers wisdom and reassurance. When life feels overwhelming, God's presence restores balance and renews our strength.

"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." (Psalm 42:5)

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18)

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." (Psalm 147:3)

"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles." (Psalm 34:17)

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

"When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy." (Psalm 94:19)

If the weight of expectations, discouragement, or depression feels heavy, reach out. You are not alone—God desires the best for you and will lead you to the right support and relief.

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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What is a Hero?

Theme: What is a Hero?

Quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country.” (John F. Kennedy, January 20, 1961)

As you read this, the 81st anniversary of D-Day is near—a time to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who gave everything for freedom.

I recently completed the Lakeland Police Foundation Fallen Heroes Memorial 5K run. At the finish line stood signs honoring the Lakeland Police officers who laid down their lives in service. A somber yet powerful reminder of true heroism.

But what is a hero? Our minds often go to soldiers, police officers, firefighters, and first responders—those who answer the call, even at great personal risk. And rightfully so.

Yet, heroism is broader than we sometimes recognize. Here are a few heroes that cross my path on a nearly daily basis.

- The teacher shaping young minds for a future yet unseen.

- The diner worker waking up at 3:30 AM so your breakfast is ready at 6:00.

- The fitness center staff that greet sleepy gym-goers before dawn, offering encouragement.

- The caregiver balancing life and love for an ailing family member.

A hero, simply put, is one who puts others before themselves, then turns compassion into action.

The Bible speaks profoundly on this:

- “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

- “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13

- “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

- “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:40

- “But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” – Luke 22:26

So, as you reflect on the heroes of history, pause to acknowledge the heroes in your everyday life and say “thank you.”

Have a GREAT (and grateful) week!

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And the World will be a Better Place.

Theme: And the World will be a Better Place.

Thought: I hope when you decide, kindness will be your guide. (Jackie DeShannon, “Put a Little Love in Your Heart”, 1969)

Many of us have grown up hearing this simple yet powerful advice: “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” It’s a lesson in kindness and restraint, passed down through generations. Yet, in a world where negativity often dominates—from heated exchanges in sports arenas to the relentless waves of criticism online—it’s a principle that’s frequently ignored.

So, how should we respond when faced with harsh words? Our natural tendency is to fight back, eager to share our own “wisdom” in order to correct the situation. But more often than not, this approach leads to unnecessary conflict, drawing us into an endless cycle of discord.

Scripture offers us a wiser path. Proverbs warns, “Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.” Reacting in anger only perpetuates the strife rather than resolving it. In the digital age—where words can linger indefinitely—the importance of a measured response cannot be overstated.

Rather than reacting impulsively, let’s embrace the power of thoughtful communication. Wisdom isn’t just about what we say—it’s about when, where, and how we say it. Responding with grace does not mean being passive or silent; rather, it means choosing words that uplift instead of tear down. When we approach conversations with humility and a willingness to learn from others, we foster deeper connections, strengthen relationships, and create a world that is kinder, more understanding, and truly better.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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The Power of Rest

Theme: The Power of Rest

Verse: On the seventh day God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation. (Genesis 2: 2-3)

I’ve written about this before. Apparently, I need a refresher on this topic.

Rest is a fundamental part of life. Even the most intense training regimens demand days for recovery. And if God Himself took time to rest after creating the universe, that should tell us something—it’s a model we’re meant to follow.

Yet, in the whirlwind of our daily responsibilities—work, school, relationships, caregiving—it’s easy to push rest aside. We get only 168 hours in a week, and how we prioritize them determines the course of our lives.

Science confirms what Scripture teaches: lack of rest leads to reduced brain function, heightened stress, slower muscle recovery, and a host of other negative effects. But rest isn’t just about the physical—it’s about the soul. God designed moments of stillness, prayer, and meditation as ways to restore us, not just physically, but spiritually.

If rest feels elusive, consider simple ways to unwind—reading, walking in nature, enjoying a quiet moment at a coffee shop, or even disconnecting from the ever-present screens in our lives. Prioritize rest. Protect it. If God modeled it, we should embrace it too.

Have a GREAT (and restful) week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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You can’t steal second with your foot on first base!

Theme: You can’t steal second with your foot on first base!

Verse: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)

Have you ever hesitated to take a leap of faith? Maybe it was stepping up to speak in front of a crowd, trying a new sport, beginning a fitness routine, or even considering a career shift. The moment right before making a move is often filled with uncertainty, nervous energy, and the fear of the unknown.

That fear, however, rarely matches reality. Once you step forward, you often find that the challenge wasn’t as overwhelming as you thought—it becomes an adventure instead of an obstacle. The negative assumptions and anxious expectations fade away, replaced by exhilaration.

Yet, fear can still hold us back in future moments of uncertainty. One way to reframe fear is by understanding it this way:

F: False E: Expectations A: Appearing R: Real

So often, fear is built on exaggerated doubts that convince us failure is inevitable. But God’s Word reminds us over and over that He is with us every step of the way.

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” —Matthew 28:20

“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” —Hebrews 13:5

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” —Psalm 46:1

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” —Jeremiah 29:11

These promises should fill us with confidence as we face new challenges. The assurance that God is present wherever we go gives us the courage to step outside of our comfort zones.

So go ahead—take the leap! Trust in His presence and embrace the adventure ahead.

Have a GREAT (and adventurous) week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Embrace Change!

Theme: Embrace Change!

Verse: Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

In the summer of 1964, the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals made a surprising six-player trade. The Cubs acquired Ernie Broglio, a standout pitcher for the Cardinals, while the Cards took a chance on a relatively unknown and underwhelming Lou Brock. At the time, Cardinals fans were outraged—they believed the team had made a disastrous mistake.

As the season unfolded, it turned out the deal was indeed one-sided—just not in the way fans expected. Brock found his stride in St. Louis, hitting .348 for the remainder of the season and helped the Cardinals secure a World Series victory against the New York Yankees (yes, another opportunity to point out a Yankees loss). The change of environment had unlocked his God-given talents. The culture in the Cardinals' clubhouse was the perfect fit for him, paving the way for a Hall of Fame career that included leading his team to three World Series in five years.

This story raises a question for each of us: What kind of culture are we part of—in our workplaces, schools, churches, and beyond? The right environment is crucial for bringing out the best in us and fulfilling the purposes God has for our lives.

God has provided us with a blueprint for the ideal culture—one built on respect, kindness, and humility, where excellence is pursued not for personal glory but for the benefit of others. If the culture you’re in doesn’t reflect this, don’t worry! You have the power to spark change.

Be the leader, friend, and teammate God has called you to be. Live out your faith by demonstrating compassion and humility in all you do. As you stay true to your beliefs and embody these values, you’ll see transformation happen right before your eyes—both in yourself and in those around you.

So, who are you? The Lou Brock struggling to find his place with the Cubs, or the one who thrived and led the Cardinals to greatness?

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Make Good Choices

Theme: Make Good Choices

Verse: Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” — 1 Corinthians 15:33

In 2011, just after our oldest daughter graduated from high school, our family took a trip before she left for college. We stayed with her Godmother, and as we were saying our goodbyes—fully aware that a new chapter was about to begin—her Godmother turned to her and said something simple but unforgettable:

“Make good choices!”

It made us laugh in the moment, but those three words became a running theme in our family. We’ve said them more times than we can count—though following them is still a work in progress!

The truth is life is full of choices. Some are small—like what’s for dinner (tonight: grilled pork chops) or whether the Rays should bunt the runner over (usually, yes!). Others are far more significant—What career should I pursue? Who should I spend my life with?

But here’s the catch: the people we surround ourselves with influence how we make those choices.

Paul was getting at this in his letter to the Corinthians. The church was struggling spiritually because many believers were surrounding themselves with people who didn’t share their faith. Over time, their values began to erode. So, Paul issued a warning that still rings true today: “Bad company ruins good morals.”

Who we spend time with shapes who we become.

We are who we meet.

At the center of our decisions is our belief system. And when our faith in God is strong—when it’s nurtured by meaningful relationships with other believers—we’re far more likely to make choices that honor Him. Good company strengthens good character.

So, take some time this week to reflect:

Who’s influencing your life right now? Are your relationships pulling you closer to Christ—or slowly drifting you away?

Choose your circle wisely.

And as always…

Make good choices—and have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Doole

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Make Good Choices

Theme: Make Good Choices

Verse: Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” — 1 Corinthians 15:33

“Make good choices!”

It made us laugh in the moment, but those three words became a running theme in our family. We’ve said them more times than we can count—though following them is still a work in progress!

But here’s the catch: the people we surround ourselves with influence how we make those choices.

Who we spend time with shapes who we become.

We are who we meet.

So, take some time this week to reflect:

Who’s influencing your life right now? Are your relationships pulling you closer to Christ—or slowly drifting you away?

Choose your circle wisely.

And as always…

Make good choices—and have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Doole

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Pursue Righteousness

Theme: Pursue Righteousness

Verse: Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor (Proverbs 21:21).

The Olympics always bring a sense of excitement, especially when we witness some of the less familiar sports. One unusual event typically seen only in the Summer Games (or maybe on “The Ocho”) is called “Pursuit”—a bicycle race unlike the usual dash to the finish line. In this competition, racers start on opposite sides of a velodrome (a special cycling track) and chase each other until one catches the other.

This concept of pursuit mirrors the life God calls us to live. He wants us to actively pursue righteousness—a life defined by wisdom, humility, and devotion to His ways. It’s about living with a genuine desire to honor Him and submitting to His purpose for your life.

While this pursuit may sound straightforward, it’s undeniably challenging. Life often throws obstacles our way, and standing firm in righteousness takes resilience and faith. Yet, it’s this very pursuit that sets us apart. By staying steadfast in your walk with God, you become a radiant light, shining brightly in a world full of darkness.

Center your heart on God as you face life’s challenges. Pray for grace, strength, and wisdom, trusting that He is always with you and guiding your steps. With God at your side, no challenge is too big.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Be a Hall of Famer

Theme: Be a Hall of Famer

Verse: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." (Colossians 3:23)

I’m writing this just moments after Alex Ovechkin surpassed Wayne Gretzky to become the NHL’s all-time career goal scorer. This achievement places him alongside legends like Cal Ripken Jr., who broke Lou Gehrig’s record with 2,632 consecutive games played, and Pat Summitt, who coached 38 seasons without a single losing record. These are records that stand as towering accomplishments in sports history and are unlikely to be surpassed. Without a doubt, Ovechkin will join these icons in their respective Halls of Fame, cementing his legacy in the world of hockey.

Career or multi-season records hold greater importance to me than single season ones because while both required skill to achieve the marks, career records have the extra element of longevity, excellence over time.

In our faith walk we are looking to be career performers, not single game (or single season) flashes in the pan.

So, what does a career performer in a faith journey look like?

Consistently honor God. When we juggle our schedule that includes, friends, family, exercise, work, don’t forget to keep God first.

Stay healthy. The most important element of this is eating and exercising right. For our faith journey that means being fed by the Word of God and exercising His Word in all we say and do.

Be Ready for the call: You never know when or where God will work through you. On June 1, 1925, Lou Gehrig pinch-hit in the 8th inning of a 5-3 loss to the Washington Senators (he flew out to left, and yes, I feel obligated to note every Yankees loss). The very next day, he stepped in for Wally Pipp, who was sidelined with a headache. From that moment forward, Gehrig became the Yankees' starting first baseman, playing an astounding 2,130 consecutive games and solidifying his status as a baseball legend. Likewise, we must remain ready to respond to God's call and embrace opportunities to serve as His hands and feet.

Let’s not strive for temporary recognition, but for the eternal Hall of Fame—standing before our Heavenly Father and hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). Be consistent, stay spiritually fit, and remain ready to answer His call.

That’s the Hall of Fame that matters most!

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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In case I don’t see you . . .

Theme: In case I don’t see you . . .

Verse: The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.” (Proverbs 15:3)

The movie “The Truman Show” is an interesting story. Actor/Comedian Jim Carrey actually plays a fairly normal character in this one (for once). Instead, the premise of the story is whacky. For those that have not seen the movie, Truman Burbank (Jim Carrey) is “living” a life in a totally controlled environment created to present a television show. All the people around Truman are actors and in on the charade that is his life.

While whacky, the movie plot gives us something to ponder. What sort of charade do we present to the outside world? Are we authentic, living life as we present to those around us, or do we have a different life behind the safety of our closed doors?

It really comes down to integrity.

Integrity in its most literal definition means wholeness, blameless or without blemish. But since no one in history since Jesus has achieved this, that is not really the standard God expects.

What He does expect is for us to give it our best shot.

When we are training for a race, typically it is won (or goal achieved) based on the work we put in when others are not watching. The miles put in on a weekend long run, the extra set of reps lifting weights, or knocking down those ten straight free throws after the rest of the team has gone off to the showers.

That same sort of discipline can be applied to other parts of our lives. A good gauge is to ask yourself if you are doing things that honor God or doing things that honor us in the world. When we move from honoring ourselves to honoring God we move toward integrity.

Unlike Truman, we don’t need hidden cameras to hold us accountable. God sees us—and more importantly, He loves us. Not for the performance we give, but for the heart that seeks Him.

So, ask yourself: Am I leading a life that honors God, or a façade that pleases others? If not, move toward honesty, toward wholeness, toward Him.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Expectations

Theme: Expectations

Verse: For by grace, you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:8)

Coach Deion Sanders was asked what the most difficult things he has had to do as a football coach. He replied that it was managing expectations. In his context, he was talking about how he could not expect things out of his players or staff that he would not expect of himself.

Great Leadership advice!

That got me thinking about things we expect of ourselves.

There is life model that is depicted by a series of three concentric circles; the outer ring is the Circle of Concern (those things, like weather, that we have no control of whatsoever), the middle the Circle of Influence (those things we have input into, but others make the final decisions), and right at the core of the circle in the Circle of Control.

Unlike the outer two rings, the Circle of Control contains things you have direct power over. These would be things like:

- Your thoughts and attitudes

- Your words and actions

- How you spend your time

- Your reactions to events

God’s expectation of us is that we rock the things inside our Circle of Control. So, it would behoove us to spend most of our time and energy right there (50-60% of our time). He created each of us with a purpose and with the capacity to meet that expectation. The Circle of Influence is an OK place as well for a period of time (maybe 30-40%), but you need to gauge when your ability to influence has expired. The Circle of Concern should be visited sparingly (less than 10%), like seeing that a hurricane is coming your way, and it is time to either evacuate or board up the windows (both Circle of Control responses to a Circle of Concern event).

So, the next time things start to become overwhelming, instead of trying to control the uncontrollable, or spending extra time trying to control something that we can only influence, just take a deep breath and take the pressure off of yourself. Move back into your Circle of Control and let God take care of the rest.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Doole

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Are You My Mentor?

Theme: Are You My Mentor?

Verse: A wise man will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel. (Proverbs 1:5)

I was reading the children’s book, “Are You my Mother?” with my grandson, Wyatt, the other day. It got me thinking of this topic. For those that don’t remember (or have never read) the book, a baby bird is about to hatch out of its egg, so the mother leaves the nest in search of food for the new arrival. Meanwhile, the baby bird is born (well, technically hatched) and discovers the mother not there. He goes off into the world asking whether everything he sees is his mother.

People’s lives can be very similar if they don’t have good role models to follow. They will wander around like the baby bird wondering who will guide them through life.

I have had hundreds of mentors in my life. (When you get to be Medicare age, the numbers accumulate.) Some have been better than others. The best of them showed me that all things we do prepare us for other aspects of our lives. For example, team sports help us cooperate and collaborate to achieve the goal and that gets us ready for working with teams at work or on community projects.

So, what makes a good mentor?

1. They are good listeners. Steven Covey talked about seeking first to understand, then to be understood. This requires active listening and being genuinely interested in the other person in the conversation (which is another characteristic of great mentors).

2. They give constructive feedback. Feedback that merely identifies a problem without providing a path to resolution is half baked. If you want to be a great mentor, always provide solution options when providing feedback.

3. They are enthusiastic! No Eeyores allowed. (More children book references. Are you detecting a trend?) Great Mentors are more like Tigger, bouncing around, clearly happy to be part of process. You can feel the energy in the room when they are around, and they tend to get the person (or group) as excited about the endeavor as they are.

4. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. The great Aretha Franklin gave us the concept in song. Even though they have superior knowledge and experience, great mentors know the other person has value and potential that can be molded into something great.

5. They are skilled teachers. Without teachers where would the world be? It’s great to be able to accomplish things on our own, but the community is much better off when our skills can be duplicated. Great mentors know the value of sharing their information with others and have a unique ability to effectively do so.

6. They take responsibility for those in their trust. Great mentors literally feel the ups and downs of their mentees as they carve their own path.

7. This one is hard for me. Great mentors are non-judgmental. Human nature is such that we know the best way for something to get done and any deviation from that is, well, just wrong. Not holding those with differing views of the world in some sort of judgment is difficult (at least it is for me). But the great mentors seem to have mastered it.

8. Their expertise is well documented. They don’t have to have all the answers but should have some credibility in the field. They don’t have to have been a world champion but should have shown some success in that area. If you want to know something about flying an airplane you probably want to talk to someone that has flown a lot. But it’s better to talk to a pilot rather than a person that has accumulated a million frequent flyer miles sitting in Seat 14C.

Each of us will be on both sides of the mentor equation at some point in our lives (and maybe in the course of a given day). Embrace the fact that God created us to both GIVE and RECEIVE mentorship. Look for opportunities to do so and when you do, seek the qualities list above. The world will be a better place when you do.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Play Like a Champion Today

Theme: Play Like a Champion Today

Verse: “Run in such a way as to get the prize.” (1 Corinthians 9:24)

If my calculation is correct, the first round of March Madness starts today. The first of six steps to a National College Basketball championship (seven if you played in one of the “First Four” games in the last couple of days.)

All those playing in the tournament have worked hard getting to a very elite status in the game of basketball. Many of them won district and state championships in high school and a few will move on to the professional leagues to achieve more success at the higher level.

Unfortunately, most of us will never reach that level of success in sports.

But that does not mean we can’t be champions. If we focus and have determination in living our life for Christ we can claim the ultimate prize in heaven; everlasting life with Jesus and hearing God say, “Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant.”

The beauty of this effort is it does not require any particular physical skill or body type. God does not care if you can jump high enough to grab a dollar bill off the top of a backboard, are big and strong enough to run a football through a group of 300 pound defensive linemen, or have enough speed to lap the field on the 5,000 meter race in track and field. He only asks that you live a life of faith in His son Jesus in order to receive the prize.

So, let’s focus our competitive spirit on building our relationship with Christ and Play Like a Champion Today!

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Marathon Fuel

Theme: Marathon Fuel

Verse: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

If you want to run a marathon (or any other long race) well, you have to put the miles in. Runner World magazine says somewhere 30-60 miles per week is the amount one should run to be properly prepared for a full marathon.

But who has the time for that much running? Getting up early helps but still there are only 168 hours in a week and this week we lost one of those by going to daylight savings time. (Don’t worry, we get the hour back in November!)

What about the spiritual race we are running? What are the “miles” we need to put in to prepare to run that race?

That it would be PRAYER.

Like mileage for a marathon, we find it difficult to allot adequate time to immerse ourselves in the key activity that provides the fuel required to run the spiritual race well.

We can find time for both!

If we think of prayer as constant communication with God, we may find ourselves praying in some non-conventional fashions and that might make it easier to “squeeze” in our prayer time. We can pray when we wake up or take our morning shower. We can pray on our way to school or work (if driving in Tampa traffic, I would highly recommend that). We can also pray while we do our daily workout or before a race or game.

Figure out a way to put prayer into our allotted 168 hours each week and we will find more spiritual endurance to be ready for life’s marathon.

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Doole

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When Opportunity Knocks . . .

Theme: When Opportunity Knocks . . .

Verse: Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. (Psalm 100:3)

We all have a set of talents. Many have extraordinary talents like being able to sing well, run fast, or stand up in front of a classroom and command the attention of the audience. Regardless of what our set of talents is, one common thing is true. We all are merely stewards of the talent(s) that God has given us to manage for HIS purpose.

Unfortunately, that is not exactly the prevailing sentiment in today’s culture. We tend to forget that we do not create our talents. Gog did! So, it is refreshing when we hear athletes give direct praise to their Creator in post-game interviews before they answer the question asked of them. It shows an element of humbleness while the showers of human accolades pour in after the race was won or the winning hit was stroked perfectly into the right center gap allowing the runner to come all the way around from 1st base to score (The latter was to get you ready for baseball season.).

Ok, now it’s time for a movie reference.

Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) epitomizes gratefulness for opportunities. He described his life as his mother taught him, like a box of chocolates. “You never know what you are going to get!” While a simple-minded man, he was wise enough to know who he was and where he was spending eternity. That’s why it seemed such an easy task to do all the remarkable things he accomplished in his fictitious life; Football All-American, save his platoon in Vietnam (and win the Medal of Honor), build a shrimping empire, and run coast to coast several times.

He was genuinely grateful for each experience in a way so uncommon that it took on a comedic tone. But instead of seeing his life story as absurd, what if we were more like Forrest and considered the simplest of things gifts from God. What if we had the attitude each morning that by the grace of God, we wake to a new dawn with an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.

So, there is your challenge. As you go about your week, look for occasions to be grateful for the opportunities and talents God has gifted you and share how good our God truly is.

You may find the next dip into that box of chocolates is you being in the right place at the right time for someone!

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Words Matter

Theme: Words Matter

Verse: Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin. (Proverbs 13:3)

A couple of weeks ago the opening 0:09 of the Group Stage USA-Canada hockey game was quite remarkable. Three separate (not simultaneous) fights broke out in less time than it takes to count a fighter out in an actual boxing match.

Now these were professional players playing for their national teams. And though my wife hates it, fighting is part of the game of hockey. By all accounts the fights were pre-arranged as a way to settle the national squabbles over hockey and other recent events. But like professional wrestling, the fights were set up, so no one was going to get hurt. It got the crowd energized, so it was a really good TV moment. (For the record, the fight sequence ended USA 1 - Canada 1 with one draw and Team USA won the game 3-1.)

But you and I don’t live for TV moments. In the real world when engaging in trash talk, especially when it leads to bigger things, people can really get hurt and not just by a punch in the face.

The problem with trash talking is that you’re never quite sure what the receiver is going to hear. He or she could be having a really bad day, and your words could trigger something dark in their life.

I don’t recall God or Jesus using trash talk in the Bible. If someone can show me an instance, I’ll stand corrected.

God wants us to use acceptable and empowering speech that edifies others. True leaders are usually pretty good at it. They use the gifts that God has given them to uplift and encourage those around them. So, think before you speak, use your words to uplift people.

The following has been attributed to several famous people. Regardless of who coined the saying, it has relevance to how to act when an opportunity for trash talking presents itself.

“It’s Better to Remain Silent and Be Thought a Fool than to Speak and Remove All Doubt.”

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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If at first you don’t succeed …

Theme: If at first you don’t succeed …

Verse: And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)

Last week marked the 20th anniversary of the movie “Hitch”. It has nothing to do with sports (unless you consider jet-skiing a sport), so yes, I can use movie examples that are NOT sports related. The scene from the movie that applies today is when Hitch says, “Do you know the definition of "perseverance,", Miss Melas? Continuing in a course of action... without regard to discouragement, opposition, or previous failure.”

For those unfamiliar with the story, Alex (Hitch) Hitchens (Will Smith) is a dating coach with Albert Brennaman (Kevin James) as a client. Hitch is helping Albert attract a celebrity client that is kind of “out of his league.” Meanwhile Hitch has his own dating drama. There are lots of ups and downs in the pursuit of their respective goals, but my takeaway was both gentlemen knew their objective and were determined to reach it even if it meant resorting to unorthodox methods.

So, what are we chasing? It doesn’t matter if it is a personal best in running a race or a better relationship with our Lord, there are going to be some hiccups. What happens when the path isn’t a smooth one? Do we give up or do we persevere?

Don’t worry if you are not a perfect Christian. God is molding us into being more like Jesus every day through each of our experiences. Along the way think about Hitch’s definition of perseverance. Continue on that course of action, without regard to whatever roadblock(s) the world puts in front of you.

Be confident during the trials because, though it may take a while, as we pursue Kingdom work, we will be rewarded with victory at the end!

Have a GREAT week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Anger is but one letter removed from Danger

Theme: Anger is but one letter removed from Danger

Thought: “In any argument, anger never solves a problem nor wins a debate! If you are right, then there is no need to get angry. If you are wrong, then you don’t have the right to get angry.”

Jackie Robinson’s birthday was at the end of last month (January 31, 1919). We often celebrate his life in April on the anniversary of his breaking the MLB color barrier in 1947. But his journey fits along with the theme of the week so I thought why not take some time profile him.

It seems on a daily basis we face situations that call for confrontation. A customer service experience that goes south, a workplace incident where we feel we were “wronged”, or possibly a family misunderstanding that has gotten out of control.

Our natural human instinct is to fight back. And that certainly is the cultural norm. Our sports tend to reinforce that. In baseball, the custom is that if one player violates an unwritten rule (stealing a base when your team has a large lead, showboating after hitting a home run (see last week’s devotional), or crossing the pitcher’s mound when returning to the dugout) you can predict the next time that player comes to the plate, there will be some fireworks.

These responses are always done out of anger in an effort to send a “message.” In our regular lives we have no such outlet to send messages when we feel wronged, so we just display our anger in different ways. Often it is not pretty.

Robinson’s rookie season was filled with opportunities for him to fight back against injustice. My beloved St. Louis Cardinals allegedly threatened to strike if Robinson played, and the Philadelphia Phillies manager verbally abused him from the opposing dugout in an early season game. Instead of creating a confrontation Robinson merely went along his way doing the job the Dodgers hired him to do, that is play a pretty good first base (not his natural position), hit .297 (97 points higher than Bob Uecker’s career average), and help the Dodgers get to the World Series.

God does not want us to be Hotheads. The next time an opportunity arises that seems to call for lashing out at someone, reflect on Jackie Robinson’s rookie year experience. If you want to be a leader, to truly influence your community, it is better to remain calm, cool and collected just like Robinson did in 1947.

Have an AWESOME week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley

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Be like Barry and Skip the Dance

Theme: Be like Barry and Skip the Dance

Verse: Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips. (Proverbs 27:2)

It’s Super Bowl week, so we have to talk about football. Ironically, we are going to profile a person who played for a team that has never made it to the Big Game.

Those of you who are old enough might remember one of the all-time great NFL running backs, Barry Sanders of the Detroit Lions. He stands at #4 on the list of career rushing yards in the NFL and he did it in only ten seasons.

But to me what stands out about him is not the prolific stats, but how he conducted himself on the field. He scored 109 touchdowns in his illustrious, but all too short, career. And do you know what he did after each one of them?

He found the nearest official and without any fanfare, flipped or handed the ball to him.

Are you kidding me? No dance in the end zone? No chest bump with his teammates? No “discussion” with an opposing player?

Nope. He simply went to the Detroit sideline and waited for the next offensive series so he and the Lions could try again.

How do we act on our playing field? Do we spend time “over-celebrating” our victories? Or do we keep everything in focus, reflecting on how fortunate we are that God has given of the talent and opportunity to be in position to do whatever it is we do and, in that moment, have done it well?

Our God gives us the ability to succeed AND to fail. But He does not want us to put too much value on either of those extremes. God put you on this earth and gave you whatever platform you have as a way to impact others. How you react to success and failure goes a long way in determining what that impact will be. Your demeanor in those moments speaks volumes about your attitude and who is in control of your life.

So, the next time you reach the “end zone” during your life’s journey (fixing a plumbing problem in record time, knocking a presentation out of the park, acing a test, or achieving a Personal Record (PR) in a running/biking/swimming race), remember Barry Sanders. Just metaphorically flip the football to the official and get ready for the next play.

Have a SUPER (Bowl) week!

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Doole