Call A TIME-OUT!! - Encouragement Café - April 12
Call a TIME-OUT!!
By Jill Beran
Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10 NASB
The clock was ticking, the opponent’s lead was increasing and my girls were tired, so I did what most coaches would do - called a time-out. I had the girls take a seat, get a drink, and offered some encouraging words. I tried to instruct and put things in perspective. A break from the action and a little advice from the coach helped my athletes get back on track.
Later that week when my thoughts were racing, kids were screaming and bills were piling up, God reminded me I could do the same. I could push pause in the game of life, connect with my heavenly Father and renew my thinking.
As a coach, I know time-outs are important in the game of basketball, but as a Christian, wife, and Mom, I’m learning they are just as critical in life. There are moments when the pressure is on and the opponent attacks… that’s when we must call a time-out. The same is true for the times when we are frustrated, angry, or full of doubt. I’ve even called a time-out when my team was playing well and they needed their egos checked. Don’t be surprised if God does the same to keep you humble!
Friend, a time-out never lasts long - 30 or 60 seconds on the basketball court, but its impact can make a difference in the game. Pushing pause, being still, and remembering God is God can make a difference in our day and perhaps in someone else’s life.
Psalm 46:10 says, “Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Many of us know the first part of this verse, which is good, but the last phrase is equally important. When we’re still, we acknowledge God. When we acknowledge Him, we exalt Him and are able to hear from Him. When we hear from Him, we’ll be able to obey Him and others can see Him!!
Friend, if the game of life is out of control, “Call a Time-Out!” Listen to your heavenly Coach and remember He is God!
Take a moment and call a time-out! You don’t have to go to the bench or grab a water bottle, instead open your Bible and hear from the Lord. Here are a few suggestions:
If you’re struggling with anxiety turn to Matthew 6:25-34 or Philippians 4:6-7.
If you’re dealing with anger turn to Proverbs 14:29 or James 1:19-20.
If you’re in the midst of a relationship struggle see what God has to say in Ephesians 4:2-3 or Hebrews 13:5.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed visit Philippians 4:8, Psalm 27:1, or Psalm 34:17.
Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes life is hard. The pressure is on, the opponent attacks and a comeback seems impossible. In those moments help me remember I’m not alone, remind me to call a time-out and connect with You, the One who knows, sees and can instruct. Help me listen to your instructions and implement Your plan. As I do that Lord, may I glorify You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
For more encouragement, visit Jill at titus24u.blogspot.com.
© 2021 by Jill Beran. All rights reserved.
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