ALWAYS WINNERS

For whatever is born of God

overcomes the world. And this

is the victory that has

overcome the world...our faith.

I John 5:4

Over the last few hours, I've been interested in watching some interviews of several young college-age students. It was interesting to watch and listen to them as these weren't the usual interviews we have seen over the last longest. Individually, they made no claim to have been a part of a sit in on a highway, nor had they run into a store and then run out with stolen goods in their hands. If they had done any of these things and more, there would have been more interviews by the press than they or we could have handled.

These young ladies are a part of a team that had just won the NCAA college championship softball game. Perhaps it didn't come as a surprise to most as this was this team's third championship in a row. For hundreds and thousands who might have seen any of these interviews, something was drastically different from most of what we see under similar circumstances.

What made them so different from the norm? Well, there were somethings that really weren't different. They were very talented young women in the sport they had chosen to be a part of. To be a successful team, there had to be an adherence to authority. Someone had to be the boss to lead that team whether winning or losing. They spoke of their love of their teammates in the whole thing. They had the support of their university, family, friends and fans. However, any team can have those things going for them.

Having watched some of the games played in various cities, I would say that most teams had what this Oklahoma team had in the way of training, authority and support. They may have had the same individual qualities, but in this moment, one team came out on top. The young women interviewed often made a comment to the effect that when it came to their faith, it wouldn't have mattered if they had won or lost. They had won and gave all credit to Jesus Christ and their faith in Him. With Him, they would always be winners no matter the circumstances life may come their way. There were no apologies for this stand, nothing bragging...only in their Savior.

We too are members of the greatest team ever formed. Sometimes we focus too much on others and things while not giving full credit to our great Coach...God Himself who has provided for us our salvation through His Son as well as His Holy Spirit Who is constantly in each believer to consistently train and coach us through God's rule book...His Holy Word. Although a part of His great team, our Father loves us on a very individual basis. Maintaining that relationship is more vital than can be described. We won't always win, but He will. He will always win in the end.

Thank You Father that win or lose, You are my everything. Help me to stay in training through Your Holy Spirit..praying, in Your Word, being a witness to those around me. Thank You for Your love and forgiveness when I don't deserve either. I love you....In Jesus' name...Amen