Our brain is an extraordinary gift from God that must be put to good use. Everything that we think or do begins in our minds. Because of this we need to rely on God, as our understanding and thoughts are very limited, while God is unlimited. God is the Architect of all architects who can see from the beginning to the end. He knows the processes and sequences. He also has ways beyond our understanding, ways to deal with difficulties and solve problems that might never cross our minds.
There is a truth in Colossians 3:2 that encourages us to have the mind of Christ. “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” We can choose to always think about God. This requires us to process through our prayers, words, worship, and ministry—all we do.
Our perspectives and thoughts determine who we are, our decisions, and the direction our life will take. We can have the mind and perspective of Christ.
Baseball: 3 Life Lessons from Baseball
Baseball, it is said, is only a game.TRUE.
AND THE GRAND CANYON IS ONLY A HOLE IN ARIZONA. NOT ALL HOLES, OR GAMES,
ARE CREATED EQUAL. – George Will
There are life lessons to learn from all sports (except maybe badminton), but by far, baseball is comprised of all life lessons rolled up into one game. As if we are the batter and the pitcher is life, we stand with our cleats dug in the dirt waiting for the next pitch. Until the ball releases from the hand, it is a mystery as to what will come next. With each at bat, we gain new experience that will further us along the path of life. Here are 3 life lessons to be taken from America’s favorite pastime.
1. Patience is a Virtue
In most cases, it is in our best interest not to rush things. Patience is a Godly virtue and something we are instructed to practice. The very best hitters in baseball average hitting the ball only 3 times out of 10. It takes great patience and discipline for long term success in baseball as well as life.
2. How to Deal with Pressure
It requires laser focus to hit a pitch thrown by a major league pitcher. The batter can’t focus on anything else but staying disciplined to his hitting approach. It takes .45 seconds for a fastball to arrive in the catcher’s mitt, and the batter can’t be distracted by doubt or fear. Nor can he be guided by emotions or irrational thought. He must stay focused under the intense pressure to succeed. Buckling under pressure in marriage, parenting, and life is where we get into trouble. We must stay focused on our commitments and stay true to our goals.
3. Teamwork Wins Championships
Talent will carry us only so far, but when the critical moments arrive, it takes an entire team working as one to come out on top. It is the same way in life with our marriages, our roles as parents, or our careers; it requires great teamwork to get where we want to go. Baseball is a very hard game to play, and fulfilling lives are very difficult to lead. Everyone involved has to work together for a common purpose.
The Other Stuff
It is with a bit of sadness I have to report that one of our favorite breakfast/brunch spots “Over Easy” in the Hollywood area of Birmingham AL has closed.
“Remember, True happiness is a bowl of Purple Grits.”