What A Game!

As you may know, I’m not much of a football fan. I watch but a couple of games a year, including the Super Bowl.  But, I was glad I watched this year’s Super Bowl game from start to finish.  It was an incredible game as we watched the underdogs, the Atlanta Falcons, take a huge lead in the first half of the game, even leading 28-3 in the third quarter, and then lose the game and the title to the New England Patriots. 

I’m not quite sure if the Patriots won the game by digging their heels in, letting their huge deficit motivate them to play harder, and rallying together by becoming more offensive in their play; or, if the Falcons lost the game by allowing their huge lead to make them complacent and a bit sloppy in their defense and lackadaisical in their offense. After all, no team has ever lost a Super Bowl with the kind of lead that the Falcons had.  In the end, all I could say was, “What a game!” I’m sure you felt the same. 

   Atlanta Falcons kicker Matt Bryant after the game

It reminds me of Paul’s words found in the New Testament, “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” (1 Corinthians 10:12 – NIV)  The warning is given because every one of us is vulnerable to temptation and sin.  We all have the potential to fall into sins that we never thought possible. Especially during those times when we feel like we are winning, we must work hard to maintain a strong defense against sin and keep up a strong offense as we continue to grow in our faith and knowledge of Christ.  

The Apostle Paul goes on to say, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13 – NIV)  If we will continue to live in wisdom, grace, and dependent upon God (the ultimate quarterback!), he will help us overcome every temptation that comes our way.  He is faithful!  With him on our side, we can and will win the game! 

Have a great day!

Pastor Tim Harris