October is my favorite month. It may be because we enjoy many birthday celebrations and anniversaries. I am sure that my love of cooler temperatures helps my mood as I am a nester who loves the warmth of the fireplace, a cup of cocoa, and football!
In recent years I have enjoyed the sport even more as we have watched men who care about the image they project both on and off the field. It all began with Kurt Warner, who openly shared his faith as he took our team to a Super Bowl victory. Coaches like Tony Dungy and Jim Tressell, who have guided their teams with passion and with faith and integrity. These men care about the example they set for our children. I applaud the way they allow the Lord to use them.
Another player we applaud is Tim Tebow. I never imagined myself to be a fan of the University of Florida, but Tim Tebow has me cheering for the Gators. Each week he has us checking our Bibles to look up the verse written in the black out under his eyes. This past Saturday night it was:
Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
What a blessed reminder for each of us. Win or lose, success or victory, troubles or contentment . . . give thanks! That verse is preceded by:
Be joyful always; pray continually; verses 16-17 of 1 Thessalonians 5
Whew! I needed that!
1. Be joyful always! – Always! Am I attracting others to Jesus through a joy-filled attitude? Okay, maybe that needs a little work.
2. Pray continually! – Continually! Am I constantly aware of the Lord’s precious presence, and the gift He gives me in allowing me into the throne room of His grace.
3. Give thanks in all circumstances! – All circumstances! That REALLY needs some work.
4. This is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus! – God’s will for me! However, He has not left me alone to accomplish His will; in Christ Jesus, He gives me all that is needed to accomplish it. Thanks be to God!
Our Heavenly Father teaches us in some of the most interesting ways. Who would have ever thought that a young man sporting a helmet and throwing a pig-skin would be the one to remind me of my Father’s will.
October – my favorite month! Celebrations! Crisp air! Football!
