The college basketball season is winding down and March Madness is right around the corner. These final games are becoming more intense as teams are fighting to make their case to get into the NCAA Tournament.

One of the biggest factors deciding close games is free throw shooting. It’s especially difficult for the road team players to be on the line when the home fans are cheering against them.

I can only imagine how a player must feel with seconds remaining and his team down one or two, while also being subjected to the crazy college basketball atmosphere.

In these moments, teammates and coaches are counting on the free throw shooter to hit both shots to tie or win the game. The pressure is all on him to remain calm, block out the noise, and knock down the shots. Teams that have players who shine in these moments are the ones that end up winning.

We may not have the opportunity to make two clutch free throws in a big game, but we do face ongoing pressure in our lives such as being a great parent or spouse…or making deadlines at work…or finishing projects we’ve committed to.

There is also ongoing financial pressure that can come from surprising bills, a job loss, or trying to keep up with a certain societal status.

Some pressure is unavoidable because of serious circumstances, trials, and difficulties, but how we view and handle it is key to not being overwhelmed.

The Bible says in James 1:3-5 (MSG), “You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get His help…”

As we recognize the pressure we’re under, we can ask God to help us remain calm, block out the noise, and “knock down the shots.” We can also rely on God to give us wisdom and strength to embrace pressure, and accept that our faith is being revealed and tested through it.

Today, let’s be reminded that all pressure to perform or earn God’s grace was removed the day Jesus died on the cross…and is now replaced with peace.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus and the freedom we find because of Him. Forgive me for the undue pressure I feel, and give me strength and wisdom to replace it with Your peace. Help me to understand You will use pressure-filled situations to grow my faith. Thank you for what You’re doing to change me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.