Yesterday proved to be another intriguing day in the NFL. Just when we thought some teams were done, or headed in the wrong direction, they responded by getting a nice win.
ESPN.com has an article up right now titled, “Biggest Beakthrough for Every NFL Team Through Week 4.”
They talk about the Jets’ defense turning things around by allowing only two touchdowns in the last eight-plus quarters after giving up 66 points in the first two games. That breakthrough has led to two straight wins.
The Texans are mentioned as having a big breakthrough on offense after scoring just 13 points in Week 2, and 76 points in their last two games.
Just when we thought the Eagles’ running game was going to be a non-factor, the article points out that they’ve turned things around by averaging over 200 yards in the last two weeks.
The Panthers’ offense finally clicked yesterday, as Cam Newton broke through for 316 yards passing, and also effectively ran the ball.
As we witnessed many teams make breakthroughs in Week 4, I’m sure many of us woke up today hoping for our own breakthrough. Maybe we’ve been waiting for things to turn around at work, or to get on the same page with our spouse, or to experience improved health.
Whatever it may be, there is probably something we wish would look different this week than it did last week.
Many times the most important thing we’re waiting for is a spiritual breakthrough for ourselves or someone we care about. We want to experience freedom from a stronghold…the ability to let go of our past…answers to our prayers…or forgiveness.
When we’ve been struggling with something for awhile and change seems impossible, that’s usually when our faith is revealed. With one phone call or one decision away from a life-changing breakthrough, we shouldn’t give up. The key is trusting in God’s power and ability to move – even in the bleakest of situations.
For followers of Jesus, 1 John 4:4 (NLT) reminds us Who we belong to and what we have access to:
“But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.”
Our God is greater than anything we’re up against today, so let’s continue to rely on Him and go to Him in persistent prayer.
Luke 18:1 (NLT) also encourages us through the parable of the persistent widow: “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up.”
We know life doesn’t always go according to our own plans, but we serve a good and all-powerful God who cares for His children. He provides amazing breakthroughs when we simply place our hope and trust in Him.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, sometimes I feel like I’m hitting a wall spiritually and my prayers aren’t being answered. I pray I would trust You as I wait for a breakthrough, and that my faith would be strengthened in the meantime. I know You can do anything and I thank you in advance for the breakthroughs You’ll provide. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
