Are They for Real?

As we get down to the final few weeks of the NFL regular season, we begin to get an idea of which teams will make the playoffs. The discussion then becomes which teams are true Super Bowl “contenders,” and which ones are only “pretenders.”

Most people say the Patriots, Seahawks, and Cowboys are contenders, but there are questions raised about teams like the Raiders, Lions, and Falcons. Analysts wonder if Detroit is for real and are curious about how great the Raiders truly are.

Throughout the season we believe in teams that go on a winning streak, but when injuries happen or surprising losses take place, we begin to doubt their legitimacy as a Super Bowl contender. After some adversity, we question that the team is real and maybe not as good as we once thought.

When it comes to our faith, how often do we question if God's real or not? Do we question His goodness when adversity strikes? Do we start to wonder about His legitimacy when we don’t feel His presence? Do we second guess His greatness when He’s not doing what we think He should be doing according to our own understanding?

If we’re honest with ourselves, we've had moments of doubt and weakness in our faith. I believe during those times we must focus on all of the ways He’s revealed His power and love throughout our lives. We must remember who we used to be before we knew Him, and reflect on all of the transformations that have taken place in our lives. The doubts will quickly vanish when we recollect all of the situations He’s come through for us and shown us how real and faithful He truly is.

The Bible tells us that sometimes all it takes to eliminate the doubt is to look around us. Romans 1:20 (NLT) says, "Forever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.”

God has made Himself evident, but sometimes we need a reminder when life gets tough. When we struggle in our awareness of His presence, let’s rely on Jeremiah 29:13 (ESV): "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.”

Today, let’s be encouraged that God is real, legitimately loving, all-powerful, great, and faithful. Let’s keep seeking Him with all of our hearts. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I admit that sometimes I allow doubt or questions to fill my mind about You. I pray that in those moments I would seek You and remember who You are and what You’ve done. I know You’re real and good and faithful, so forgive me for the times I forget that. Thank you for Your grace and Your love. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.