With a trip to the Super Bowl on the line, four teams compete in the Conference Championship games this Sunday. Being so close to the NFL's ultimate game is undoubtedly a big deal for everyone involved.
All week they've been preparing for their opponents, while also dealing with numerous media obligations, continuous attention from the fans, and countless congratulatory phone calls.
When you throw in the added pressure that comes from a game with this magnitude, players have been navigating through plenty of responsibilities.
During a press conference this week, Philadelphia Eagles' head coach Doug Pederson shared this encouraging message for his team: “You just have to stay grounded in the moment. Block out the clutter, block out the noise and focus on today.”
Although this may sound cliche or fall into the category of “coachspeak,” there is actually some worthwhile truth behind it - not only for the Eagles, but for us us well.
What if we decide to “stay grounded in the moment” and “focus on today,” instead of allow the long to-do list or our many pressures overwhelm our thoughts? Or how about if we don’t let our problems and struggles seem so big, but rather focus on how big God is...and how willing He is to help us through them?
We can relate to the Eagles in our own way because all of us battle some kind of “clutter” or “noise” in our lives. Outside forces flood in daily, and voices clamoring for our attention try to steal our focus.
But, when we block out the “noise” by keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, we can hear His voice more clearly and center our lives on what’s most important.
The Bible says in Matthew 6:33-34 (AMP), "But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness , and all these things will be given to you also.
“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
As the Eagles try to stay on track, and avoid being distracted by “clutter” from the outside world, we can have a similar mindset by clinging to Colossians 3:1-2 (ESV):
"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.”
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray that I’d keep my eyes on Jesus, focus on today, and set my mind on things above. Please help me to block out the noise, so I can hear You clearly. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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