Yesterday's NFL "game of the day" was probably between the Cowboys and Packers. With the teams having such a great rivalry, the game proved to be another instant classic.
The Cowboys had the lead for the majority of the game until the 4th quarter when they went back and forth. Toward the end, Dallas took the lead back 31-28 after a 17-play drive that resulted in Dak Prescott running a QB-keeper for the touchdown.
They put themselves in a strong position to win, but there was still 1:13 left on the game clock. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers took the field knowing Dallas had opened the door to at least attempt a field goal to tie the game.
The Packers were able to get some big plays and march down the field in just enough time for an impressive throw and catch from Rodgers to Davante Adams for the game-winning touchdown.
This was another reminder of what Aaron Rodgers is capable of doing when given an opportunity to win the game. The second-guessing for the Cowboys today is all about the amount of time they left on the clock.
Afterall, why would they give Rodgers just enough time to do what he does so well? The Cowboys opened the door for him to snatch the win away from them, and that’s exactly what he did.
This scenario reminds me of what we face on a daily basis. We don’t always like to talk about it, but as followers of Jesus, we are up against an enemy every day. Satan is real and he’s working to kill, steal, destroy, and divide us.
We have to be careful and aware of the opportunities we give him to get the win against us. We can’t “leave any time on the clock,” or in other words, leave the door open even a crack for him to do what he does so well.
One way the Bible talks about giving the devil an opportunity is when we’re angry. That emotion gives him a foothold, which can lead us to make costly decisions that are harmful to us and others.
Ephesians 4:26-27 (AMP) says, "Be angry , yet do not sin; do not let your anger last until the sun goes down. And do not give the devil an opportunity .”
Maybe the Cowboys were unaware that their decision to score too quickly would give Rodgers enough time to come back and win the game. Unfortunately for them, that one opportunity turned out to be very costly.
Today, let's remember the opportunity that anger provides the enemy to work against us. Instead of opening the door even a crack, let's rely on Jesus’ grace and strength to help us defeat anger, resentment, and bitterness.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know there is victory found in Jesus! Please help me recognize when anger and bitterness are creeping in...and give me strength to not let it fester and win. I pray that I would fully rely on You during my battles. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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