God is For Us by Guest Writer, Chris Bryant

I'm an unapologetic lifelong Atlanta Braves fan and have to admit I've enjoyed an "unexpected" first place run this season. The experts picked the Braves to finish in the middle of the pack. Their thought was the team would come into their own next year after the "youngsters" (in the minors) had some more time for seasoning. But one of the main reasons the team is ahead of schedule is that their low-key manager, Brian Snitker (a "lifer" in the Braves organization), has toiled for years as a player, scout, and manager in the minors. Snitker finally got his chance to run the ship two years ago. He has done a tremendous job and also has the loyalty of his players. When asked to explain the one key attribute Snitker brings to the table, first baseman, Freddie Freeman explained, "We really feel that no matter how things are going, Brian IS FOR US...he has our back and we have his support." It's a game-changer when guys can play with freedom and confidence, knowing their coach is in their corner - regardless of errors or losses. Snitker sees the best in his players and allows them to flourish. The Bible tells us that as followers of Jesus we have access to a Heavenly Father who IS FOR US and has our back. Romans 8:31-32 (NIV) says, "What, then shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all - how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?" When we hit the inevitable rough patch during the day or week, we need to dwell on the fact that no matter what we face, our heavenly Father is on our side. He's actively involved in guiding and directing our steps and always has our back. It's a game-changer when we can live with freedom and confidence, knowing the God of the universe cares about us and is in our corner - regardless of errors or losses. He always sees the best in us, which is Christ in us, and that truth should allow us to flourish. I'm Chris Bryant and you can unpack that! Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me and caring about me. Thank you for making a way for me to know You intimately through Jesus. I have great confidence and peace knowing You're on my side because we've been unified in Christ. It's in the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.