NFL teams are getting a first look at some of their new players while participating in their offseason OTAs. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, teams have certain expectations based on their rosters, coaching staff, and record from last year, which determines their perspective.
Usually, teams find themselves either in a rebuilding stage where patience is required because of a new coach and a young roster…or in a “win-now” mode that requires immediate action. Their choices during free agency and the draft lined up with one of those two strategies.
The teams aggressive in free agency by adding or re-signing veterans and in a “win-now” mode are the Bucs, Bills, Ravens, Colts, Chiefs, and Seahawks. They approached the off-season with the mindset that this is their time to capitalize on their “window of opportunity” to compete for a Super Bowl.
Based on the current construction of their roster, they were looking to add a piece here and there to enhance their team, but they need those players to contribute right away.
This mentality leads to teams going all-in and being willing to pay for or retain a higher-priced free agent if they believe he can make an immediate difference.
Fans understand the different cycles of a franchise and realize patience is key during a rebuild. But when we recognize our team is doing whatever they can to win now, not delay, and not hold back resources, there’s an overall excitement.
Likewise, as followers of Jesus, we go through seasons of waiting and relying on patience, but there are also moments when we must decide to have a “win-now” mentality. We have to go all-in and not hold back when He leads us in the direction He wants us to go.
God continuously gives us opportunities to bring Him glory by honoring and serving Him, growing closer to Him, and spreading His Word to others. Unfortunately, too often we pass on them or we don’t recognize the need for urgency and tell ourselves we’ll address them later.
However, when we overcome fear and procrastination by stepping out in faith, we know God will equip us and strengthen us to do what He’s asking us to do.
Whether the Holy Spirit is prompting us to make personal changes, start a Bible study, go on a mission trip, talk to the person at work, forgive someone, or pursue a different job, we must remember to have a “win-now” attitude instead of delaying and missing our window of opportunity.
The Bible says in Psalm 90:12 (ESV), “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”
Psalm 119:60 (NLT) says: “I will hurry, without delay, to obey Your commands.”
James 4:17 (NLT) reminds us, “Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.”
Today, let’s be encouraged to feel a sense of urgency and excitement to obey God and follow Him as we make the “win-now” decisions He’s leading us to make.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I place my faith and trust in You to make it clear when I need to do something without delay. Help me recognize the many great opportunities to serve You and glorify You with my life, and make the most of them with great wisdom. Please give me the strength and confidence to implement the “win-now” strategy. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What is something you’re dragging your feet about right now?
How does having a win-now mentality reveal the depth of your faith?
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