A Change on the Court

I was playing in a volleyball tournament, trying to apply what Scripture commands us Christians to do: seek the Lord, not just in our quiet times, but in every aspect of our lives. That principle goes along with the goal to not be conformed to this world, but to be conformed in the image of Christ Jesus. 

As the game began, I began to talk with the Lord right there on the court. I started by telling Him where I was at, what I was feeling, how I didn't want to lose the game. I was completely honest with Him and told Him that I was playing to impress the cute guy who had just walked through the door. I told Him how I didn't want to let down my teammates, and I shared how I wanted to impress the other girls on the opposing team.

But another thought came to my mind. I remembered that Scripture says in Galatians 1:10 (NIV), "Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." I prayed right then that the Lord would change my heart and my desire for playing; that my goal would be conformed to His own, and that I would become more like Christ by playing this sport for Him, His way. 

We ended up losing the game, but this loss was different than all the previous ones. I felt a difference in my playing. I'd let go of fear. It had given way to the perfect love that casts out fear (1 John 4:18), which was entering my heart.

I prayed to my Father that night, win or lose, "I am Yours." I prayed that my attitude, actions, speech and the intensity of my play would be a reflection of my love for my God and my King.  Despite the loss on the court, the Lord created a victory in my life: my conforming to be more like His wonderful and beautiful Son.