Preparation is Key

In 1982, the Miami Dolphins faced the New England Patriots in Foxboro, Mass. Snow began to fall during the game, and by the fourth quarter, the wintry conditions had contributed to a scoreless tie.

But late in the game, the Patriots drove down the field and came within field-goal range, where a successful kick would likely win the game. The New England coach ordered a snowplow to clear a spot for the kicking team, enabling the kicker to set his foot firmly on the turf. As a result, he kicked the game-winning field goal.

Tremendous preparation goes into competing at high levels. Still, many of the variables associated with winning, such as weather conditions or travel situations, are outside the coach’s control. Experienced coaches prepare for the factors that are within their control and accept those that are not.

As Christians, we are faced with the reality of uncontrollable factors when we share our faith with others. We can say all the right words at all the right times, and yet we may never see someone make a decision for Christ.

Even so, we must take every opportunity to testify to Christ by living out our faith with integrity, trusting that God’s Spirit will work according to His purposes.