The Indianapolis Colts battled back from a 21-point deficit against the New England Patriots in their November 30, 2003, game. The Colts found themselves down by four points with less than three minutes to play and moved the ball deep inside Patriots’ territory. They had a first down and goal at the twoyard line. However, without their goal-line offense, the Colts were stopped short on four straight plays, preserving the eighth straight win for New England. It was an impressive goal-line stand by the Patriots’ defense.

 

 

Sometimes the challenge of standing firm in our faith in Jesus Christ can be like a goal-line stand. It is tough to stand our ground in a world that is constantly pushing us in the direction opposite to Jesus’ teaching. Others perceive that we somehow think we are better than everyone else if we don’t go along with the crowd. Also, believing that Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to a right relationship with God (John 14:6) is widely criticized as intolerant.

 

 

We must daily take a stand for Christ and His message. This message deals with the truth and the righteousness that Paul wrote about to the Ephesians. Truth comes from knowing God’s Word and righteousness comes from living out truth. Taking a stand for truth and righteousness is a formidable task, just like facing first and goal from the two-yard line. But now is the time to step up and make a goal-line stand. Are you ready?