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Q. What do you mean by no-decision mode?

A. In 1991 the Atlanta Braves were in the World Series against the Minnesota Twins. In Game 7, I pitched 8-plus innings of shutout ball against Jack Morris. We ultimately lost in the eleventh inning, and I received a no-decision. Unfortunately, this was fast becoming the theme of my life: "No-decision."

I'd attended Baseball Chapel and read the Bible some. I'd listened to many people share what it meant to have a relationship with Christ and the joy that comes from serving and following Him. I'd prayed "the sinner's prayer" several times, thinking I was becoming a Christian. My actions, though, still pointed to a no-decision. I was consumed with what people thought of me and I received my significance from baseball and not a relationship with Christ. My prayers had been a religious ritual that weren't from the heart. I wasn't saved.

I finally asked myself: "If I know what it takes to have a close, personal walk with Christ, what prevents me from doing it?" The answer I gave changed what I am for all eternity. I truly trusted Jesus to forgive my sins, committed my life to Jesus, and quit trying to do things my own way.

What would you say to those on the "no-decision" road?

Don't settle for an empty life with no growing relationship to Jesus. Instead, confess your sins to Him—who lived without sin and died to take our sins on Himself—and allow Him to cleanse you of them.

John Smoltz is a pitcher for the Atlanta Braves.

Adapted from: Sports Spectrum (6/99) by permission.

Copyright © 2002 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

I thank you, God, that although Christ is the only way to You, You draw men to Him in many ways.

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