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Key Bible Verse: I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with … plenty or little (Philippians 4:12). Bonus Reading: 2 Timothy 4:16–18

On my forty-first birthday, September 16, 1999, I squeezed in a quick trip home for the celebration. The Mets had an off day and we were close enough to Orlan-do that I was able to jump on a plane and make it to central Florida for a few hours. It was my first birthday party at home in several years.

As we sat at the table enjoying a great home-cooked dinner with my family and a few close friends, someone suggested that we "go around the table and tell Orel what we appreciate about him"—verbal birthday presents.

Before I could object, they started in. When we got to our son Jordan, who'd just turned 11, without looking up, he whispered, "The thing I love about Dad is the way he gets over bad things."

No one spoke. Jordan's words had struck a chord with everyone. Especially me. Unlike most sons, Jordan often saw his dad's mistakes as a batboy from the dugout or even in video replays on SportsCenter! I knew that his words were about the importance of maintaining balance and integrity in spite of adverse circumstances. He'd noticed my honest attempt to not bring my work home—especially my failures.

—Orel Hershiser in Between the Lines

My Response: Is the way I get over bad things honoring to God?

Thought to Apply: Mishaps are like knives, that either serve us or cut us, as we grasp them by the blade or the handle.
—James Russell Lowell (author and diplomat, 19th century)

Adapted from: Between the Lines (Warner, 2001).

Prayer for the Week

Wise Father, keep me from getting sidetracked by setbacks. Instead, prod me to grow by overcoming them.

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