Key Bible Verse: "Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not!" (Luke 12:25). Bonus Reading: Luke 12:22-26

I look around the locker room and see my players trying to get into the "zone." I've worked hard to get them prepared, but the team has the pregame jitters! Maybe they think they aren't as talented as their opponent. Or they lack confidence in the game plan. Maybe they don't want to look bad in front of all those fans and media. Or they're nervous that they won't live up to their own expectations. Whatever, the result is worry and a lack of focus.

All of us who've competed know that pit-of-the-stomach feeling. Sometimes we're not even sure if it's fear or excitement, whether we should scream or cry. The men around Jesus had the jitters, too. Like us, they had anxiety about everyday life. But in [today's Bonus Reading], Jesus put the "game" in proper perspective for His followers. He told them that if God takes care of the needs of ravens, He'll also take care of those worth much more to Him than birds.

Jesus went on to remind His disciples that worrying is wasted energy. Then, in case they were still tempted to worry, He went further, proving God's faithfulness by willingly taking their sins to the cross!

So why should we worry about our game?

—Michael Hill in Heart of a Coach

My Response: On what can I focus to replace my fears?

Thought to Apply: Worry is like a rocking chair; it gives you something to do, but doesn't get you anywhere.—REGGIE WHITE (football defensive end)

Adapted from Heart of a Coach (Regal, 2005) by permission.

Chorus for the Week

You are my hiding place.
You always fill my heart with songs
of deliverance, whenever I am afraid.
I will trust in you, I will trust in you.
Let the weak say I am strong in the strength of the Lord.
—Michael Ledner (©1981, CCCM Music, administered by Maranatha! Music)

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