ONE: FCA Reading Plan For CompetitorsSample

Run the Play!

By Rex Stump

READY:

“As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.’” – Mark 4:35

SET:

“Run the play!” These simple yet piercing words encourage athletes to obey and trust the instructions of the coach. In the moments that follow, coaches watch and hope that the athletes trust their words and execute the play.  

Jesus and His disciples had finished teaching the masses and were retreating across the Sea of Galilee. Without warning, a terrible storm rocked their boat—and their world! Where was Jesus? He was resting like a baby in the midst of a mini hurricane! Where were the disciples? They were scrambling, panicking and wondering if Jesus cares whether or not they sink!

Read Mark 4:35 again, which is just before the storm. Jesus didn't say, “Let's cross the lake and sink,” or, “Let's cross halfway.” He said, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” He called the play in the huddle, and it was up to the disciples to run it. Get in the boat, sail across the lake, exit the boat. But when the storm appeared, the sound of the wind and waves deafened the words of Jesus. 

That happens in life. God tells us one thing, but when life gets hard, we hear the storm, the doubters and the evil one before we hear God's words.

When you read the Words of God, realize He’s calling the play. I encourage you to hear God, trust Him, and act on those Words of truth! 

GO:

1. Which do you tend to hear more: crisis words or Christ's Words?

2. Do you trust the Words of God and act on them daily?

3. Recall a time when Jesus sailed with you through a storm, and share it with a friend. 

WORKOUT:

Isaiah 50:9-10

Proverbs 3:5-6

2 Timothy 3:14-17

OVERTIME:

“Father, thank You for being with me in all the storms of life. Forgive me for not trusting You fully. Help me to trust You and execute the plays You give me!”