UNPACK This...Courageous CommunicationSýnishorn

The Uncomfortable Links Course

As an avid golf fan, there's nothing better than watching a tournament played on a links course.

On a typical golf course in the United States, golfers are often presented with a long course that requires a driver and a high-arching iron into the green (commonly called “target golf”).

But, when they head to the U.K. to play links courses, they often face rain, howling winds, and dried-out courses. Players are forced to think more creatively and embrace different types of obstacles.

The golfers must play the course in a way they’re not always comfortable and many aren’t considered great champions until they conquer links courses.

As Christians, we face situations we’re not always comfortable with. It’s easy to talk about Jesus and His love at our “home course” (in church or at a Bible study), but how do we react when we work with people opposed to faith? How do we respond when hanging out with buddies who live differently than we do? What do we say when God calls us to serve Him in another country?

Mark 16:15 tells us of Jesus’ command: “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’”

Spreading His name and His love is something we can all improve on and be more proactive about. 1 Peter 3:15 offers this encouragement: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

My pastor once placed a sign near the exit of our church that read, “You are now entering the mission field.” This is a great reminder that we, like golfers, have work to do even if it requires uncomfortable situations.

Today, let’s embrace the challenge of looking for opportunities to verbally communicate the gospel and exhibit a Christ-like attitude in our everyday lives.

I’m Josh Carpenter, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray that You will help me spread Your love in all situations – even in challenging times. Help me fight the good fight and openly share Your Word. I pray these things in the name of Jesus, Amen.

For more sports and faith devotionals, visit unpackinit.com .