UNPACK This...Placing Trust in God's ProcessSample

Where Are The Wins?

The Baltimore Ravens entered the 2024 season with high expectations thanks to their history of success and their collection of key weapons on offense and defense.

But despite their talented team, the Ravens started the season 0-2. Baltimore successfully ran the football, but their dominance on the ground didn't lead to wins.

Speaking of his team's disappointing start, head coach John Harbaugh said, "We've got to keep pounding the rock, and the rock is going to crack. That's our job to keep pounding, not get discouraged, not think all is for nothing. Continue to work and our reward will be out there in our future."

The Ravens' approach to difficulty can encourage us as we parallel the concept to our lives. We often feel like we're doing the right things but ask ourselves, "Where are the wins?"

Sometimes, we know we're doing what we're supposed to, but the results aren't happening, and giving up becomes a temptation.

However, what if the answer is to "keep pounding" and "trust that our reward will be out there in our future?"

As followers of Jesus, we know our true reward is eternal, so while we're here on earth, we endure with obedience, faith, and hope.

When we pray and feel like we're not getting an answer, we must "keep pounding."

James 5:16 says, "…The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results."

When things get tough in our daily lives, let's not forget that "our reward will be out there in our future."

The key is sticking to Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Today, let's build our lives on "The Rock" and trust Jesus. Let's keep doing the right things and remember that He is our ultimate reward and all we need.

I'm Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, give me the strength to keep doing the right things even when I'm not experiencing the desired results. I want to draw near to You, work heartily for You, and remain faithful to You. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.