Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

Psalm 1:1-2

Have you ever been told you weren’t good enough for something, or made fun of for trying? That’s what happened to a girl who loved basketball growing up. She would practice every day, for hours and hours. During her 8th grade year, her coach would pick on her, put her down, and was about ready to cut her from the team. She stuck with it though, practicing and working her way to the starting lineup.

The highlight of that season came during the final game when she had the chance to shoot – and she scored to tie the game! The crowd went wild, the team went wild; it was amazing! Yes, the girl in this story was me, and yes, the joy still rushes over me to this day as I remember that moment.

When things got tough, I could have given up, quit, let the coach get the best of me. But my love for basketball was much stronger; it had to be. I don’t think I could have practiced so much and had the chance to make the team and feel the joy from making that shot, had I not truly loved the game.

Don’t let the sinful ways of others bring you down or cause you to join along with them. Your delight will come from focusing on God, trusting in Him and knowing that He is always with you. When we are faced with choices or challenges in life, look to God in His word and prayer. This is where we will find our delight, that feeling of making that perfect shot where the crowd goes wild!

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for always being with me. Help me to keep my eyes on You and remember to always come to You in prayer.

Daily Reading: Psalm 1-2

– Contributed by Heather Hoadley