As a young adult, I joined a church league softball team. I typically played third base but was assigned to first base or other positions as needed. As a rule, our coach expected me to swing as hard as I could when I batted. Occasionally, he told me to bunt. Sometimes, he urged me to run as fast as my legs would go. But at other times, he cautioned me to stay on base.
All our players spent time in the game. Generally, we used that time productively. Occasionally, however, we wasted time complaining, wishing for different positions and hurting the entire team. We grumbled about practice, our coach’s calls, the hot weather, and our schedule—not the best example for nonbelievers watching from the stands.
Most games were over before we knew it. Nine innings, with an occasional overtime, do not last long.
Life is similar. God has given us positions and a limited time to play them. We can perform our positions well—including the ones we didn’t choose—prepare for and practice for our positions, make the most of our circumstances, and adjust our schedules to meet the needs before us. Or we can spend our time complaining and wishing for different assignments, requirements, surroundings, and expectations. In so doing, we hurt ourselves and others, particularly those we serve and lead in ministry.
So, follow God’s leading to find purpose in every position, play well, and work as a unified team member with other believers. The game of life will be over before you know it.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay and cherylholt.)
Diana Derringer is author of Beyond Bethlehem and Calvary: 12 Dramas for Christmas, Easter, and More! She writes for several publications and enjoys traveling with her husband and serving as a friendship family to international university students. She offers life lessons from English expressions at dianaderringer.com.