With March Madness quickly approaching, we continue to see closer and harder fought games in college basketball. As the intensity rises, boxing out, diving for loose balls, and tight defense all become extremely important for a team to secure the close wins.
When players stand around on defense during games, and make no effort to dive on the floor or fight for a rebound, I have to question their true passion.
Also, when good offensive players who love to hit threes disappear to the other side of the floor, I get especially frustrated. Are they playing to win a championship or are they just there to hit some shots and receive the applause?
The teams that have players who are willing to put forth effort in the little things, and do whatever it takes, are the ones that keep on winning – especially when teams are so evenly matched this season.
A player’s effort and attitude on the court ultimately reveal his heart, love, and motivation. There is a distinct difference between the players that leave it all out there and those that hold back.
If a player is driven to win a championship, execute his coach’s game plan, and sacrifice for the team, he is playing for something much bigger than himself.
In our own lives, we have jobs, tasks, and responsibilities that reveal our motivation and love. Are we showing a maximum effort and a passionate attitude?
As followers of Jesus, we must constantly remind ourselves that our efforts don’t have to be in our own strength or for our own glory. If our motivation in our work is to accomplish God’s purposes and show Him our love, then we stop standing around and start “diving on the floor for loose balls.”
The Bible says in Colossians 3:23 (ESV), “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men…”
The amplified version challenges us even further: “Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men…”
In approaching our jobs and other responsibilities, let’s consider our effort, attitude, and motivation. Are we filled with laziness and negativity or are we inspired because we’re doing everything for a bigger purpose and from the soul?
Today, let’s allow our love for God to shine through in how we attack each task. Let’s be motivated through the power and passion from Jesus to give maximum effort…even if that means diving on the floor.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for not always giving my best effort and having a bad attitude about certain tasks. Please continue to remind me that I’m not working for man or myself, but for You and Your glory. Please help me approach each day recognizing that passion and power are always available through Jesus. In His name I pray, Amen.
