The NFL is still a sport that requires a certain level of physicality between players on both sides of the ball. However, there has been a steady trend of changes and rules that resulted in offenses being favored over defenses.
In recent years, we've seen many high scoring games and eye-popping offensive stats while quarterbacks continue to be the stars. The style of today's game is now less physical as the defense continues to be limited from making as much contact with the QB as they need to.
Defenders quickly get flagged for roughing the passer if they hit too hard or when it's considered a late hit. Despite the shift toward limiting what the defense can do, they still understand their best chance for success is consistently making contact with the QB throughout the game.
Although the league has made it harder for them, their strategy is still to make contact with the QB as often as they can. The defense knows that when they do, the more effective and impactful they become. That's why teams spend top draft picks on players who are strong pass rushers and know how to get to the quarterback.
I believe there's a parallel to how we approach our prayer lives. There has been a shift toward more distractions and excuses we make for why our prayer life is limited. However, we know that when we make contact with God throughout the day, and regularly draw close in communication, life-changing prayer occurs.
Even though there are distractions that try to prevent us from engaging with God in prayer, we must know our best strategy is to pursue Him relentlessly.
Matthew 26:41 (ESV) urges us to "Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The Spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NLT) encourages us to "Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere."
Continuously connecting with God in prayer allows us to become stronger and more effective. However, with so much noise and an emphasis on worldly things throughout the day, we struggle to make the kind of contact we need with God. Our constant interruptions cause us to forget to keep praying.
Colossians 4:2 (AMP) gives us this challenge: "Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving."
Psalm 116:1-2 says, "I love the Lord because He hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath."
Not only does our own defense against the enemy become more powerful and impactful when we make contact with God, but we become filled with hope, confidence, and joy.
Lastly, Romans 15:13 (NIV) offers this prayer: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
Today as we look to tackle our prayer life, let’s be encouraged that God is inviting us to contact Him and wants us to remain connected to Him. Let’s turn and run toward Him as often as we can.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the access I have to You because of Jesus. I pray I wouldn’t get so busy and distracted during my day that I lose contact with You. My hope is found in You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What are your biggest hindrances to prayer?
How have you seen prayer change you?
What verse above resonates with you the most?
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