Last night we witnessed another dominating performance by the Golden State Warriors, and were wowed again by their two stars, Kevin Durant and Steph Curry.

Although it doesn’t seem like the Cavs have any answers to stop them, they will hopefully implement some changes to make this a more competitive series.

There is a lot on the line in these NBA Finals, and the coaching for both teams is crucial. Rejoined with head coach Steve Kerr last night (after his health kept him away from the sideline during the playoffs), the Warriors received a big boost from his leadership.

As I think about the coaching, adjustments, and mindset of both teams with the Warriors leading the series 2-0, I realize the importance of affirmation and simple reminders.

Over the next couple of days, both teams will be reminded how they got to the Finals, how talented they are, and what it takes to win. Of course the players already know this, but their coaches have to tell them over and over again so they don’t lose sight of the keys to winning.

The Cavs, in particular, have to be told not to turn over the ball, to get back on defense, and remember they beat the Warriors last year after being down 0-2.

On the other side, the Warriors have to be reminded not to let their emotions get the best of them…or get overconfident with a 2-0 lead that can quickly vanish.

As followers of Jesus, we also need to be affirmed while embracing simple reminders. We can’t lose sight of the truth by panicking when we’re “down 0-2” or becoming arrogant when we’re “up 2-0.”

When we forget how deeply loved we are by God and how much grace we’ve been shown through Jesus, we can easily get off track or get discouraged.

When we start to think we’re self-sufficient and begin to believe our own greatness is leading to some sort of success, we need to be reminded of our deep need for God’s power and sustaining mercy.

So today as we begin another week, whether we’re “down 0-2 or up 2-0,” let’s be affirmed by being followers of Jesus…and allow the simple reminders of God’s truth to be at the forefront of our minds.

As we think about the coaches writing down the “Keys to Game 3” on their whiteboards, let’s consider these verses to be the “Keys” in our own lives:

Proverbs 3:6 (NLT) – “Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”

John 8:12 (NLT) – “Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow Me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT) – “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”

Galatians 4:6 (NLT) – “And because we are His children, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, ‘Abba, Father.’”

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray I would continuously be reminded of how much I’m loved by You, and how much I need Your grace and mercy each day. Help me not to forget the new life I have because of Jesus, and not lose sight of the importance of seeking Your will each day. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.