The NCAA canceled its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments during the pandemic crisis of 2020. Even as I write this, the plan is to scrap every major American sports league, from the NBA to MLB. The site of some state high school tournament games played in mostly empty arenas replaced the normal March Madness. Never in sports has there been such a period of uncertainty and panic about the future.

Acts 19 – Depend on God

Following Paul’s time in Thessalonica and Athens, he traveled to Corinth and finally Ephesus, where, in Acts 19, he also faced uncontrollable circumstances and an uncertain future.

Paul remained faithful to the gospel by telling the Ephesians they were foolish for making and worshipping idols. The silversmiths in Ephesus were fearful of losing their livelihood as they built their idols, so they opposed Paul and his message.

When you’re facing an uncertain future, remember that God knows the future and is always in control. Paul didn’t fret over God’s loss of control with his disturbance. He was convinced that God knew the future and was in control.

No doubt, Paul wanted to enter the crowded theater and help his companions when they were facing conflict, but with such a large crowd, it was clear this wasn’t the smartest course of action. Rather than panicking, he remained calm and allowed the circumstances to unfold (19:30-31).

When Paul allowed the circumstances to happen, the Lord used an unnamed town clerk to calm the crowd and dismiss them (19:35-41). God was bigger than either the large crowd or wealthy leaders who opposed Paul’s church-planting efforts.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete don’t panic when circumstances are beyond their control. They depend on God rather than trying to manipulate the conditions. When facing an uncontrollable situation, they remember God has a sovereign grip on the future.

Journaling helps you understand and respond to the Bible. As you journal, use the acronym HEAR to Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond to what you have read in the reading plan.

Bible Memory Verse – But I do not make my life of any account nor dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:24 LSB

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute on God’s Promotion