Mark Appel was destined for baseball greatness. The former Stanford pitcher was selected No. 1 overall in 2013 by the Houston Astros. Many thought it was only a matter of time before he reached the major leagues. But Appel’s career didn’t go as expected. He never made it to the big leagues. He faced difficult, unexpected circumstances that could have left him bitter and disappointed. Instead, God showed him he had everything he needed in life through this Bible verse: “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:12-14).

Exodus 6-7 – Rebellion

While God softened Appel’s heart, Pharaoh repeatedly refused to obey God’s commands to allow the Israelites to leave Egypt. Yet, the Lord continued to give him opportunities to repent. Eventually, however, the Lord gave him over to his hardness of heart, allowing him to remain in stubborn rebellion. (Exodus 7:3).

The same principle holds true today. We live in the day of grace, when salvation is freely available to all who believe, but that day will not last forever. Resisting God’s grace is dangerous. Each time someone refuses to repent, repentance becomes more difficult. “For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2).

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete believe the Lord uses hardship to further His purposes in their lives. He uses difficult circumstances to lead people to repentance and salvation and to make them more like His Son, Jesus Christ.

Bible Verse: “But, indeed, for this reason I have caused you to stand, in order to show you My power and in order to recount My name through all the earth.” Exodus 9:16 (LSB)