During the 2019 season, Ryan Tannehill was in the seventh year of his NFL career, playing quarterback for the Tennessee Titans when the unexpected happened. His father suddenly died. While Ryan knew his father was in a better place, it was still a tough week to prepare for the next game, but his faith sustained him. “I pray before every game,” Tannehill said. “I spend time with God before I get to the stadium, and then when I lace up my cleats, I thank God for the opportunity to go out there and attempt to glorify Him. In my life, the times I’ve been really consistent, spending quality time daily with God in prayer, are the times I flourish the most.”

Ezra 1-2 – Renewal

No doubt, it was unexpected when God brought judgment upon the city of Jerusalem through the destruction of the temple of the Lord. However, God brought the eventual restoration of the temple and the return of the exiles, as recorded in Ezra.

The Book of Ezra highlights the mysterious cooperation between God’s sovereign will and the choices of his people. Even a Persian king recognized the power and sovereignty of the God of the universe. Like the Jews, we should respond to the opportunity God provides us with joy and gratitude for allowing us to be part of His work.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete thank God for the opportunities that He provides within His divine plan and works to make the most of them.

Bible Memory Verse – “For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.” Ezra 7:10  (LSB)