Timeouts are a crucial part of any basketball game and can be the difference between a win or a loss. As a basketball strategy, it can stop the other team’s momentum. When I coached basketball, if the opponent got hot and hit every shot, I almost always used a timeout to help rebuild my player’s confidence. It only takes a few minutes for a team to begin doubting themselves if the other team has made 10 quick points. The timeout usually calmed the crowd and would re-focus my players and perhaps cool the other team down.

Revelation 10 – Seventh Trumpet

In chapter 10, before the seventh trumpet sounds, there is a timeout or interlude, which stretches from Revelation 10:1 to 11:14. This lets John pause long enough to assimilate the amazing truths revealed to him. The timeout also encourages God’s people amid the horrible divine judgment. God comforts them by letting them know He hasn’t forgotten them. They needed their confidence to be rebuilt with the knowledge that they would ultimately be victorious.

Part of the encouragement God provides is His game plan for the future, but He has withheld some details that we don’t need to know. Though we can’t know all the hows, whens, and whys of His plan, we can trust Him and expect victory along with the rewards He promises.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete believe God hasn’t forgotten them, no matter how difficult their circumstances. They know He controls all events and protects His own.