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

Revelation 10 – Certain Victory

In chapter 10, before the seventh trumpet sounds, there is a timeout or interlude that spans Revelation 10:1 to 11:14. This allows John to 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 assuring them that He hasn’t forgotten them. They need their confidence rebuilt with the knowledge that they will ultimately be victorious. 

Part of the encouragement God provides is His game plan for the future, though He has withheld some details 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 and the rewards He promises.

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

Bible Memory Verse – “Then the seventh angel sounded, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He will reign forever and ever.” Revelation 11:15 (LSB)

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute: Timeout

Our featured book this week is The Athlete’s Topical Bible (Scripture for Competition, Character, and Coaching) compiled by Gordon Thiessen. This book was designed for athletes, coaches, parents, and sports ministry leaders. This expanded edition also includes foundational studies on key Christian beliefs, practical coaching topics, and helpful tools for studying the Bible on your own.

Click HERE to review. 

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