“And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
– Colossians 3:17 (Holman Christian Standard)

Game planning is not the same for every opponent. Somewhere on every coaches’ schedule is a team that is not only talented, but also has the reputation for being good over a long period of time. In major league baseball it could be the New York Yankees; in the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers or Boston Celtics come to mind; in college football, we think of Alabama or Ohio State. Not only do we have to get our players ready to play against the competition, we must prepare them to take on the reputation of the name itself. Just saying the name Yankees, Celtics or Crimson Tide can strike fear in an opponent’s heart. The name Jesus commands attention too!

We struggle daily with difficult decisions. We are in a constant battle over right and wrong. When making these decisions, we should ask ourselves, can I do this in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? Would this glorify Him? Would I want to be doing it when Jesus comes back again? These decisions could apply to the words we speak or the actions we take. To say we are doing something in the name of Jesus is powerful stuff! We had better be sure we mean it before we bring our Lord and Savior’s name into the picture. There is no name as powerful and no name Satan fears than that of Jesus Christ. We have taken a major step toward obedience when we learn to do everything for the glory of His name.

Heavenly Father, I want to live for You, but I am weak. Help me to understand that You are always there for me when I call Your name. Use me Lord and will give You the glory. Amen.