“Therefore since we also have such a large crowd of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured the cross and despised the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.”
– Hebrews 12:1-2

The forecast for Friday night’s game was rain! To a football coach, that means making some major adjustments to the week’s practice schedule. There’s something about the threat of wet weather that makes us a little nervous in our preparation. In my experience, the threat of poor weather conditions usually forces me to think less about game planning for the opponent and more about my own team’s execution. Being solid in the fundamentals of blocking and tackling or simply holding onto the football take on a greater importance when playing on a soggy field. This certainly isn’t all bad. Isn’t it interesting that a little rain can force us to shift our focus back to where it should have been all along?

I have experienced this same principle in my spiritual walk. Too often I become consumed with everything happening around me. I’m trying to be a good spouse and parent. I’m working hard to have quality quiet time with the Lord and pay the bills. Sometimes it’s just more than I can handle and the weight is slowing me down. In times like these, God always seems to send a little rain to help me readjust my focus. The soggy field He sends my way usually forces me to think less about the big picture and more about the fundamentals necessary to be in a right relationship with Him. To put it in simple terms, it might take a little rain to help get your eyes back on Jesus. If that’s what it takes, I say “Bring it on!”

Heavenly Father, forgive me for losing focus of what is really important—being in relationship with You. Thank You for the rain that forces me to turn my eyes back to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.