“We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you His Gospel in the face of strong opposition.” — 1 Thessalonians 2:2
You Will Have Opposition
I arrive about two hours before tip-off to Rockets’ games and sit on the visitor’s side of the court as they are warming up. I do this so I can invite the visiting team to chapel. After they are done warming up and shooting around, I’ll greet them, shake their hands, and invite them to the service.
As I watch players warm up, I’m always amazed by their skill. I’ll see players make two-thirds or more of their shots from behind the 3-point line. I’ll see post players execute silky smooth post moves. But here’s what I’ve noticed: Once the game starts, their shooting percentage goes down and their moves aren’t as silky — because now they have opposition.
Every team looks like it’s full of all-stars during warmups, when there is no team opposing them. And here’s what you’ll find in the Christian life: If you are trying to do God’s will and follow His call on your life, you will have opposition. Don’t be surprised by it.
In Nehemiah 4:1-3, we find that Nehemiah was called to rebuild the wall, but he had opposition. In the Bible, we find that there are two kingdoms at war with one another: the kingdom of darkness and the Kingdom of Light (Colossians 1:13). As Christians, we will always have opposition.
But here’s some good news: If you’ve trusted the Lord Jesus Christ and are in the Kingdom of Light, you’re on the winning team. You are an overcomer (1 John 4:4).
— Ikki Soma, Houston Rockets chaplain
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