“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” — John 15:4
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It might be a stretch, but follow with me as we go on a three-day devotional journey. Until I moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, I was never much of a NASCAR fan. I didn’t understand it, didn’t appreciate it, and just didn’t like it. But now having experienced it firsthand by being at a race, I have great appreciation for it and actually really enjoy it. As I’ve learned more about the sport, something really struck me: the roles of the crew chief, the pit crew and the spotter — and how they relate to the Son, the Holy Spirit and the Father.
The relationship between Jimmie Johnson, one of the best drivers in NASCAR history, and his former crew chief, Chad Knaus, has been heralded as one of the best in all of NASCAR. The only evidence needed is their seven Cup Series championships (five consecutive), more than 80 race wins together, and both were inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2024.
The role of the crew chief is to be the overseer of any and all changes made to the driver’s car, before, during and after races. It is essential for the driver and the crew chief to have a great relationship to be successful. They need to be in constant communication. The driver needs to tell the crew chief what he feels about the car and the chief can guide and direct responses to what can and cannot be adjusted.
For us as believers to drive our cars to success, we must also be in close relationship with our Crew Chief, Jesus Christ. This means we must abide daily in the Word, we must be in daily prayer and supplication, and we must be humble enough to give up control. While this doesn’t mean we must spend our whole, entire day reading Scripture or praying, we should check in with Him throughout the day, just as a driver checks in with the crew chief throughout the race.
As you drive through your day at breakneck speeds, make sure you are talking to your Crew Chief.
— Ryan DiNunzio
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