“Pray without ceasing.”—1 Thessalonians 5:17

Florida State University women’s basketball coach Sue Semrau says that “Rather than being disciplined to schedule time for prayer, it is more of an on-going conversation.” Her faith-life has been influenced by the Apostle Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians that we should “Pray without ceasing.”

Twenty-one years ago, Semrau took over a basketball program that had gone 5-22 the year before. Today she stands as the all-time winningest coach Seminoles history (401-233). She has led her team to the NCAA tournament 14 times, reaching the Elite 8 three times. Along the way a lot of prayer was involved as Semrau sought to make sure that she was following God’s agenda, not hers.

“Before I hit the ground running, I hit the ground in praise for another day. Before my head hits the pillow at night, I say a prayer of thanksgiving for all that He has done in my life,” said Semrau.

Semrau has discovered that constantly being in a prayerful mode means that her prayers will not fluctuate during good or difficult times. As Semrau continues to follow that pattern, God has shown great favor in all areas of her life.

—Jim Crosby

OneCoach, part of the Sports Spectrum Network, is an international community of coaches and spouses who have been uniquely gifted and called by God. Visit OneCoach.org for more stories and videos.

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