At half-time, the Team Talk very much depends upon how things have gone in the first half of whatever game you’ve been watching.
The coach who has been on the sidelines and has been watching that half most probably has been taking notes. From those notes, he will ascertain certain facts that he/she will wish to get across. How he does that of course depends upon character. As I said yesterday some believe in throwing teacups, while others have a gentle manner and yet still are able to get their point across.
However it is done there are two factors that are important,
- The person has to be listening and
- They have to apply what has been said into the second half.
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:16 ESVB
There is a great verse in Hebrews that tells us we don’t have to wait till half-time for a Team Talk but that we have the right to talk to our coach any time. Neither needs we be afraid that He is going to throw teacups, we can be assured of encouragement.
Yes, there may be challenging words, they are to inspire us not to condemn and when we realise that perhaps we will go to our coach more often than we do.
Our coach wants us to win. In fact, He guarantees victory at the end of the game. The reason is our coach The Bible tells us that we are more than conquerors through Christ. This is the reason we win the game because of Christ.
So let’s come boldly to the throne. I have heard of some players who are frightened to come into the dressing room at half-time knowing there is a real rocketing ahead of them. That’s not so with us, can I say no matter what situation we are in we will be accepted lovingly and unconditionally. That is great, no teacups here! So please if you feel you cannot approach God that is not what our verse says. We come in reverence but we come boldly because our position as we have just said is in Christ. Christ has given us the access to approach the throne of God so let us use it not just occasionally but daily. We will find it encouraging.
The word “boldly” is a translation of a word that means “free utterance”, an attitude of confidence to speak freely before God. There are many coaches in sport today who have never actually participated in the sport that they are now coaching, not so with Jesus. Jesus entered into our world. He knows exactly what the playing field is like. He also knows what it’s like to complete the match i.e. His life. Therefore our coach is not immune to our situations.
Finally, read and absorb this wonderful invitation from Jesus.
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
Matthew 11:29-30 The Message
Stay safe and Blessed