Last Night's Game Proved That The Bible Is Correct

Coach Jordan Gilbert drawing up the next play

Last night's game against Hart County was much closer than it should have been. Nelson County was leading on the scoreboard for much of the game until it happened. The Cardinals started missing some shots at point-blank range which is very unusual for this group of young men. Hart County won by one point by scoring in the final six seconds. Pictured above is Coach Jordan Gilbert who has brought incredible leadership to this team. The Cardinals didn't lose the game because they were outcoached and they didn't lose because of the refs. They would have won the game if they hadn't missed so many shots under the basket.

It doesn't matter if you are wide-open or being guarded, when you shoot the ball, your intention should always be to make the shot. And how can a player shoot the ball under the basket with the right intention? By hitting the mark.

What is that mark? The square on the backboard. "The square gives players a visual reference of where to aim their shots. This reference gives them more control and accuracy when shooting the ball, making scoring easier. It helps players adjust their aim if they miss the hoop." [basketballforall.com] One of the drills that basketball teams often do is start by shooting under the basket and then moving from there. Why? To develop the habit of good fundamentals. To practice it so often that it becomes second nature.

So how does that apply to the Bible? Being a Christian requires focus and practice hitting the mark. Paul wrote these words in Philippians 3:12–14 (ESV) — 12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (emphasis added)

• The Cardinals are having a great season but they can't lose focus now. Every shot matters. Every possession should be handled with the intention of scoring.

• Yes, Nelson County is having a great season but the season isn't over yet.

• We as Christians cannot let ourselves get comfortable. We must keep "press[ing] on toward the goal".

Paul also described this idea in 1 Corinthians 9:26–27 (ESV) — 26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. Paul used the imagery of a runner and boxer to show that we must focus on what God has commanded us in His Word. Friends, Christianity is not a game. It is a constant spiritual battle and it is definitely not the time to ease up now.