Unite as a crew........

This week's devotion has been provided by Jamie Grant who officiates in the Sun Belt Conference.  Thank you Jamie for providing the devotion....

“This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed.  Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.  I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself.  My conscience is clear but that does not make me innocent.  It is the LORD who judges me.

Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the LORD comes.  He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart.  At that time each will receive their praise from God.”  1 Corinthians 4:1-5

College football season has started and now officials will look back to review prior games and look forward to games ahead. How does a crew unite for success?

Paul had all the characteristics of a successful official as he urged the Corinthian church to put aside their differences and become a united crew.  He urged them to:
--Even though you work for the Referee, he is not the owner of the crew.  God is!
--Forget personal feelings and preferences and work together to achieve your goal.
--Remember that success is rarely dependent on a single crew member but on a united effort of the entire crew.  A team spirit is required.
--Don’t criticize or judge your Referee or crewmates.  Instead encourage one another.
--Be faithful.  Be dependable.  Work hard. Show up for every play.
--Don’t jump to conclusions before the season ends.

Prayer:  Father, help us each to be the kind of crewmate we want to partner with this season.  Let us put our ego aside and strive for a quality performance each game.  Bless this time together to form a bond among friends that lasts a life time.  AMEN