Friday Night Lights - Karen Huffaker

 

Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you righteous ones; And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart. 

~Psalm 32:11 NASB

It’s fall, which means it’s time for football to return. Excitement and anticipation build as fans await the first game kickoff under the Friday night lights.

Cheerleaders serve breakfast for the players. Later, coaches prepare them mentally and physically and serve them a hearty meal beforehand.

Families gather, wearing their teams’ logos on clothing, gear, and accessories. And don’t forget the cowbells, pom pom shakers, and tailgate parties. The community comes to life after a lazy summer.

But do we do the same in our worship of God? At the games, there is gladness, shouting, joy, hand waiving, singing, swaying to the drum beats, clapping hands, and stomping feet. Our worship should incorporate these enthusiastic displays and expressions of emotion, whether in private or public.

When the school band marches onto the track, it reminds me of the hymn, We’re Marching to Zion. The psalmist said to be glad, rejoice, and shout for joy.

We don’t have to be shy, quiet, solemn, or embarrassed. Nor must we look sad or serious. We have every reason to be joyful and express our gladness for what our Savior has done. Jesus saved us. We have victory in Him. The game has already been won.

Let the overflow of your joy be evident to everyone around you.

Tweetable: Are you excited about worship? 

Karen Huffaker is a freelance Christian writer. She has taught children’s Sunday school and single mom’s Bible studies and written poetry. She is from the Deep South and loves reading Christian books, devotionals, genealogy adventures, fishing, and all things family. She is also passionate about her grandchildren’s sporting events. 

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Excited about God’s Plan - Martin Wiles

After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the Lord or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel. Judges 2:10 NLT

“Pa.” “Car.” “Go.” I filled in the blanks and knew what my grandson wanted.

Our second grandson was not quite two years old. The age his brother was when he wanted to start spending the night with Meme and Pop. Sometimes, he would stay several nights in a row. Now his younger brother wants to do the same—but only one night at a time.

One particular night, our daughter texted to say Colton was pitching a fit. He wanted his MeMe. We were at a movie with friends, but my wife promised she would check when we got home to see if he still wanted to spend the night. Sure enough, he did. So off we drove across town to rescue our distraught grandson.

When our daughter opened the front door and our grandson saw MeMe standing at the door and me sitting in the car, his face lit up. He was ready to go. “Bye” was all he had to offer his mom. When he got to our house, he played excitedly, as if he’d not been there in ages. I blew up his air mattress bed, and he slept soundly all night.

My wife and I normally accommodate any grandchildren requests to spend the night because we know one day things will change. They did with God’s Old Testament people. They once followed God faithfully. They were excited to have fellowship with Him. But somewhere along the line, things changed and they began pandering after the gods of the surrounding nations until finally a generation grew up who didn’t even acknowledge the God of their ancestors.

God’s plan for me to follow Him, trust Him, serve Him, and serve others should produce excitement. And it normally does in the beginning. Unfortunately, after years of serving Him, sometimes the new wears off—as it does with children and grandchildren as they grow older and don’t want to be seen with older folks.

Following God’s plan should remain exciting throughout our lifetime. His plan for us may change numerous times, but our eyes should light up when we realize it—as my grandsons did when he saw my wife and me. Joining God in what He’s doing, and letting Him conform us to His image are the most exciting things we could ever be a part of.

Get excited about God’s plan for your life.

Tweetable: Are you following God's plan?

Prayer: Father, thank You for making a plan for our lives. Give us excitement about being a part of Your work. 

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