It’s Not Over Till It’s Over

Carl and I had front-row seats (well, sofa seats) for the Sweet Sixteen showdown: #3 Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. the #11 Arkansas Razorbacks. Now, I’m a faithful fan — until I’m not.

From the git-go, it felt like David versus Goliath… except Goliath was wearing Razorback red, blocking every shot and grabbing every rebound. Behind our basket? A rowdy Razorback student section who screamed like banshees during every free throw. It worked. We couldn’t make most shots to save our season.

At halftime, we were only down by 5. But shortly into the second half, it ballooned to 16 points. I couldn’t take it anymore. I did what any “faith-filled, spiritual warrior” might do — I gave up and went to bed. Ugh!

But not Carl. My steadfast man watched every heart-stopping minute. And wouldn’t you know it — our Red Raiders mounted the second-largest comeback in Sweet 16 history and WON 85-83 in overtime! Hip! Hip! Hooray!

Let me tell you, the lesson hit hard. I quit too soon and missed the joy of the comeback.
How often do we do that in life?
In prayer?
In relationships?
In faith?
Galatians 6:9 gently reminds us: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

I love what Coach Grant McCasland said in the huddle: “We’re gonna find a way to win no matter how much we are down.” That’s exactly what God tells us through His Spirit. Don’t go by what you see. Don’t give up too soon. Stay in the game. Victory might be seconds away.

So, if you’re facing your own version of a scoreboard that screams defeat, hang in there. You just might be one rally away from breakthrough.

And me? Next time, I’m staying up. Pillow or no pillow. AND, actually, I did win – I had the inspiration for today’s blog! I hear God saying: “You’re welcome!”
Let’s pray:
Lord, when the game feels lost and life feels too hard, whisper to our hearts, “Stay with Me. I’ve already won.” Strengthen our faith when we’re tempted to quit. Help us trust that even when we’re behind, You’re still coaching us toward victory. Thank You for being the God of comebacks. In Jesus’ name, amen.”