Martha and I are anticipating tonight’s big game between the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs. We love the National Basketball Association (especially Martha–that’s not a joke) and we watch whenever we have time. At this time of the year our DVR is our friend, and we find the time to watch it.

Tonight’s game is huge. The Spurs lead 3 games to 2 but the next two games are scheduled for Miami. If the Spurs win either game they will be the world champs. The Heat has to win both games to repeat as champs. These are two really good teams and either could win.

From time to time I have had the opportunity to give pep talks and devotionals for sports teams. This is what I would say to the Miami Heat or the San Antonio Spurs if I had an invitation to do so.

First, you deserve to be here and you deserve to win. I would remind them how hard they have worked to get to this point. Recently, I read where a college baseball coach said you win in the summer, fall, and winter and you enjoy your team in the spring when you play your games.

We all need to remember preparation gets us ready for the game. Prepare hard and prepare well and you can enjoy the experience. Believers need to prepare each day with Scripture and prayer as we face life and seek God’s guidance.

Second, you are right where you want to be. The Spurs need only one victory while the Heat are playing at home. I would not allow either team to let any doubt creep in. Doubt, in games and in life, destroys momentum.

You can’t change the past. You can only deal with what is. I would challenge the team to seize the opportunity before them.

Third, focus. Danny Green, the Spurs player who has already set a record for three point baskets in an NBA finals series, gave that answer when asked what he must do to continue his amazing shooting.

We handle life better when we focus on the task at hand.

Fourth, forget the last play. The last play is done; the next play is the one that counts.

If you focus on the past, you can’t make the best of the present. One of the questions we must ask ourselves in the midst of pressure is this: “what can I do to make this better?”

Fifth, don’t quit. Never give up. Give 100% every play.

I tell people all the time about life: “Don’t quit, never give up, give 100%.”

Sixth, follow your coach. Everyone must be on the same team, working together. Follow the plan.

In life most plans will work (think of diets, strategies for business, etc) if you work the plan. God has a plan for your life. When you follow His plan, life will work.

Seventh, you can’t do this alone. Trust your teammates and play as a team.

Most people try to do life alone. God has a better plan. Trust Him and be a part of His Kingdom. Attach yourself to a believing group of people (the church) and let them encourage and help you with life.

It’s going to be a great game!

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