Wednesday, December 14, 2011
The favor of God
One of Tim Tebow's pastors has created quite a stir in the sports arena and it has crossed over into the mainstream. Of the Denver Broncos' Wayne Hanson of Summit Church told TMZ, "It's not luck. Luck isn't winning six games in a row. It's favor. God's favor." Immediately, the buzz went out. Sports commentators were saying that God only favors Tim Tebow and that all other teams and Christians on those teams were obviously not favored by God. Many raised questions that God's favor was only to those who He chose and all others who believed in Him were not favored. The remarks came after Denver's come from behind win over the Chicago Bears, whose coach Lovie Smith is also a committed Christian.

The remarks stirred nationwide controversy. For example, if God favors Tebow, God must not favor Marion Barber who ran out of bounds stopping the clock too early and who also fumbled the ball away when the game was on the line for the Bears. Why isn't Barber favored, too? Many questioned whether God even cares about sporting events. Let me say this. I have coached football and basketball over a 40 year span. I have seen tremendous athletes compete, win and lose. I have seen some with great ability never perform up to their talent because of their attitudes. I have seen others, who have great faith in Jesus Christ, perform far above their abilities. I have seen some Christians who were not good athletes.

The favor of God is a wonderful thing. Do I think that God favors one team over another? My answer would be that God can do whatever he wishes for his own results. But my observations are that many athletes who sincerely have a relationship with God can do amazing things. My son is an example. He prays before games. He reads the Bible. He readies his mind to play. And when he gets on the field, good things happen for him and his teammates. Does his team win every game, no. But is their a spirit, or presence of God on the field, yes. I have seen kids injured to the point that they shouldn't be able to play. But after prayer and by their faith, they are able to get back in and do well.

Galatians 6:7 says, "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Tim Tebow and his parents have sown good seed. Tebow is reaping that seed as he walks out his faith. The broadcasters, analysts, critics, and opposing fans have mocked Tebow's ability and his faith. It seems the more they mock the better he does. Favor with God is a wonderful thing. Proverbs 8:35,36 says, "For whoso finds me finds life, and shall obtain favor of the Lord. But he that sins against me wrongs his own soul: all they that hate me love death." You know, everybody that participates in life does not get a trophy. You reap what you sow. Sow in such a way that God's favor is upon you!

Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson