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Horse Racing and Seabiscut -- A Hope, A Prayer, and A Horse!
Why Do Christians Get SickWhy Do Christians Get Sick' Part 1 In today's world we seem to blame God for everything. We say disease, ..... Even though our lives progressively moves forward
on occasion it has a way of working what seems to
be in a backwards motion, yet in the end achieves
the same results. I remember years ago when I
started my bodybuilding career, I had no self-
confidence, poor self-esteem, and an introverted
personality. I couldn't fathom doing what others
believed I could accomplish in such an unusual
sport that went totally against my nature.
However, at first I thought, "I didn't want to let
them down and what if they're right? What if I
could accomplish something if I set my mind to it,
I asked? What if by believing in something bigger
than myself would allow me to be a better person,
develop confidence and be more outgoing?" Then
over a period of time the belief others had
started to rub off in me, combined with my work
ethic the rest became history.
I really don't want to compare myself to a horse,
but in the movie "Sea Biscuit", a similar
experience takes place. Four men from all together
different backgrounds come together with a hope, a
prayer and a horse of all things. They believed
that with a little direction, Sea Biscuit would
accomplish great things and surpass immeasurable
odds. So inspired by a few (who happened to be
going by the seat of their pants), Sea Biscuit
began to believe he too could do great things.
The thing is, this horse didn't know nor did he
care that these four men combined had only a hand
full of horse sense (no pun intended). They
believed in him and that was all that mattered.
As Sea Biscuits confidence grew his influence upon
those around him did also. Through Sea Biscuits
determination and pure heart many who followed him
began to believe in themselves in the midst of a
depression and many hardships. In some crazy
fashion this horse began to change the lives of
thousands of people all because a few men came
together having a sense of purpose, a little hope,
a lot of prayers and a horse to get them there.
If an animal like Sea Biscuit could influence
people, can you imagine what Jesus Christ can do
with you? Hebrews 11 says, "that our life with
Christ is built upon what we believe not by what
we see." At times in our Christian walk we need
those around us that believe in Christ, in us and
have a little faith even when we can't see our
future. Hopefully, if you are willing, sooner or
later that confidence rubs off and we take hold of
Gods will for our lives. That's why small groups
and close Christian friends are so important in
our walk with Christ. Other people can be the glue
that holds us together when at times we seem to be
falling apart. As in horse racing so it is in our
life with Christ, it's not the start that counts
it's finishing strong.
Never underestimate the power of small groups and
close friends. If it weren't for small groups,
close friends and people who believe in me, there
have been times during this past year, I don't
know what I would have done without them all.
Never turn down an invitation from God to
fellowship with a close group of friends,
participate in an ABF class, or just share some
quality time praying and believing in something or
someone. Those four men never knew how far a hope,
a prayer and a horse could go, but with God all
things are possible.
NEW SERIES NEXT WEEK: :WHEN GOD SPEAKS
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