Beware of the guy who insists on doing everything his own way. If the coach says wear long sleeves, he’s wearing short ones. When everyone else wears their pant legs low, his are high. He’s the guy who doesn’t shave when it’s a team mandate. All the while, he claims that he’s just expressing his personality, just doing his thing, being his own person.
In reality, he’s a rebellious, uncoachable player who is bound for trouble down the road.
Proverbs 29:1–“A man who hardens his neck after much reproof will suddenly be broken beyond remedy.”
It’s not as if the coach and even some players have tried to help him do what is required of him. It’s not as if he hasn’t been given chance after chance to get with the program.
Sleeves? Pant legs? Shaving? Is all that really a big deal? You bet it is. Unwillingness to follow leadership and directions are a sure sign of a rebellious heart…and that’s something that he carries with him wherever he goes.
One day, maybe already, it will be something more important than those seemingly trivial issues. One day, his family, job, and kids will be on the line. And, already, his eternity is on the line. Ultimately, his rebellion is against the Lord.
If rebellion continues, eventually there is no second chance. One day, that guy puts distance between himself and everyone else and then wonders why he’s all alone. One day, he will stand before the Lord and wonder why he hears the words “depart from me.”
Check your heart. Don’t be THAT guy.
Lord Jesus, right here and now, I humble myself before you. I confess my sin to you. I acknowledge my need for you. Take away my rebellion, even in the small things. Don’t let me be THAT guy…but give me a chance to help that guy. Amen.
