It was only when he got a team full of better players that he felt like a success. And he enjoyed the attention and accolades that came with it. The team he coached over the past two years consisted of sub-par players with little experience. Now, he had put together a team of big, strong, talented players. He sat back and enjoyed the fruits of their labor.

Before, he had been angry and often depressed, berating his players for not winning him more games. Now, he was on top of the mountain.

Thinking of that guy, check out what Proverbs 11:28 has to say–“He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like the green leaf.”

A few convicting thoughts come to mind:

If I’m hoping being on or coaching a better team will fulfill my hopes and dreams, I’m sadly mistaken.

If I’m riding high because I’m winning, do I have the character to withstand losing?

If my life is wrapped up in the Lord, I will trust in him even when I feel like a complete failure on or off the field.

If I’m living according to the will and example of Jesus, winning on the field will simply be a bonus.

If I want to truly flourish in life, baseball (or money, or image, or whatever) can’t make that happen.

Lord Jesus, help me to trust in nothing but you. Amen.