Valleys, Victories, and a Little Boy’s Smile

 Today was Garrett’s last game of the season.

(One of many favorite photos of the season.)

The final game was truly spectacular, filled with memorable moments from both teams. The incredible plays made it stand out as my favorite match of the entire season. However, the highlight for me was simply seeing my boys smile throughout the game.

As we headed to the game, I noticed a shift in Garrett's attitude. The bubbly little boy seemed to be missing, replaced by an unusual quietness.

Me: “Hey bud, what’s wrong? You don’t seem excited. It’s game day! Your most favorite day of the whole week and tonight is your final game!”

Garrett: “ I’m not gonna hit the ball tonight.” (His head bowed.) “I didn’t even hit the ball last time Mom. I’m so bad at it. I know I’m not gonna do well today.”

Me: “Oh no boy! What are you talking about? We are not doing this! Not my favorite ball player. We are gonna speak life about this. You are going to rock this game tonight! Last week you had an earache. I know it was super hard to play, and you did your best under the circumstances. Today is your day! Tonight, you will play the best game you have played all season.”

Garrett: “You think so?”

Me: “Bud, I know so! You are gonna swing that bat so hard. But after you hear that smack, you run like your life depends on it. Dude the team y’all are playing if I remember are pretty strong fielders, just like y’all.”

Garrett: “I can do that!” (He pointed his finger in the air and smiled his huge smile.)

He was so excited by the time he got on the field.

Watching Garrett’s shift his mindset reminded me of how easily we, too, can be swayed by doubt. That made me reflect on something deeper.

Satan often infiltrates our thoughts, whispering lies that tell us we are not good enough, unworthy, or failures. These insidious messages can easily take root in our minds. Imagine if we allowed ourselves to believe these falsehoods—would we become disheartened? Would we lose the motivation to keep moving forward?

I sat there thinking about that tonight.

                          The Enemy’s Voice

I find myself in a season of waiting and prayer, striving to keep my feet firmly on God's path. Each day, as I navigate this journey, I can feel God shaping me, and I'm beginning to notice small pieces of this journey falling into place. I often wonder what would happen if I allowed myself to be consumed by Satan's discouraging whispers. If I let those negative thoughts take hold, I could easily become disheartened and lose sight of the mission God has set before me, all because I might feel unworthy.

 In The Valley

In the valleys of our lives, we are meant to grow and prepare ourselves to ascend the steep mountains ahead. While the journey may not be easy, it is essential to keep our gaze fixed forward, always looking to the Shepherd for guidance. These valleys serve a purpose; they shape and strengthen us, allowing us to reflect the qualities of Jesus in our lives.

Listening to the voice of the enemy is never wise. When you begin to hear that voice, you will recognize it by its hateful, ugly, and mean tone. In those moments, pray with greater intensity and perseverance, remaining steadfast and anchored in God. Trust that our true strength comes solely from Him. Immerse yourself in His word and let him guide you through the challenges you face.

                                    Psalm 23

23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
²     He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.^[a]
3     He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness^[b]
    for his name's sake.

⁴ Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,^[c]
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
⁶ Surely^[d] goodness and mercy^[e] shall follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell^[f] in the house of the Lord
    forever.^[g

Trusting the Shepard

 The Lord is always by our side, no matter the challenges we face. A valuable piece of advice from someone who has walked through many seasons,  never attempt to outrun Jesus; from personal experience, I can assure you that it leads to frustration. He knows the path we should take, so it’s essential to place our trust in Him. By allowing Him to guide us, we open ourselves to the wisdom He offers along the way. Let us remain receptive and teachable during these moments of growth.

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Garrett managed to connect with a few pitches during the game, and at one point, he made a daring attempt to outpace the first baseman. However, there are times when a well-executed play simply cannot be overcome. The smile on his face after being tagged out spoke volumes; it was clear he understood he had given it his all, and sometimes, no matter how hard we try, we can't outrun a great play.
From the batter's box to the field, his passion for the game never wavered.

Never forget, my friends: the words we speak carry power — to build up, to inspire, and to reflect the truth of who we are in Christ.