NEW Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought is provided by Charmer Pratt. Charmer, a longtime member of Grace Covenant Church Philadelphia, has served faithfully in the welcoming ministry since 2016.

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Fleeting Human Strength”

James 4:14

“Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” 

On January 2, 2023, a National Football League (NFL) game between the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals was halted and eventually canceled on national television after Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field. In reviewing the preceding moments, nothing seemed out of the ordinary; Hamlin tackled the ball carrier, who had run into his chest—something that had likely happened to him hundreds of times before. However, this tackle triggered a cardiac arrest.

What followed was an outpouring of prayers from players, coaches, media members, and fans throughout the nation for Hamlin’s recovery. Some NFL analysts even prayed on national television, which is a rare occurrence, to say the least! Thankfully, Hamlin fully recovered and continues to play football to this day.

This moment reminded the world of a truth that we as Christians already know but often try not to think about: our days on this earth are completely in God’s hands. It is good to take care of our bodies by exercising and maintaining a healthy diet, but neither guarantees that we will walk the earth tomorrow. The LORD has called you to follow Him and obey Him in a specific way. Do not hesitate to do what He, who holds your next breath, has told you to do, and do not hesitate to worship Him with every breath!

Prayer: Lord, thank You for every breath You give me and every moment You give me on this earth. Please forgive me for the moments I’ve wasted, thinking foolishly that I’m guaranteed the next one.Remind me, Holy Spirit, to never hesitate to seek and follow Your guidance.Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Titus 1-2