Full Court Press

Daily Reading: John 18

Scripture Focus: Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. (John 18.3)

Devotional Thought: When I married my wife, I didn't get a dowry. I got a legacy! Part of that legacy is that I am now a West Virginia University fan. In the spring, it's WVU basketball! I remember the seasons, under Coach Huggins, that they were known as "Press Virginia" because of their stifling defense - particularly their full court press. I loved to watch those Mountaineers press! But, to be honest, I sometimes feel sorry for the opposing team! One player would dog the guard all the way up the backcourt and then all of a sudden two - and sometimes three! - defensive players would be surrounding the guard, trying to steal the ball. Many times, panic ensued and the guard threw the ball away.

That's what Judas did when he betrayed Jesus. He did a full court press. He didn't go alone. He went with "a band of soldiers and some officers," overwhelming the small group of disciples. But not Jesus! Jesus remained calm, protected his disciples, and did not give in to panic.

Satan often tries the full court press on us. He may start his dirty work alone, but soon he gathers others to surround us, trying to steal victory from us. He is hoping that panic will ensue and that we will throw the ball away, give up and walk away. He wants to destroy us.

But remember - Jesus is with us. And, he doesn't panic. He will protect the ball and preserve the victory. Trust in him!

Prayer: Lord, when Satan comes against me, help me to keep my eyes on you - to look beyond the sometimes overwhelming circumstances, and see your face. Help me to taste victory with the Victor!

Psalm of the Day: 1 O LORD, rebuke me not in your anger, nor discipline me in your wrath! 2 For your arrows have sunk into me, and your hand has come down on me. 3 There is no soundness in my flesh because of your indignation; there is no health in my bones because of my sin. 4 For my iniquities have gone over my head; like a heavy burden, they are too heavy for me. 5 My wounds stink and fester because of my foolishness, 6I am utterly bowed down and prostrate; all the day I go about mourning. 7 For my sides are filled with burning, and there is no soundness in my flesh. 8 I am feeble and crushed; I groan because of the tumult of my heart. (Psalms 38:1-8)