Life has a way of pushing some to the edges, like forgotten cars rusting on a side road. It’s easy to overlook those who once shone brightly but have since slipped into shadows.
When Elton John rediscovered Leon Russell, he saw more than just a musical icon—he saw a soul in need of revival.
Elton’s call to collaborate wasn’t just about making music; it was about reaching into that metaphorical ditch and offering a hand.
When Leon Russell was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he said, “Elton came and pulled me out of the ditch of life.” This simple act of reaching out brought him back into the spotlight, giving him new life and purpose.
It’s a powerful reminder that we all have the potential to be that hand for someone else. As Christ followers, we’re called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those who are in their own ditches of life.
Whether it’s a word of encouragement, an act of service, or simply a listening ear, we have the power to bring light to someone’s darkness.
Take a moment to think about someone who might be feeling forgotten or overlooked. Your act of kindness could be the very thing that helps them find their way back.
Elton did a good deed. That’s nice, and that’s where it can start. But as a relationship grows you can offer them something more.
Offer them Jesus too and a real life of change, not just out of the ditch, but on the freeway to a better and more meaningful journey.
Be the one who pulls someone out of the ditch, and maybe more—just like Jesus has done for you and me.
Kobe Bryant, the late NBA legend, famously talked about the “Mamba Mentality,” a relentless commitment to excellence.
He didn’t just dream of being a great basketball player; he defined exactly who he wanted to be. Kobe’s vision was clear: he wanted to be the best, and that required unwavering dedication.
Instead of just wishing for greatness, he put in the hours, getting up at 4 AM for grueling training sessions. He didn’t let setbacks deter him, whether it was injuries or missed game-winning shots.
Kobe’s approach was simple: work harder and smarter than anyone else. His commitment to his goals inspired a generation of athletes.
He proved that to become the person you want to be, you must act with purpose and consistency. It’s not enough to visualize success; you must build it through focused action and a refusal to give up.
His life and career serve as a testament to the power of defining who you want to be and then doing whatever it takes to make it a reality.
Your challenge: Over the next seven days, commit to a small, specific, and measurable goal that aligns with the person you want to become.
Whether it’s waking up 30 minutes earlier to exercise, dedicating time to learn something new, or focusing on a daily act of kindness, stick to it without excuses.
Track your progress each day and reflect on how your actions are moving you closer to your goal.
At the end of the week, assess what you accomplished, how it felt, and whether you’re becoming the person you aspire to be.
Consistency is key. If you meet your goal for a week, you’ve made a step toward lasting change.
Share your results with someone who can keep you accountable, and keep pushing forward. Contact me if I can help you.
One of the saddest phrases we can ever say is “what if?”. We can become paralyzed by a fear of trying something because of the unknown but that is no way to live.
As mentioned last week, one of the biggest dreams in my head 25 years ago was coaching college basketball.
After a fantastic two year experience I felt my calling and place to be was back at the high school level.
The good thing was I didn’t have to say “what if?”. I’m grateful for that.
Trust your abilities, your instincts and lean on those around you that can be of support to you as you pursue your dream. I am grateful for my family for constantly joining me in pursuing my dreams.
Your dream, in fact, may also help someone around you believe that they can accomplish their dream too.
The first step toward your dream has to be your first step. Have faith, be brave and dream. Then go to work.
I’m cheering for you.
Questions to Ponder and Pursue
1. What dreams or aspirations do you have that you’ve been hesitant to pursue, and how can you overcome the fear of the unknown to take the first step towards them?
2. Who in your life can you lean on for support and encouragement as you work towards achieving your dreams, and how can you reciprocate that support for others in their pursuits?
Do Not Fear
Many times, pursuing your dreams can seem daunting. The path ahead might be unclear, and fear can make it seem impossible to take that first step.
Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
This scripture is a profound reminder that even when we’re facing uncertainty, God is always with us, ready to support and guide us on our journey.
Think about your dreams and goals. Maybe you’re holding back because you’re unsure of the outcome or afraid of failure. The truth is, you don’t have to face these fears alone.
God promises to strengthen and help you. His presence means that no matter what challenges arise, you have a constant source of support and encouragement.
As you pursue your dreams, keep Isaiah 41:10 in your heart. Remember that God’s righteous right hand is there to uphold you, providing you with the strength and courage to take bold steps toward your goals.
Trust in His promise, and know that you can overcome any obstacle with His guidance. Don’t be afraid to dream big and take risks.
The journey might be challenging, but with God by your side, there’s nothing you can’t achieve. Trust Him, move forward, and embrace the adventure that comes with pursuing your dreams.
You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you let go of fear and rely on God’s unfailing support.
Questions to Ponder and Pursue
1. What dreams or aspirations have you been hesitant to pursue due to fear or uncertainty, and how can you apply the promise of Isaiah 41:10 to overcome these fears?
2. How does knowing that God is with you, strengthening and upholding you, influence your approach to achieving your dreams? In what ways can this assurance encourage you to take bold steps towards your goals?
Ephesians 6:11-13: “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
In a world that’s constantly pushing you toward shortcuts, compromise, and instant gratification, holding onto your character is like holding onto a lifeline.
It’s not just about being a good person; it’s about standing firm in your beliefs when everything around you seems to be pulling you in the opposite direction.
Character is your armor against a world that wants to seduce you, buy you, tempt you, and change you into someone you’re not. It’s the inner compass that guides you when you’re faced with difficult choices.
It’s what keeps you true to your word, even when it would be easier to break it. It’s what compels you to do the right thing, even when no one is watching.
In the short term, it might seem like character doesn’t pay off. You might find others advancing faster because they took the easier route or bent the rules.
But character is about thinking long-term. It’s about understanding that the choices you make today will define who you become tomorrow. It’s about building a foundation of trust, integrity, and respect that will stand the test of time.
So, when you’re faced with temptation, remember that your character is what sets you apart. It’s what gives you strength when the world wants you to bend. It’s what allows you to walk away from what doesn’t align with your values, even if it costs you in the moment.
Because in the end, it’s not about what you gain or lose; it’s about who you become.
Stand firm. Hold on to your principles. Let your character be your guide. Because the world needs people who can’t be bought, who won’t be swayed, and who will stay true to themselves no matter the cost.
Be that person. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Put on the armor.
[11] For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
In 1999, I found myself at a crossroads, feeling uneasy and burnt out from my job in K-12 Physical Education. There was a sense that I was meant for something more, but I couldn’t pinpoint exactly what that was. I knew I needed a new challenge, but the path ahead seemed unclear.
The thought of taking on more responsibility, perhaps as an athletic director, seemed like a distant dream, especially with my friend holding that role in Manning. Opportunities for advancement were slim.
One day, I came across a job posting for a coaching position at Nebraska Christian College in Norfolk, NE. This opportunity was intriguing for several reasons—it was where my parents had graduated, my sister had attended, and it was located in the city where I was born.
Coaching college basketball and taking on the role of athletic director were not just any positions; they were dream jobs that combined my passion for sports with my desire to lead and make a difference.
Despite the excitement, I was hesitant. Should I uproot my family, leave behind our close-knit community, and pursue a dream that could turn out differently from what I imagined?
I remember sitting at the dining room table on a Saturday morning, reading a devotional, when I came across Jeremiah 29:11—”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This scripture spoke to my heart, giving me the reassurance I needed to pursue my dream. It was the nudge I needed to move forward, knowing that God was leading the way.With newfound clarity, my family and I decided to take the leap, and we moved to Norfolk in the summer of 1999.
Those two years at Nebraska Christian College turned out to be more than I could have hoped for—they became a defining chapter in my journey, impacting not only my career but also my family’s future.
Here’s how our dreams intertwined with God’s plans:
A Family Connection:
My oldest daughter got to know the college during our time in Norfolk and later decided to attend there. It’s also where she met her future husband. This connection felt like part of God’s plan, a dream that He orchestrated in ways we couldn’t have anticipated.
Spiritual Growth and Mentorship:
My friend Shane Coop, the worship pastor at First Christian Church, introduced me to contemporary worship music and showed me what authentic worship looks like. His mentorship was a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey, expanding my understanding of faith and worship. It felt like a dream to work with someone who could guide me in such a meaningful way.
Coaching and Impact:
Coaching college basketball was a long-held dream that I was able to realize at Nebraska Christian College. Despite being a smaller college, it was still a significant opportunity to mentor and guide young athletes. I was able to witness these young men grow, mature, and find success in their careers and personal lives. It’s humbling to see how God used our time there to shape the lives of others.
The Gift of Experience:
The role of Athletic Director, Dean of Students, and a college basketball coach allowed me to gain valuable administrative experience, setting the foundation for future leadership roles. It was a dream come true to be in a position where I could make a difference and not have to ask “What if?” for the rest of my career.
Our time in Norfolk may have been brief, but the impact was lasting. Jeremiah 29:11 became a life verse for me, a constant reminder that God’s plans are filled with hope and a future.
The dream of coaching college basketball, beginning my journey as an athletic director, and leading a team became a reality, all because I took a step of faith and trusted in God’s guidance.
Dreams can sometimes feel distant or out of reach, but when we align our dreams with God’s will, we can see the beauty of His perfect plan.
As you pursue your own dreams, remember that God’s timing is always perfect, and even the briefest moments can have a profound impact on the rest of your life.
Trust in Him, embrace the journey, and be blessed as you follow the path He has set for you.
Be Blessed!
Questions to Ponder and Pursue
1. How have seemingly brief or unexpected experiences in your life contributed to the fulfillment of your dreams, and how did you recognize God’s guidance in those moments?
2. Reflecting on Jeremiah 29:11, what steps can you take to align your dreams with God’s plans, and how can you find reassurance during times of uncertainty or transition?
Made For This Moment 