You Must Make Your Free Throws by Shemekia Cooper

Anyone that has played organized basketball has been told by their coach that “Free throws win games”.  Shooting free throws comes with much practice with the right form, extension and eyes focused on the basket.  I have witnessed many times that the difference in the winner and loser of a basketball game is the amount of free throws missed by the losing team.  The initial game is a team effort, but it’s only one player at the free throw line.  That player has been either fouled by the opposing team or chosen to shoot a technical shot.  There are many distractions at the line such as opposing cheerleaders and fans screaming for the player to miss it.  They also have the pressure in knowing that all eyes are on them.  After the shot, claps are heard by either the opposing team because it was missed or the home team because it was made.

We are placed at the free throw line in our everyday life.  We are fouled by tests, trials and other people.  All eyes are on us when we declare that we are Christians and are ready to clap when we fail.  Unfortunately, it seems that we are the visiting team in this world today.  Prayer, studying God’s Word, surrounding ourselves with likeminded people, and exercising our faith is the practice we need to make the winning shot.  Even if we miss, we don’t hold our heads down but stay in the game thinking of what we will do differently when the next opportunity arises and continue to practice, practice, practice. 

I am reminded of Brother Job when I consider choosing someone for the technical shot.  God searched over the land and told satan to bring trouble Job’s way.  This is just how coaches look at the team and choose the player that they feel will make the penalty shot.  God knew that Job loved Him and that he would not allow any tests, trials, or other people to distract him from his focus of eternal life with the Father.  We all know that Job won the game.  Can God put you on the line in confidence that you will make the winning shot?  However, the goal that we are focusing on is Everlasting Life!!