Today, I had lunch with a good friend of mine. His name is Erik Arneson, and he currently serves as the Metro East Director of FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes).
Erik and I met a few years ago through Daryl Whittington, a mutual friend of ours. Daryl reached out to me to speak and lead worship at a summer FCA Football camp at St. Louis Christian College. I was shocked. "Who? Me?? Football camp?? What am I going to say? I'm not athletic. If I was honest, I don't even like sports (that's another blog.... maybe even a series lol). What could I say that would merit these guys listening to me?"
I knew this was a God opportunity and had to trust that He would lead me. I hesitantly agreed and asked a few of my bros to assist me with this endeavor.
The football camp was amazing! These were some of the nicest guys who really love Jesus with all their heart. We hung out, stayed in the dorms, grubbed on some good food, and made some good connections. I even made some life-long friends through the camp.
I remember the first night of worship and one of my musicians wasn't able to make it at the last minute, so the Three Amigos (Ed Meeks, Ryan Williams and I) made it "do what it do." It was CRAZY!!! God came in that auditorium in such an amazing way. It was like being at a Friday night football game, and we scored the winning touchdown. The guys were jumping all over the place and passionately expressing their love for Jesus through their praise and worship.
I spoke at a few of the sessions, and it was cool to see how attentive the guys were, even the camp leaders and FCA staff. Here I was disqualifying myself from speaking into their lives because of my lack of experience. But the Lord reminded me that if He (Jesus) be lifted up, HE will draw all men unto Him. And that's exactly what He did.
It's been a few years since that camp, and I'm still in touch with some of the guys. Erik and I haven't met up in 3 years, and it was great to see and hear what the Lord is doing in our lives, marriages and family. I'm glad I cast that fear down and was obedient to the Lord. It's been a rewarding and life-changing experience!
Maybe you feel like you're not good enough for that opportunity, that relationship or call God's placed on your life. If that's you, I'd like you to join with me in prayer right now:
Jesus, sometimes I fail to see myself as you see me, and I disqualify myself from people and places where you're calling me. But I don't want to live in this prison any longer. I want to break free. I want to be as bold as a lion (Proverbs 28:1b). I want to be EVERYTHING you've called and created me to be. Help me to "Arise and shine for my light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon me (Isaiah 60:1)." I want to serve you wholeheartedly. If there are areas in my life that are opening doors of hindrance in my life, reveal them to me. Help me to expose them, so I can walk without weights and chains. "Give me a clean heart, and renew within me a right spirit (Psalm 51:10)." Anoint me with power from on high. I give you praise for this in Jesus' name. Amen.
If you prayed that prayer and feel your faith rising, please share what used to disqualify you and where you're going now in Jesus! I am stoked to hear what you say! :)
