Are You Feeling Worn-Out and Waterlogged?

“You don’t know what pressure is until you play for five bucks with only two bucks in your pocket.” – Lee Trevino

Some people seemingly thrive on pressure. Tom Brady and Joe Montana were both known as “big game” quarterbacks and John Elway was a recognized master of the “two-minute drill.” In baseball, Reggie Jackson earned the nickname “Mr. October” for his postseason exploits, especially Game Six of the 1977 World Series when he homered three times off three different pitchers on three consecutive pitches. And on the hardwood, Jerry West of the LA Lakers was known as “Mr. Clutch” for playing his best when the stakes were high.

I am not a professional athlete and have never performed at the level of these all-time greats, but I have played softball in front of a crowd of 800 inmates. Likewise, I have preached to 1,000 people in a mega-church and prayed in front of a similar number of people at a political rally. And guess what? I was scared – make that petrified – each and every time!

The way I dealt with my “butterflies” was relatively simple. I got alone with God and asked Him to quiet my heart and calm my nerves. Most importantly, I pleaded with Him to empty “me of me” and instead, to fill me to overflowing with His presence. My deepest desire was for people to see and hear God… not me.

Are you feeling the pressure of daily life in the hectic and fast-paced 21st century? Join the club! Are you also feeling the financial pinch caused by runaway inflation and high interest rates? Me too! Having trouble keeping up with technology? Yep, so am I! Troubled by world events? You’re not alone! Feeling a bit “waterlogged” by the storms of life? I get it!

My friend, my advice is that when you are “under the gun” and things seem to be spinning out of control, go to God and find shelter beneath His wings. Trust me… it works!

“He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart.” Psalm 91:4 (BSB)

“Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.” Mark 4:39 (NKJV)

- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President