“Dad, maybe you will win next time.” These words have been spoken to me a few times from my kids after a tough loss, usually followed by a big hug. At five and seven years of age, they really don’t care if I win or lose. They just want a hug, and most of the time I need it more than they do. In coaching football, wrestling, and track, there is always a game or two each year that doesn’t turn out according to plan. And these words from my kids always seem to help the healing begin and it also puts “the game” in perspective. Wins and losses that matter to us coaches don’t really matter to our children. They are still trying to figure out the real game, “life.” They love us, no matter what, with unconditional love.

God’s love for us is the same way. He loves us no matter what—unconditionally, no matter the outcome of the game. He wants to wrap His loving arms around us and hug us with his Spirit. He will sustain us. He restores us after each game because we are covered by His blood. Just the way those hugs from our children help to restore us. We are His, forever. He never leaves our side; He remains there always!