This year, the UConn Huskies played the Oklahoma Sooners in the Fiesta Bowl. Going into the game, they were massive underdogs. While they’d been 8-4 and won the Big East Conference, many considered their conference and schedule weak. Thus, the Sooners were highly favored to win the game.

Early in the second quarter, a UConn defensive back intercepted an Oklahoma pass and returned it for a touchdown. After crossing the goal line and tossing the ball down, he placed his hands over his face as if he could not believe what had happened. As I watched his reaction, I couldn’t help but wonder what kind of expectations he and his team had held when they’d entered the game. UConn has had success under Coach Randy Edsell in recent years, but not many would consider them a traditional football power like Oklahoma. Most considered this game a mismatch. Deep down, did the players feel that way themselves?

When it comes to our lives as Christians, what do we expect out of each day? Do we walk through life expecting God to use us in great ways, or do we act like underdogs? Society constantly tells Christians what they cannot do. We are bombarded with a media blitz that says a Christian lifestyle is not what we should seek. We are told that humble service is the way of the weak and that selfish ambition is the better way. Certainly, if we listen to the popular voices, we will believe that Christians are the perpetual underdogs.

In light of this, it’s important for us to remind ourselves daily that we play for the Master Coach who has already achieved the victory for us. If we accept this truth and live in His grace moving forward to love and serve others in His name, then not only will we be favored to win, we actually will.

Today, if you feel like an underdog, change your mindset. The Lord never fails and He will lead you into victory. Go forward and expect to win!