“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest.”
-Psalm 22:1-2
Fourth and five, with less than a minute in the game, and Peyton Manning had one more play to make something happen. He took the snap, rolled to his right, lofted a pass to Dallas Clark and…it was dropped. The Colts will not defend their Super Bowl Champion title. Immediate disappointment set in for players, coaches and fans. There were questions asked, but not many answers.
Disappointment is something in sport and life that can trigger many different responses. David, the King, son and shepherd boy knew that only too well. He was left out while his brothers fought in battle, he lost his best friend, he was pursued by Saul and countless others. And there are many other reasons David felt the sting of hurt, loss and pain. Each time that happened, he had a choice to make. His disappointment could lead to bitterness, anger, rage, envy and jealousy, and in some cases it did; but more often, David turned to the truth. The truth was—and is to this day—trusting in God and His plan.
Like the Colts and Cowboys experienced this weekend, we too get disappointed; but how we respond is what sets us apart. We have to choose what road we will take to our healing when disappointment comes. The world shows us a virtual interstate of choices filled with lanes leading to destruction and negative thinking; but the Lord offers a simple, less-traveled path. This path may be bumpy and may include steep inclines, but the destination leads to a great place: the foot of the cross.
We have to make a conscious choice to do three things in choosing what road to travel. First, we must choose the road less travelled. Second, once we arrive at the foot of the cross of Christ, we must bow down and humbly confess to Him and ask for His guidance and leading. Finally, we must trust and obey what His plan for our life is. History has shown us that trusting in God through disappointment is the only way to stay on His plan.
So, what road will you travel next time disappointment comes along? The world’s highway, or the path that leads to the Promised Land?
1. When was the last time you were disappointed in sports?
2. Where does life have you down right now? Are you becoming bitter or better from the situation?
3. Today, how can you follow the path that leads to the cross, even if everything and everyone around you is pushing you the other way?
Psalm 22:3-5
Proverbs 3:5-6
Jeremiah 29:11-14