Living with the end in mind is key to my confidence today. If, as a coach, you knew the final score of the game was in your favor, how would you coach during the game? In the game of life and eternity, God is the champion, and victory is guaranteed. Daniel chapters 7 to 12 give us a glimpse into the future in which God will reign with all who believe.

Competition is a good thing. Competition allows us to measure ourselves, to strive for better things and can keep us grounded or humble. What would happen if you played a game against a very competitive opponent but you did not compete in return? If you played the game but did not care about the outcome or how well you were doing, you would likely get whipped. Sadly, many of us are playing a spiritual game, and we are not competing. We are getting whipped spiritually day after day, on and off the field, but we just keep going. Hopefully, this chapter will change the way you compete.

On almost all athletic fields, there is a player or coach who stands out and is considered a star. We give out Star of the Game awards for exceptional play. A player’s outstanding performance brings attention just as shining stars are recognized. In Daniel 12:2 it says that people who lead others to Christ is the equivalent of an exceptional performance in God’s kingdom.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and his dad, Don Hasselbeck, center for the Indianapolis Colts Jeff Saturday, middle linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens Ray Lewis and FCA President Les Steckel