Premature Fist Pumps

Martin Kaymer exults after sinking the putt that clinched the Ryder Cup for Team Europe on Sunday, winning 14.5-13.5.  Meanwhile, before their matches were over Jim Furyk, Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods all displayed premature fist pumps prior their shots lipping out.  Golfers aren’t the only ones guilty of this act.  On any given Sunday, defensive players in the NFL celebrate a sack or tackle for a loss on 1st or 2nd down, only to see their team give up a big play on 3rd down, continuing their opponent’s drive.

One of the most famous premature fist pumps occurs in 1 Kings 18:16-46, a battle between supernatural powers.  In one of the most famous power encounters ever recorded, the prophet Elijah has a duel with the prophets of Baal.  The challenge was to call upon your god to bring fire from heaven to consume the burnt offering.  The first to do so wins.  According to 1 Kings 18:46, Elijah was so pumped up after his victory, he runs ahead of King Ahab to go tell the queen.

Unfortunately, when you have mountain top victories, it only takes a little wind to blow you off and come crashing back down to reality.  Instead of receiving praise, Elijah has a death threat put on his life by Queen Jezebel.  When life is going great, sometimes you become full of yourself, opening the door to arrogance, boastfulness and pride.  Therefore, before you get another urge to pump your fist in the air, consider the apostle Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 10:12.  If you still want to celebrate, boast about what the Lord has allowed you to accomplish, 1 Corinthians 1:31.

by Jay Mankus