On November 26th, 2013 something unusual was caught on film during an NCAA college football game between the University of Florida and Georgia Southern. If it wasn’t bad enough losing to a I-AA football team, a replay revealed 2 Gator offensive lineman were actually blocking each other as if their eyes were closed on one play. When the national media got a hold of this clip, these 2 players were further embarrassed, weekly making ESPN’s Not Top 10 low lights. Blocking yourself or in this case you own teammate ranks up their with Mark Sanchez’s butt fumble, returned by the New England Patriots for a touchdown during the 2012 NFL regular season, a legendary not top 10 moment in sports.
In basketball, players are allowed to set picks, also known as screens to help others get open. As long as an individual has set their feet without moving, the play is legal. However, when someone get’s careless or sloppy with their body position, the play is deemed illegal as a foul is called resulting in a turnover or foul shots. Unfortunately, life is filled with examples of blocking yourself. The loud mouth often talks too much, ruining their reputation with uncalled for remarks. The gossiper can’t resist the temptation of distorting the truth, caught up in a web of lies that will one day explode in their face. Meanwhile, negative people will lose favor among co-workers, family and neighbors limiting their full potential on earth.
From a spiritual perspective, Christians and non-Christians alike regularly block God from pouring out his blessings. According to Jesus’ earthly brother, complaining, grumbling and impatience serve as a barrier between God and mankind, James 5:8-9. Furthermore, any unwholesome comment that comes out of your mouth grieves the Holy Spirit, Ephesians 4:29. Instead of blaming God for your misfortune, get out of the way or you will continue blocking yourself from obtaining God’s promises in the Bible, Jeremiah 29:10. Although its hard to admit, often I’m my worst enemy, getting in the Holy Spirit’s way with self conceit, Galatians 5:25-26. May this blog inspire you to reflect, pondering if anything is causing you to block yourself from God? Whenever something comes to mind, please leave a comment below to help others in life’s journey.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 