It’s the seventh inning, and all you baseball fans know what that means. It’s seventh inning stretch time. So… everybody stand up, walk around a little bit and STRETCH!!! How does that feel? Are you ready now for the rest of the game?
Baseball – give of yourself:
It does my heart good to hear about some of the off-field endeavors of many of the baseball players. They visit children who are in the hospital, raise money through various fund-raising ventures, and many other activities out of the goodness of their heart. I know of several players who have established foundations to help those who are in need.
Life – give of yourself:
In life, we are exhorted by the Word of God, remember that is the Bible, to help the less fortunate in our family, our city, our country and the world. We can help by donating our time and money to the outreach opportunities that are out there all around us. The Bible has a lot to say about being mission minded:
1 Timothy 5:8 (ESV)
8 But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
2 Corinthians 9:6-9 (ESV)
6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 9 As it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”
Matthew 6:19-21 (ESV)
19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Baseball – Strive to be a role model:
Many baseball players realize that they are a role model to others, especially to the children. It’s sad to say that not all players conduct themselves in a respectful manner; however, they are in the minority.
Life – Strive to be a role model:
You guessed it, the Bible has a lot say about the kind of life we should be living. People are watching and could be moved one way or the other by what they see in us. Let’s strive to be a positive influence.
Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Titus 2:7-8 (ESV)
7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, 8 and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.
1 Corinthians 11:1 (ESV)
1Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.