God's Coaching #120

God's Coaching #120

A zero on the scoreboard had never looked so imposing. Less than nine minutes into the 2010 NCAA women’s lacrosse championship game, the University of Maryland trailed Northwestern 6–0. This was uncharted territory for the Terrapins, who had dominated their competition virtually all season and lost only once in the previous 22 games. But Northwestern was not like any other team Maryland had faced. The Wildcats entered the championship game as the sport’s reigning dynasty with an eight-game winning streak and five straight NCAA titles to their credit.

So when the mighty Wildcats took a six-goal lead, the game appeared over. Except to Maryland. The Terrapins never gave up and eventually took a 10–8 lead that they would never relinquish in a shocking 13–11 victory. It was the Terrapins’ 11th national title but their first since 2001. Later that year, ESPN ranked Maryland’s comeback as the ninth-best women’s sports story of 2010. “After the 6–0 run, we never gave up,” Maryland’s Caitlyn McFadden, the game’s Most Outstanding Player, told reporters. “[After] each [Northwestern] goal, we came together and said [to] keep fighting and stay in it.”

What’s the Score?

Maryland enjoyed a lot of blowout wins in 2010, but it learned a vital lesson in the NCAA final against Northwestern: trouble is bound to come. The question is, what will you do when it happens? It’s a question everyone must answer in life, not just in sports. Ever since Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, trouble has been part of the daily human experience.

Sometimes trouble is as small as a stubbed toe or a lost toy. Other times, it’s as big as the death of a loved one. Trouble comes in all shapes and sizes. But it certainly will come. Fortunately, there is a God who wants to help. When trouble pelts us like an angry hailstorm, we can call out to him. Scripture says, “The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9). He might not always bring relief right away or answer your prayer exactly the way you want. But he knows what’s best for you and will help. Trouble is inevitable. But like the Terrapins, don’t give up when it knocks you down. Trust in God.

On the Ball

Keep a prayer journal, and write down every time you cry out to God for help. When he answers your prayer, record it as a testimony of his help in times of trouble.

Coach’s Comment

The LORD is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Psalm 9:9