God's Coaching #171

God's Coaching #171

Graeme McDowell didn’t wow PGA crowds with massive blasts from his driver or seemingly impossible saves from the woods. But his steady play and gritty attitude helped him win the 2010 US Open. Graeme, a native of Portrush, Northern Ireland, barely qualified for the Open and came to coastal California’s famed Pebble Beach Golf Links as the 37th-ranked player in the world. He had done well in Europe but had never won on the PGA Tour. That was about to change.

As the tournament progressed, Graeme faced several challenges. The leaderboard included some of the biggest names in golf, like former major winners Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, and Davis Love III. What’s more, no European had won America’s golf championship since 1970. Yet, one by one, all of Graeme’s challengers dropped off in the final round. Despite shooting a three-over-par 74, Graeme won by a stroke over Grégory Havret. It was the biggest victory of his career.

What’s the Score?

Graeme was a relative no-name who overcame great odds to score a huge victory. That’s kind of like Gideon in Judges 6. Gideon was an Israelite judge during one of the low points in the nation’s history. The people consistently turned to idol worship, so God disciplined them by allowing Canaanite armies to invade the land. The enemy during Gideon’s lifetime was Midian, a powerful eastern nation that was so oppressive, they forced many Israelites to hide in caves. To save his people, God didn’t select a mighty warrior. He chose Gideon, an unimportant man from a weak clan who was hiding from the Midianites when God called him.

But God did mighty things through Gideon. Before Gideon attacked Midian, God downsized his army from 32,000 men to 300 and commanded the tiny group to use only trumpets, empty jars, and torches as weapons. One by one, God removed all the challenges in front of Gideon. He gave Gideon a miraculous victory by routing the Midianites and bringing peace to Israel. God didn’t need Gideon to be powerful or have amazing skill; he just wanted somebody to faithfully follow him. Our responsibility is to “be strong and courageous,” as 1 Chronicles 22:13 implores us, and to trust God. He can use us in mighty ways if we have faith and don’t give up.

On the Ball

Looking for more stories about how godly men and women accomplished seemingly impossible things through faith in God? Read the stories of Joshua, Nehemiah, and Esther.

Coach’s Comment

Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or lose heart! 1 Chronicles 22:13