Each year the NBA Finals play out with some degree of drama. Sometimes teams get themselves into trouble early in the series, but with key adjustments momentum can shift and the same team can get themselves out of trouble, too.

Adjustments are crucial indeed. Being careful to not step on anyone else’s toes is one of them, but it can get us into trouble more than we think. Whenever we allow ourselves to become too self-conscious, snares are bound to follow. Concern for what others think of us is not nearly as important as what God thinks. That’s what today’s Scripture is all about.

We get out of trouble and are kept safe when we drop a “fear of man” and add “trust in the LORD.” When we become more completely careless of our standing before men, we avoid coming snares. And when trusting the LORD gets put into our starting lineup, it’s safe to say we’re headed for a life-win.

Athlete, how much does fear of man factor into your lineup decisions and daily interactions? Is self-consciousness getting too much playing time in your life? Is trust in the LORD getting enough? Those who trust in Him are kept safe, from without and from within.

Prayer to consider today: LORD, free us from fear of man and the burden of self-consciousness and hesitation it produces. Let us find safety and victory through trusting You. Transform and renew our minds (Romans 12:2). We know how to get into trouble. Thank you for showing us how to get out. For our joy and Your great glory. Amen.