Many people look for good direction and good defense. We want to know where we’re headed when we jump out of a foxhole and we want to know that our back is covered when we do. We want to map our way to success and significance, and there find peace, prosperity and purpose. And we want to be protected from interruptions to this plan and onslaughts against this drive. We need a true source and a tough shield.

Athlete, the best source of direction by far is God’s Word. It is life’s superior road map. Study it with devotion and passion. Its every word is flawless. It offers ways out and ways up to everything pure and right. What He says sheds light on every subject. It fuels faith, furnishes hope and generates love to endure anything and crack everything.

The greatest shield of defense is God Himself. Take refuge in who He is. Take refuge in what He says. He delights to defend. He loves to play defense for His team to win. Those who run to Him for refuge always find it.

Prayer to consider today: LORD, help me to keep looking to Your flawless Word as my primary source of daily direction. Make me more sure of my way. Defend me when I make bold moves to live in obedience to Your way in this crazy world. Be my daily shield and refuge.