Game changers are ready

Game changers are always ready to walk through open doors or climb over massive obstacles. The Bible says we should “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2, NIV) 

Yesterday, I told you about my trip to the Churchill bunker where Churchill had led a nation through a historic crisis, World War II. I mentioned that I wept in front of a snapshot of an Allied boat being sunk by a Nazi submarine, just like my uncle’s had been. As I was weeping, someone tapped me on the shoulder. I was startled and caught off guard but managed to wipe my tears and compose myself as the leader of the tour leaned into my ear and whispered, “Paul, will you speak for a few moments at a VIP dinner down the hall?”

The Bible has taught me, “‘When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,’” (Luke 12:11, NIV). 

So I immediately said yes.

Do you say yes to open doors, opportunities, or invitations? 

I believe game changers say yes. They step up when others shrink back. They give when others withhold. They smile when others are frowning. They believe when others shrink back in self-doubt. 

There is an amazing story of foolish virgins who forgot to be ready: “‘At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. … The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight the cry rang out: “Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!” Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, “Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.” “No,” they replied, “there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.” But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.’” (Matthew 25:1, 3-10) I don’t want to be like these foolish people. I want to be ready to speak, pray, serve, and give. 

Do you remember the song “Centerfield” written by John Fogerty? “Oh put me in, coach, I’m ready to play today.” I love that song because it describes my life. I’m not the smartest or the best-looking or most gifted, but I’ll almost always say yes. 

Do you look for the courage to say yes or a list of excuses to say no?

Well, that day I said yes again and had the privilege of touching the lives of so many influential people in England. I did it in the memory of an uncle who said yes and a Savior who constantly says yes to us.

Do you know you are a miracle and that will help you be a Game Changer? Don’t forget you can order the e-book version or a hard copy of the book that’s changing lives around the world.