(Ps. 32:8)
Another invaluable characteristic to help armorbearers develop longevity is teamwork. I want to share an analogy that the Holy Spirit quickened to me between an NFL football team and the operation of the local church. We will start with the coaches in the press box. It is their responsibility to choose the best plays to call, which they can do because they see the overall field and the way the opposing team is set up. Their job is to watch for any weaknesses, then quickly call plays to take advantage of them.
This could be compared to the Father and the Son of God, who sit in the press box and call the plays in our lives. They know the devil’s tactics as well as which plays will be most effective against them. Paul wrote that we should not let Satan take advantage of us, “for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Cor. 2:11).
There are three heavens in the universe. (2 Cor. 12:2.) The first heaven is over the physical earth; the second is the realm where Satan, demons, and angels dwell; and the third heaven is the “press box” where God’s throne is. The Bible makes it clear that Satan is the prince and power of the air. God looks down on the second heaven and sees clearly the strategies of the devil against the Church.
God then calls down to the Coach on the playing field—the Holy Spirit in our analogy—and communicates to Him what the devil is doing. With this information, our Coach can then let us know what plays to run.
The coaches in the press box record every play on video, so they can take a look at the last play while another play is being run on the field. That way they can analyze what the opposing team is setting up. Our Father has the ability to see past, present, and future. He knows the right play to call every time. It is up to us to listen to our Coach on the playing field.
Our Coaches in the press box are essential if we are to win the game!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers |
Terry has served as senior associate minister of a thriving congregation for over 23 years with over 40 years of experience in local church ministry. He is currently the senior pastor of Impact Church in Sherwood, Arkansas. Terry has authored four books. On the bestselling list, these books have motivated thousands of Christians to stand with their leaders in faithful service, helping them to fulfill God's purpose for their lives.
Terry is the Founder and President of Focus on the Harvest, Inc. He's traveled extensively, awakening believers to this strategic generation. Through his God-given passion, believers are ignited to discover their gifts and callings, commit to the vision of their local church, and focus on the harvest of souls throughout their city, state, nation, and world.
Terry holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Southwestern University, where he met his wife, Kim. They've been married for over 40 years and have three children; McCall, Alex, and McKenna.
In May 2008, Terry and Kim began Impact Church, a dynamic and growing, multicultural body of believers in Sherwood, AR. We believe that Christianity is not a religion; it's a relationship. God loves each person individually. He desires everyone to know him personally.